The third-generation Apple Watch SE might be just a hair larger than the current model, as a new leak details two possible display sizes for the device.
Introduced in 2020, the Apple Watch SE is the budget-friendly member of Apple’s smartwatch lineup, primarily geared toward first-time buyers. With the SE, Apple delivers older technology in a relatively modern form factor, which allows for a lower price point.
In 2022, the Apple Watch SE gained the S8 chip and received a 30% larger display compared to its predecessor. Rumors suggest a new version of the SE will debut in 2025, and it looks like we’ll see larger screens on the SE once again.
As spotted by 9to5mac, analyst Ross Young of Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC) revealed that displays for the next-generation Apple Watch SE are already in production. In a subscriber-only X post, the analyst said the Apple Watch SE 3 would be available with displays measuring roughly 1.6 and 1.8 inches.
The current Apple Watch SE is available in 40 and 44mm sizes. The numbers provided by Young suggest that the 2025 variant of the SE might resemble the 41mm and 45mm size options of more recent models, such as the Apple Watch Series 6 through Apple Watch Series 9.
Slightly larger displays might allow for a more modern look, but they would also bring real-world benefits, particularly in the area of customization. The Apple Watch SE would, for instance, gain new watch faces thanks to its new display. Apple restricts the availability of certain watch faces, only offering them on Apple Watch models with larger screens.
The company tests and prepares hardware components well before a device is officially announced, so it makes sense that displays for the next-generation Apple Watch SE have reportedly entered production. The Apple Watch has been around for more than a decade, and the SE model will likely continue to evolve.
The source of this latest Apple Watch SE tidbit has a good track record, and a larger display would align with Apple’s prior moves. It’s a logical move for the budget-oriented SE, so this rumor has ultimately earned the “Likely” rating.