Next-generation Apple Watch SE to feature plastic chassis, says Gurman

Apple’s next-generation Apple Watch SE, which could launch as soon as next month, is expected to feature a chassis made from a hard plastic material, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in this week’s Power On newsletter.

According to Gurman, it is “sounding increasingly likely” that the upcoming Apple Watch SE models will use a rigid plastic material instead of the traditional aluminum. The shift to plastic aims to reduce manufacturing costs and appeal to parents seeking an affordable smartwatch for their children.

In July, Apple launched a new website promoting the purchase of cellular Apple Watches for children, highlighting benefits such as location tracking, options for calling parents, and activity tracking. Parents can set up watches for their kids using their own iPhones, and there are features designed to limit usage during school hours.

By using plastic, Apple could offer the Apple Watch SE in a range of vibrant colors not possible with aluminum. Historically, Apple used a similar approach with the iPhone 5c, which came in a variety of bright colors such as blue, yellow, pink, and green. This move would also help differentiate the Apple Watch SE from the standard Apple Watch models, as the current Apple Watch SE is essentially a modified version of the aluminum Apple Watch without the latest features.

The current Apple Watch SE models sell for $250. However, transitioning to plastic could allow Apple to offer the device at a lower price, making it more competitive with other affordable smartwatches on the market.