The Anticipated Upgrade: PlayStation 5 and Apple Watch SE 3
Around 10 years ago, I bought a PlayStation 4, right after the “slim” model was released. It was heavily discounted, came with a couple of years’ warranty, and included three of the most popular games of the PS4’s life cycle up to that point. It has served me well, running like a dream with no signs of slowing down. However, my interest has turned towards games like Baldur’s Gate 3 and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, which signals that it’s finally time to upgrade to a PlayStation 5.
As we find ourselves halfway through the lifecycle of the PS5, purchasing one now offers the same upgrade in quality that earlier adopters experienced, but at a much lower price. Gamers who traded in their PS5s for the Pro and Slim models released last year have the privilege of experiencing the pinnacle of console graphics, framerates, and processing power—features that dedicated gamers care deeply about.
Personally, I don’t need a Pro or Slim; just the standard model will suffice. I don’t mind playing on a slightly older machine if it means significantly improving from the one I currently own. I can imagine there are many gamers like me who have patiently awaited a price drop on the PS5, marking our moment to shine.
Connecting Two Worlds: Console Upgrades and Apple Watches
Why am I discussing gaming consoles when this article focuses on the best Apple Watches set to debut tomorrow? It’s because my interest in the upcoming Apple Watch SE 3, which is slated for release at this year’s September Apple event, rivals my excitement for the all-but-official Apple Watch Ultra 3.
(Image credit: Apple)
Every couple of years, Apple revisits the older components of the Apple Watch, assembling them like a modern-day Frankenstein watch. This results in an affordable, accessible smartwatch capable of running contemporary software, all cleverly wrapped in a cheaper casing—often featuring nylon instead of metal.
Anticipation builds as it’s rumored we will see an Apple Watch SE 3 released this week alongside the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Apple Watch Series 11. The initial Apple Watch SE launched in 2020, followed by the SE (2022) two years later. Fast forward three years, and it’s time for another upgrade, ideally incorporating parts from the Series 9 or Series 10 to ensure that the SE 3 is a robust, future-proof option at a more accessible price point.
Utilizing older components allows those in the SE line to experience considerable upgrades in quality without the hefty price tag, mirroring my own journey from the PS4 to the PS5. There are countless individuals who are in the market for a budget-friendly Apple Watch that still boasts the features of previous high-end models.
(Image credit: Future/PlayStation/Sony)
Intuitively, casual gamers like myself gain a significant leap in quality by awaiting better economic conditions for older models. Meanwhile, consumers purchasing the Apple Watch SE series tend to be casual fitness enthusiasts looking for essentials like a step counter and a robust gym companion. For this target audience, the SE 3’s reliance on older parts is of little consequence; the allure lies primarily in its lower price point.
Apple is known for discontinuing older models immediately upon the release of new devices. Unless they’re sourced from third-party sellers or refurbished, the SE series remains the singular route to obtain a new, relatively affordable smartwatch featuring older, less expensive components.
With the SE 3, customers can expect a significant upgrade from its predecessor while maintaining the pricing structure of around $249 / £259 / AU$399, according to industry rumors. While it may not represent the incremental updates anticipated from the Series 11 and Ultra 3, it promises a considerable enhancement in quality, especially with watchOS 26 introducing AI capabilities like the Workout Buddy to all compatible watches.
The crux of this discussion is that even though tech fans are eagerly awaiting the latest and greatest of the Apple Watch Ultra, it’s truly the more affordable SE 3 that is poised to embody widespread appeal. The SE series’ combination of accessibility and quality will likely make it a more common sight on everyday wrists compared to its pricier counterparts.
I’m anticipating the review of this watch for all those individuals who appreciate the advantage of upgrading, even if it means using slightly older technology to achieve a meaningful enhancement.
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Image Credit: www.techradar.com
