If you’ve been waiting for the Apple Watch SE 2, you may be wondering why you bother about it, because while there’s a good chance we’ll see the wearable at the iPhone 14 launch on September 7, it doesn’t sound like “I’ll be a lot of updates.
This is what Mark Gurman says – a journalist and a leak with Apple’s excellent information record. In its latest Power On Newsletter (opens in a new tab) for Bloomberg Gurman says Apple will unveil the Apple Watch SE 2 on September 7, but it will be almost identical to the original Apple Watch SE.
The design will apparently be the same, with the main improvement being the new chipset; transition from Apple’s own S5 to S8 silicon. It might sound like a leap, but the S6 and S7 chipsets were basically identical, so it’s more of a two-generation shift rather than three.
Even so, it can lead to a significant increase in power and performance, meaning it’s likely to be a worthwhile upgrade, although potentially not worth upgrading from the original Apple Watch SE. Given that the new model will likely cost more as well, there may even be an argument to buy the old model instead.
Of course, this is just speculation for now – there may be other improvements or a chipset change may prove transformative. So let’s tune in on September 7 and read our reviews of the new wearable to find out.
This isn’t the only Apple Watch news that Gurman provided, as it claims that unsurprisingly we’ll also see an Apple Watch 8 that day. Apparently that will also pack the S8 chipset – so the Apple Watch SE 2 won’t have a power lag.
But the Apple Watch 8 is reportedly set to include other improvements not expected in the SE 2. These include the body temperature sensor and “female health functions related to fertility.”
Finally, at the top of the range, it is said to be the Apple Watch Pro, which will apparently have the same features as the Apple Watch 8, but with a larger display, a larger battery, and a different design; including a durable titanium housing.
While it’s supposed to be the top model – with an expected cost of at least $ 900 (around £ 780 / AU $ 1,330) – it’s not just the price that can put people off. Gurman says its large size can also make it unattractive to some consumers, especially those with smaller wrists.
Analysis: Apple Watch for everyone
While the Apple Watch SE 2 sounds like a rather modest upgrade – and potentially disappointing to some potential buyers – that’s fine, as more than ever Apple looks ready to wear for just about any need or wish.
For those who just want a cheap way to get an Apple Watch, the Apple Watch SE 2 should do the trick, while most buyers may look for an Apple Watch 8 that has more upgrades.
Then, for those who want something truly top-notch or just want a bigger screen or a more durable design, there’s the Apple Watch Pro. So, with all of these options, arguably our guide to the best Apple Watches is in for some serious shake.