The Affordable Fitness Tracker: Apple Watch SE
In a market inundated with smart wearables, Apple’s latest offering, the Apple Watch SE, appears to have found its niche as a budget-friendly fitness tracker. For iPhone owners, particularly those who are budget-conscious, this device offers a comprehensive suite of features for a starting price of just $149, a $100 discount from the original price. The 40mm GPS-enabled configuration, available for purchase at Amazon and Walmart, provides an essential array of fitness tracking tools, including sleep quality, heart rate, and basic workout metrics monitoring.
Beyond these fundamental features, Apple has incorporated a number of additional capabilities into the Watch SE. These include fall detection and emergency calling, both of which enhance the device’s value as a safety tool. Furthermore, the Watch SE supports Apple Pay and Family Setup, two features that extend its functionality beyond a simple fitness tracker. Despite being an entry-level model, it houses the same processor as the Apple Watch Series 8 and the Watch Ultra, making it a competitive choice when compared to older models like the Series 6.
Compatibility and New Features
One of the standout features of the Watch SE is its compatibility with watchOS 11. This compatibility means users can leverage the new Vitals app, access new watch faces, and importantly, schedule rest days. While the Watch SE may not be as speedy as Apple’s latest wearables, this compatibility is a significant advantage over earlier models. The SE also borrows a few features from the Series 8, such as the same chipset and Crash Detection feature, marking it out as a subtle but significant upgrade from the last-gen SE.
However, potential buyers should be aware of some caveats. > ‘While the Apple Watch SE is a compelling option for a fitness tracker, consumers should consider their specific needs before purchase’, says tech analyst Sheena Vasani. ‘The device’s compatibility with watchOS 11 and its additional safety features make it a great choice for many, but it may not cater perfectly to all individual needs.’
Featured image credit: Harry Shelton on Pexels
