Apple Watch SE 3 arrives with advanced health, Always-On display, and fast charging

Apple has introduced the Apple Watch SE 3, offering a balance of performance, health insights, and affordability.

Powered by the S10 chip, the SE 3 delivers features previously reserved for higher-end models, making it an accessible option for users new to Apple Watch or looking for a value-focused device.

Always-On display, fast charging, and 5G connectivity

The S10 chip enables an Always-On display, allowing users to check the time and notifications without raising their wrist. The display uses a strengthened Ion-X glass that is four times more resistant to cracks than the previous generation.

Despite the addition of Always-On functionality, the SE 3 offers an all-day, 18-hour battery life and introduces fast charging for the first time: 15 minutes of charging provides up to eight hours of use, while a full charge to 80% takes approximately 45 minutes.

5G cellular capability is included, offering faster downloads for apps, music, and podcasts, with a more efficient modem to preserve battery life.

Expanded health features

Just like the Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch SE 3 includes sleep score, sleep apnea notifications, retrospective ovulation estimates, and wrist temperature sensing, adding to its core health capabilities like heart health notifications, Cycle Tracking, and cardio fitness.

Sleep score provides a breakdown of sleep quality based on duration, consistency, stages, and other factors, giving users actionable insights. Sleep apnea notifications alert users to consistent signs of moderate to severe apnea over a 30-day period, while retrospective ovulation estimates and wrist temperature tracking support reproductive and overall wellness monitoring.

Fitness and motivation

With watchOS 26, SE 3 introduces Workout Buddy, powered by Apple Intelligence, providing spoken motivation and personalized insights during workouts. Users can customize workouts with Workout Views, Pacer, Race Route, and music or podcast integration.

The Activity app continues to track Move, Exercise, and Stand rings, alongside weekly summaries and trends.

S10 chip benefits and gestures

The S10 chip enhances on-device Siri for faster, private responses, and supports one-handed gestures including double tap and wrist flick for managing notifications and actions. The watch can play music and podcasts directly through its speaker, and Voice Isolation improves call clarity in noisy environments.

Apple Watch For Your Kids

SE 3 can also be configured for Apple Watch For Your Kids, enabling communication, fitness tracking, and safety features without requiring a separate iPhone.

Kids can make calls, send messages, use Emergency SOS, and enjoy independent features like Maps, Siri, and App Store access while parents maintain oversight.

Design, lineup, and sustainability

The Apple Watch SE 3 comes in 40mm and 44mm aluminum cases in midnight and starlight finishes.

Like other Apple Watches, it is made with 40% recycled content and manufactured with 100% renewable electricity, aligning with Apple 2030 goals for carbon neutrality. Packaging is fully recyclable.

Availability and pricing

Apple Watch SE 3 is available for pre-order now and will ship starting September 19. Pricing starts at $249 (U.S.). watchOS 26 will roll out to Series 6 and later, SE (2nd generation) and later, and all Apple Watch Ultra models on September 15.

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