Apple’s rumored attempt to launch a lower-cost Apple Watch SE made from plastic has reportedly been put on hold. According to new reports, the project has run into unexpected challenges around cost and design, raising doubts about whether it will move forward anytime soon.
The concept was straightforward: a more affordable version of the Apple Watch designed with children in mind. Instead of aluminum, the casing would use hard plastic, making the device durable, lightweight, and cheaper to produce. Parents could then buy a smartwatch for their kids with essential functions like location tracking, without paying full price for a premium model.
But when Apple began developing prototypes, the numbers didn’t add up. The manufacturing cost of the plastic model came out surprisingly close to the existing aluminum-and-nylon SE, which already sells for $249. In other words, switching to plastic didn’t meaningfully cut costs.
Design concerns added another layer of difficulty. Apple’s design team reportedly wasn’t satisfied with the look of the prototype, saying it didn’t meet the company’s standards. Efforts to use recycled or eco-friendly materials further complicated the process, as Apple continues to push toward eliminating traditional plastics from its product line.
While Apple hasn’t officially scrapped the idea, industry insiders believe the project is unlikely to see a release in 2025. This could also affect earlier predictions from analysts who expected a new SE model to launch alongside the third-generation Apple Watch Ultra later this year.
For now, the idea of a kid-focused, budget Apple Watch remains uncertain. Parents hoping for a cheaper option may need to wait until Apple finds a way to balance affordability, durability, and its commitment to design and sustainability.