Apple has reportedly reversed its decision to use plastic in the production of the next-generation Apple Watch SE, following public backlash and criticism of the cost-cutting move. The company had initially considered switching to plastic in an effort to reduce manufacturing costs for its budget-friendly smartwatch, but it seems that those plans are now off the table.
The rumors of Apple’s pivot to plastic materials first surfaced last year, fueling speculation that the company was exploring ways to make the Apple Watch SE even more affordable. The strategy would have followed a similar path to the iPhone 5C, which debuted a plastic body to offer a lower-priced alternative to the flagship iPhone models. However, that move received mixed reviews, and it seems Apple has learned from its past experience with plastic-bodied devices.
The latest report from 9to5Mac reveals that Apple has now abandoned the idea of using plastic for the Watch SE. Instead of opting for hard plastic as the body material, which would have replaced the usual aluminum chassis, the company is reportedly sticking with its existing design choices for the time being. This decision aligns with Apple’s long-standing strategy of using premium materials like aluminum, even in its more budget-conscious models.
While the company’s decision to stick with aluminum may not drastically change the cost of production for the Apple Watch SE, it does maintain the quality and aesthetic appeal that users have come to expect from Apple. The current Apple Watch SE, which starts at $249, already offers a more affordable option for customers looking for a budget smartwatch with the performance and features of newer models.
The Apple Watch SE has always been positioned as a more affordable alternative to the premium Apple Watch models, offering a similar performance experience at a lower price point. In its previous generations, the SE series has used the same materials as more expensive models while featuring the same chipset as the latest-generation devices.
It’s still unclear whether Apple will make any significant changes to the materials used in future Apple Watch SE models, such as considering cheaper metals for the body. While the company has yet to confirm any of the new rumors, it appears that the focus will remain on delivering a high-quality product that balances cost with performance.
Apple’s history with budget-friendly products dates back over a decade, when the company introduced the iPhone 5C as a way to offer a plastic-bodied, lower-cost option in the smartphone market. Although the 5C was met with some criticism, it paved the way for future SE-branded products, both in the iPhone and Apple Watch lines. The “SE” branding has since become synonymous with more affordable yet powerful devices, and it remains to be seen whether the name will continue with the next iteration of the Apple Watch SE.
As the tech giant continues to refine its product lineup, it remains clear that Apple is focused on maintaining the quality and premium feel that sets its wearables apart from the competition, even in the more budget-conscious segments.