Apple Watch getting cheapest ever model? This is how it could kill budget smartwatches

Apple Watch lineup may get a new entry-level model this year that is cheaper than the Apple Watch SE. Here are all the details.

Apple Watch cheaper than Apple Watch SE expected to launch soon. (Amritanshu / HT Tech)

The Apple Watch SE is currently the most affordable Apple Watch you can buy today but it is clearly pricier when compared to Samsung's Galaxy Watch 5 and Watch 4 series. Plus, there is an emerging number of smartwatch options available in the sub- ₹20,000 space where Apple has no presence at the moment. It seems Apple now wants to have something here by announcing a new smartwatch at the September 7 launch event. An Apple Watch cheaper than the Apple Watch SE!

Based on a report from The New York Times, it is said that sources close to Apple have confirmed Apple planning to launch a new affordable version of the Apple Watch. The reports claims this watch will be cheaper than the Apple Watch SE and will help Apple “compete more aggressively for young smart watch customers.” This Apple Watch could be focused more towards kids where parents control the device and use it as the first step towards a smartwatch.

Cheaper Apple Watch coming this year

“The model will be introduced alongside other new versions of the watch, including a high-end wearable for serious athletes that will rival fitness trackers made by its competitor Garmin,” the report says,” says the report. Hence, the Apple Watch Series 8, which is expected to remain the same as the Series 7, will be accompanied by this rumoured athlete focused Apple Watch Pro and the more affordable Apple Watch.

Currently, Apple sells an Apple Watch that costs ₹20,900 for the base variant. Wonder which one? It is the ancient Apple Watch Series 3 that has been going on for years as the cheapest Apple Watch you can buy. With the watchOS 9 update scheduled to arrive soon, the Watch Series 3 will be left out this year.

While the details are yet to emerge on this cheapest Apple Watch, there is a possibility that Apple could simply repurpose the Series 3 with a new chipset to keep the costs low. Apple has been doing the same with its iPhone SE lineup as well as the base iPad for years. The Series 3 with its thick bezels may look old but still stands out as an Apple Watch.

On the other hand, there is a possibility of the Apple Watch SE getting an update with a new chipset and some health tracking features, and Apple could be dropping the price of the old Watch SE, just like its AirPods 2nd Gen. We need to wait and watch now.