Apple is reportedly facing significant hurdles in the development of its next-generation Apple Watch SE, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. The tech giant is exploring a redesigned version of the budget-friendly smartwatch featuring a plastic body instead of the traditional aluminum chassis. However, internal concerns from both Apple’s design and operations teams have put the model’s future in jeopardy.
In the latest edition of the Power On newsletter, Gurman reports that Apple’s design team is dissatisfied with the aesthetic appeal of the plastic-bodied Apple Watch SE. Meanwhile, the operations team has determined that the cost savings from using plastic are minimal compared to aluminum, thereby undermining the financial rationale behind the switch. If Apple is unable to achieve meaningful cost reductions, the new model’s budget-friendly positioning may not be justifiable, potentially leading to the project’s cancellation.
The second-generation Apple Watch SE, launched in 2022, remains Apple’s most affordable smartwatch, offering a premium feel with its aluminum construction. While a plastic-bodied version could help Apple tap into a broader audience in the lower-end market, Gurman suggests that the project is now in “serious jeopardy” and may be scrapped entirely.
Obstacles in Blood Pressure Monitoring Feature Development
In addition to the Apple Watch SE’s uncertain future, Apple is encountering challenges in developing a blood pressure monitoring feature for its premium smartwatches. This feature, intended for the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Apple Watch Series 11, remains in testing, with unresolved issues potentially related to accuracy, battery life, or false readings. These technical difficulties may result in delays, affecting Apple’s ability to introduce the feature as planned in September 2025 alongside the iPhone 17 series.
Promising Advancements in Apple’s Smartwatch Lineup
Despite these setbacks, Apple continues to innovate in its smartwatch division. The upcoming Apple Watch Ultra 3 is expected to introduce advanced connectivity features, including satellite texting and Reduced Capacity 5G (5G RedCap). These enhancements will improve cellular performance, particularly for users in remote locations who rely on independent connectivity without an iPhone. Such advancements could bolster the Ultra 3’s appeal to outdoor enthusiasts and professionals seeking reliable communication capabilities.
Market Challenges and Strategic Adjustments
Apple’s smartwatch business faces a challenging period, with reports indicating a decline in Apple Watch shipments in 2024. This contraction in the global smartwatch market represents an unprecedented shift for the company, emphasizing the need for strategic adjustments to reignite consumer interest. With less than six months remaining until the anticipated September 2025 launch, Apple must address these developmental challenges to maintain its competitive edge and drive sales in the wearable technology sector.
As the company navigates these obstacles, the outcome of the Apple Watch SE redesign and the success of the blood pressure monitoring feature will play a crucial role in shaping Apple’s smartwatch strategy moving forward.
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