New Apple Watch SE announced with S8 chip, Crash Detection, International Roaming and more

Apple today announced the second-generation Apple Watch SE with the S8 SiP advanced dual-core processor, Crash Detection, International Roaming, and more.

Apple Watch SE 2, Far Out event

Apple debuts second-generation budget-friendly Apple Watch SE

Features

Similar to its predecessor, the new Apple Watch SE delivers at a budget-friendly price point. It is also touted as a “great way for users to start their Apple Watch journey, use with Family Setup, or gift to their loved ones.”

Powerful upgrades include the S8 SiP advanced dual-core processor, the same processor that is in Apple Watch Series 8 and Apple Watch Ultra, making it 20 percent faster than the previous generation, along with Crash Detection and international roaming.

The watch will also support international roaming by pairing with an iPhone’s roaming plan. In addition to this, Apple Watch SE users can enjoy the benefits of the new Compass app in addition to enhanced fitness and wellness.

apple watch se 2, far out event

Crash Detection

This year, Apple added Crash Detection to all of its new Apple Watches. Crash Detection uses Apple’s advanced sensor-fusion algorithm as well as a more powerful gyroscope and accelerometer on Apple Watch to detect a crash.

To create the algorithm, data was collected from these new motion sensors at professional crash test labs with common passenger cars in simulated real-world accidents, including head-on, rear-end, side-impact, and rollovers. In addition to motion data, Crash Detection uses the barometer, GPS, and the microphone on iPhone as inputs to detect the unique patterns that can indicate whether a severe crash has taken place.

If a severe watch detects a crash crash, it will display the emergency services call interface to users. If users are unresponsive after a 10-second countdown, the watch will contact emergency responders automatically.

Design

While the new Apple Watch SE features the same case design as the previous generation, it does come with a redesigned matching back case made of a nylon composite material.

Sizes and Finishes

The new Apple Watch SE is available in 40mm and 44mm aluminum cases, in midnight, starlight, and silver finishes, and is compatible with all bands.

apple watch se 2, far out event

Price and Availability

The new watch offers the core Apple Watch experience at a more affordable price. The second-generation Apple Watch SE GPS model is available for pre-order on apple.com and the Apple Store app. The standard model starts at $249, and the cellular model starts at $299, a $30 price drop from the original SE. In-store availability will start on September 16.

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About the Author

Usman has been playing games for as long as he can remember. He is an editor at iThinkDifferent and writes about games, Apple news, hardware, productivity guides, and more. When not writing for iTD, Usman loves to play competitive Team Fortress 2, spends time honing his football skills, and watches superhero movies.