Production Challenges Reported for New Plastic Apple Watch

Speculations surrounding a new Apple Watch crafted entirely from plastic have circulated since last year. However, recent reports suggest that its development may be facing significant delays or may even be halted altogether.

Mark Gurman, a well-known analyst, noted in a recent newsletter that the anticipated plastic version of the Apple Watch SE is in jeopardy. This uncertainty arises from dissatisfaction within the design team regarding the aesthetic appeal of the new model. Moreover, production issues have surfaced, indicating that creating a plastic casing may not lead to the anticipated cost reductions. Apple's operations team has reportedly discovered that manufacturing the plastic version does not yield substantial savings compared to the existing aluminum models used in their more affordable smartwatches.

The introduction of a plastic Apple Watch could have provided a unique entry-level option, distinguishing it further from the current offerings, including the standard Series 10, the premium Hermès edition, and the Apple Watch Ultra 2. If successful, the plastic model could have been produced in a variety of vibrant colors, appealing to a broader audience.

Historically, Apple's use of plastic in its products has varied over the years. Iconic models such as the iBook and the original MacBook featured a distinctive white plastic design. The iPhone 5c, which was launched in an array of colors, experienced mixed reviews despite Apple's marketing efforts. Currently, Apple primarily opts for aluminum and stainless steel in its iPhone lineup, and the Apple Watch is available in aluminum, steel, titanium, and previously included ceramic and gold options.

As anticipation builds for the next generation of Apple Watches, expected to debut in September, consumers are eager for potential enhancements. Among the rumored features is the ability to monitor blood pressure, an effort that Apple has pursued for several years but has encountered challenges. Additionally, enthusiasts of the Apple Watch Ultra are hoping for a new iteration, as the previous Ultra 2 model was mostly a cosmetic update with a new color option.

Reports also suggest that the upcoming Apple Watch may introduce 5G support, albeit with limited data speeds, along with satellite communication capabilities.