Apple’s Watch Shake-up: A Subtraction
Apple’s latest moves regarding its Watch line have sparked interest, but they involve a notable absence—there will be no budget-friendly model this year.
The Details:
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is in the final stages of testing three new Apple Watch models: the Series 12 (in Wi-Fi and cellular versions) and the Ultra 4. Notably, there’s no mention of an SE model, which has been a key entry point for Apple Watches at competitive prices.
The Implications:
- No Budget Option: The absence of an SE model means Apple is stepping away from the budget end of the market just as Google releases its $99 Fitbit Air.
- Internal Upgrades: The new models will feature a chip upgrade, ending a three-year performance freeze, along with enhancements in health and fitness tracking.
- Future Plans: A more significant redesign is in the works but isn’t expected for another year or two.
Analysis:
- Holding Year: 2026 appears to be a holding year with minimal changes, dressed up as a new launch. The core design has been unchanged for five years, and the SE’s absence could be a strategic move.
- Competition: With rivals like Whoop, Oura, and Google’s screenless bands gaining traction, Apple faces increasing competition in health tracking, an area where affordable options are valuable.
- Price Gap: Dropping the SE creates a gap at a critical time when competitors are offering compelling, low-cost health trackers.
- Internal Competition: Even within Apple’s own product line, the AirPods Pro 3 has shown that earbuds can provide accurate heart rate monitoring, potentially reducing the need for wrist-based devices.
The Bigger Picture:
September is expected to bring a significant Apple event, featuring the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, along with what could be Apple’s first foldable phone. Price increases are also anticipated across the iPhone range due to supply chain challenges.