Apple Watch Ultra Takes the Spotlight Over the “Budget” SE
Just when you thought the Apple Watch lineup was all just one big family, a fresh report from Consumer Intelligence Research Partners flips the script. The Ultra models are not just upping the ante – they’re stealing the show from the classic SE versions.
Why the Ultra is the Meal of the Month
- Series 9 remains the tastiest option, capturing roughly 43% of all U.S. Apple Watch sales this June.
- Series 8 follows up with a solid 19% share.
- Ultra 2 and the Ultra together account for about 20% of purchases.
The numbers aren’t just a win for the Ultra line; they’re also a wake‑up call that the “premium” watches are beating the “budget” ones. Even with a combined 40%+ market share, the Ultra family still trails behind Apple’s high‑end giants like the iPad and iPhone, reminding us that the Ultra is a specialty sub‑category, not the broad spectrum filler.
What This Means for 2025
Apple’s marketing crew is probably already buzzing about the Ultra’s newfound popularity. For consumers, it signals that the next time you’re eyeing a smartwatch, the Ultra might just have that extra edge you’re craving — no other Apple series will quite match its punch.
Meet the Apple Watch SE: The Wallet‑Friendly Champion
When Apple pulls the curtain on its smartwatch lineup, the Apple Watch SE takes center stage for 12% of the market share—a pretty cool chunk for a device that’s aimed squarely at the budget‑savvy crowd.
Why Ordinary Buyers Love It
- Price vs. Performance – It delivers the essential Apple magic without the hefty price tag.
- Features that Matter – Heart‑rate monitoring, notifications, and fitness tracking, all wrapped up in a sleek package.
- Upgrade Ready – Designed to grow with you, so you can always step up to the Ultra later—no one‑size‑fits‑all mishaps.
Apple’s Product Range Game Plan
Apple’s knack for offering a spectrum of options isn’t limited to iPhones or iPads—this smartwatch strategy reflects the same philosophy. The SE acts like a stepping‑stone, inviting casual users and tech‑afficionados alike to dip their toes in the ecosystem without breaking the bank.
What It Means for the Future
By keeping the SE in the mix, Apple ensures that everyone—whether a bargain hunter or a high‑end enthusiast—has a reason to feel they’re part of the Apple universe.
