Notebookcheck Logo

Upcoming Apple Watch SE will likely feature a plastic case, reiterates prominent tipster

The next Apple Watch SE might be the Apple Watch's iPhone 5c moment. (Image source: Apple)
The next Apple Watch SE might be the Apple Watch's iPhone 5c moment. (Image source: Apple)
Apple is widely expected to introduce a new Apple Watch SE next month, alongside the iPhone 16 lineup. Reports have also indicated a shift to a 'rigid-plastic case', likely allowing for a lower price and more color options. If true, this will position the upcoming Watch SE as an excellent option for the younger demographic, especially children.

Last month, seasoned analyst Mark Gurman revealed that the next-generation Apple Watch SE, which may launch as early as this year, might feature a 'rigid plastic' case, foregoing the aluminum case that has adorned the Apple Watch since its inception in 2015. Now, he has reiterated his claims, adding further weight to the possibility.

If true, this would be Apple's first standalone product with a plastic case since the iPhone 5c which hit the market over a decade ago in 2013 to mostly mixed reviews. Some reviewers praised the device's playful appearance and youthful color options, while others balked at its relatively expensive pricing despite being marketed as a budget option with unimpressive specifications. 

It is unclear at this moment how Apple plans on positioning the upcoming Watch SE. It is only fair to expect a reduction in price given the plastic casing downgrade, but echoing the iPhone 5c's less-than-stellar specs might be a tough sell. However, Apple may conceivably target the future Watch SE specifically towards children, which could justify a feature reduction in favor of a price drop. 

It is also entirely possible that Apple may offer the rumored plastic Watch SE in a broader array of colors than seen in the Watch lineup, taking a leaf out of the iMac, iPhone 5c, and iPod handbook. If Apple manages to spec the product decently and offer it in a vibrant palette of colors at a justified price, the Watch SE might just turn out to be the most popular Apple Watch ever.

The new Apple Watch SE is anticipated to be launched next month, along with the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro. Visit our detailed Leak Lounge roundup to know more about the latter.

Buy the Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS, 45 mm) on Amazon for $329

Source(s)

static version load dynamic
Loading Comments
Comment on this article
Please share our article, every link counts!
Mail Logo
> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > News > News Archive > Newsarchive 2024 08 > Upcoming Apple Watch SE will likely feature a plastic case, reiterates prominent tipster
Sambit Saha, 2024-08- 6 (Update: 2024-08-17)