Apple’s affordable Watch SE lineup appears to be on the brink of a major refresh, according to a new report. The last model in the SE series was launched in 2022, following the debut of the original in 2020. Now, new information suggests that Apple is preparing to introduce larger displays and bigger case sizes for the next-generation Watch SE. This would mark one of the most notable upgrades for the budget-friendly wearable, which traditionally maintained a more compact and conservative design compared to Apple’s flagship models.
The latest update comes via analyst Ross Young, Vice President at Counterpoint Research, who shared insights into the upcoming SE model’s screen specifications. In a note reported by 9to5Mac, Young claims the next Apple Watch SE is already in production—indicating that an official launch may be just around the corner. According to the analyst, the refreshed SE models will feature 1.6-inch and 1.8-inch displays, slightly larger than the current 1.57-inch and 1.78-inch offerings. This aligns with rumors suggesting Apple may shift the SE to match the 41mm and 45mm case sizes found in previous-generation flagship models.
The current Watch SE (2022) already received a performance bump by adopting the Apple S8 SiP, the same chip used in the Series 8. That move helped close the performance gap between the SE and standard Apple Watch models, making the lower-cost model even more appealing. Now, with larger displays and potentially larger casings on the horizon, Apple seems poised to further enhance the SE’s value while maintaining a clear distinction between its budget and premium devices.
Interestingly, this display and size shift for the Watch SE appears to be part of a broader product segmentation strategy. With the Apple Watch Series 10 adopting new 42mm and 46mm sizes and pushing display boundaries—featuring even larger panels than the Watch Ultra 2—Apple may be repositioning the SE series to inherit the older flagship dimensions. This could serve to extend the lifespan of previous designs, while giving users more affordable access to larger and more immersive displays without encroaching on the top-tier lineup.