Apple has announced an updated Apple Watch SE 2 at its ‘Far Out’ September event. Though it’s not as huge of an upgrade as the Apple Watch Series 8 or Apple Watch Ultra, there are still some nice improvements to the Apple Watch SE 2 over the previous iteration.
This also continues to be Apple’s best Apple Watch for those on a budget, as it is the most affordable. Here are all of the details of the new Apple Watch SE 2.
Apple Watch SE 2: Design
With Apple announcing the Apple Watch Ultra, designed for rugged outdoor use, the design hasn’t changed much on the new SE. It again comes in the silver, Starlight, and Midnight options; this time, the back of the case now matches whichever color you choose. It also brings a 30% larger display than the Apple Watch Series 3 and plenty of new watch faces.
As for the materials used, it’s made out of 100% recycled aluminum, while the back is made out of nylon composite materials. While many would argue that the best Apple Watch material is stainless steel, that’s simply out of scope for a budget Apple Watch like this.
Apple Watch SE 2: Processor
Apple has bumped up the processor for the Apple Watch SE 2. It now has an updated S8 SiP processor, so it’s 20% faster than its predecessor. The S8 is the same chip that is in the new Apple Watch Series 8.
Apple Watch SE 2: Features
The Apple Watch SE 2 does not add new features that weren’t already available in the first generation. For example, you will not have ECG or blood oxygen, but the SE 2 still retains the heart rate sensor, which has proven helpful in detecting health conditions.
However, the Apple Watch SE 2 will also have the new Crash Detection feature, which is debuting on the Apple Watch Series 8. With Crash Detection, the Apple Watch can use its sensors to detect if you are involved in a crash while on the road. Crash Detection works in pretty much any vehicle, including family sedans.
Apple Watch SE 2 still supports Family Setup and will be able to handle watchOS 9 when it comes out next week. watchOS 9 will also bring the Compass app to the Apple Watch SE 2, including other improvements to fitness and wellness features, excluding the ones that require specific sensors only found on higher-end Apple Watch models.
Apple Watch SE 2: Price and availability
The Apple Watch SE 2 starts at $249 for the GPS-only version and $299 for Cellular + GPS. You can now order and receive the Apple Watch SE 2.