At Apple’s “It’s Glowtime” event on September 9, many new products were unveiled, but the rumored Apple Watch SE with a plastic shell was noticeably missing. Despite its absence, this doesn’t mean the model has been scrapped. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, who initially reported that Apple was developing a more affordable version of the SE with a plastic body, the project is still underway. Sources close to Gurman suggest that this budget-friendly variant could be introduced as soon as next year.
The Apple Watch SE was last refreshed in 2022 with the release of its second generation, and this rumored plastic model is expected to further broaden the appeal of the SE line. Along with the plastic casing, reports indicate that Apple intends to offer the new SE in a variety of bold, playful colors designed to attract a younger audience, particularly children. However, production issues seem to have delayed the release of this model, explaining its absence from the September event.
During the event, the spotlight was primarily on the Apple Watch Series 10, which was presented with a more streamlined design and a larger, more advanced display. The Series 10’s most prominent feature is its bright, wide-angle OLED display, which has been recognized as a substantial improvement over its predecessors. In a hands-on review, Engadget’s Billy Steele highlighted the Series 10’s display as a “massive upgrade,” enhancing the user experience with its vibrant visuals.
Although the plastic Apple Watch SE didn’t make an appearance at the “It’s Glowtime” event, it seems Apple hasn’t abandoned the idea. If manufacturing hurdles are overcome, the plastic SE could become part of Apple’s 2024 lineup, offering a more affordable option for those seeking a budget-conscious smartwatch. With its kid-friendly design and vibrant color options, the plastic SE is likely to appeal to families and younger users who are looking for a more accessible Apple Watch model.