The Apple Watch 3, or Apple Watch Series 3 as it’s formally called, is an updated version of the Apple Watch Series 2 that debuted in 2016. Apple announced the Apple Watch Series 3 in the fall of 2017, with official availability for the wearable computing device starting September 22, 2017.
Improvements in the Apple Watch 3 Over Earlier Versions
The biggest change in the Apple Watch Series 3 over previous releases is the optional addition of a LTE radio for cellular support, which provides more of an “untethered experience,” meaning you can tap into additional cellular-dependent integrated functionality without needing your smartphone with you, such as sending and receiving calls and text messages.
Other new features in the Apple Watch 3 include an improved, dual-core S3 chipset for better performance, support for Apple’s new WatchOS 4, a larger battery for improved battery life, and twice as much storage space (from 8GB to 16GB).
Some of the features that carry over from the Apple Watch Series 2 include built-in GPS support, water resistance at up to 50 meters, and a 390×312 OLED screen protected by a plate of Ion-X glass.
Apple Watch Series 3 Pricing
The Apple Watch Series 3 is available for $399 with cellular support or $329 for the version without cellular support. A red dot on the rotating crown distinguishes the cellular version from the non-cellular version.
In addition to the higher $70 price tag, customers of the cellular version will need to sign up for a $10/month cellular plan in order to take advantage of the Watch 3’s cellular capabilities.
With the Apple Watch Series 3’s release, Apple discontinued the Apple Watch Series 2, but the Apple Watch Series 1 will remain available for purchase at $249.
