Apple Watch SE Update May Include All-Plastic Chassis, Design Team Unhappy with Appearance Due to Budget Materials

Apple has traditionally steered clear of plastic in its product designs, predominantly due to the material’s limitations in durability and aesthetics compared to aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium alloys. The only scenarios in which Apple has considered plastic tend to involve cost-cutting measures during manufacturing. Recent reports indicate that the California-based tech giant may be reconsidering this stance for the upcoming Apple Watch SE, causing discontent among the design team regarding the decision to utilize plastic for the watch’s chassis.

Implications of a Plastic Apple Watch SE: Design Team Concerns

The current plastic model of the Apple Watch SE is priced comparably to its metal counterparts, which has raised concerns within the design team. In a recent entry in Bloomberg’s ‘Power On’ newsletter, tech analyst Mark Gurman suggested that creating a more budget-friendly version of the Apple Watch SE could necessitate a shift to plastic as a primary material. Insights from AppleInsider highlight the team’s frustration with both the aesthetic limitations and the quality concerns associated with this shift.

Despite the proposed plastic variant costing nearly the same as its metal equivalent, the design team is reportedly dissatisfied with the potential impact on the smartwatch’s appearance. Unfortunately, the drive to lower prices may leave little room for alternative materials, especially as the higher-end Apple Watch models have witnessed a recent decline in shipment volumes. This drop can largely be attributed to a lack of significant enhancements in newer models, as Apple has routinely maintained the same features without substantial improvements in battery life.

On a brighter note, Apple may be eyeing opportunities within the lower-end market. The success of the Apple Watch SE hinges on its affordability, and with the device’s compact design, finding ways to cut component costs effectively is limited. The consideration of a plastic chassis may be one of the last remaining options for Apple as it seeks to remain competitive. Industry watchers will need to stay tuned for an official announcement regarding the updated Apple Watch SE, anticipated later this year.

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