Apple Retires Older Watch Models to Spotlight SE 3, Series 11, and Ultra 3

Apple’s latest event was full of big reveals, but one of the most significant shake-ups in its wearable lineup came quietly: the company has decided to retire three of its older smartwatch models. The Apple Watch SE 2, Series 10, and Ultra 2 have now been discontinued, making way for the brand-new Apple Watch SE 3, Series 11, and Ultra 3. For loyal Apple Watch users, this marks the end of an era while simultaneously opening the door to fresh innovations that highlight just how quickly Apple pushes its wearable technology forward.

The highlight of this transition is Apple’s focused approach to refining performance, design, and health-tracking capabilities. The new Series 11 introduces cutting-edge health features, a refined display, and upgraded internals, while the Ultra 3 enhances ruggedness, durability, and outdoor usability.

The SE 3 keeps Apple’s budget-friendly smartwatch alive but with meaningful upgrades that bring it closer to the flagship experience. Yet, as Apple moves ahead, many users are pausing to reflect on what made the outgoing models special.

The Apple Watch SE 2, launched in September 2022, was a game-changer for entry-level smartwatch buyers. Equipped with the S8 chip, it delivered strong performance at a price that undercut its more premium siblings, and it even came with a nylon composite case back that balanced durability and comfort. Its successor, the SE 3, brings the more advanced S10 chip, better battery efficiency, and expanded functionality. These upgrades, however, mean that the SE 2 is officially no longer part of Apple’s lineup, a bittersweet farewell for many who saw it as the perfect balance between cost and performance.

The Apple Watch Ultra 2, unveiled in September 2023, was crafted for athletes, explorers, and outdoor enthusiasts. With a rugged design, enhanced outdoor visibility, and a strikingly bright display, it became a favorite for those who wanted a smartwatch that could handle harsh environments. It also introduced the Double Tap gesture control, adding a level of convenience that made everyday interactions smoother. Now, the Ultra 3 raises the bar once again with even better performance and durability, effectively retiring the Ultra 2 after just a year on the market.

Meanwhile, the Apple Watch Series 10 also bows out. It arrived with a slimmer chassis and a bold new design in September 2023, but Apple’s product strategy is always about looking ahead. The Series 11 now carries the mantle, offering improved health tracking and refined design cues, making the Series 10 a short-lived but memorable part of Apple’s history.

For longtime Apple watchers, this move is hardly surprising. Apple has consistently streamlined its product lineup to keep consumer attention on the most advanced devices while avoiding overlap between older and newer models. The discontinuation of these three watches signals a clear message: Apple is betting big on its new generation of wearables to define the future of digital health and lifestyle technology.

All three new models – the Apple Watch SE 3, Series 11, and Ultra 3 – are already available for pre-order, bringing fresh choices for buyers at every budget level. Whether you’re looking for affordability, sleek everyday functionality, or professional-grade ruggedness, Apple’s refreshed lineup is designed to cover it all. Still, for those who owned and loved the discontinued models, their contributions to the smartwatch market won’t be forgotten.