AllYouCanTech

# Apple Watch SE 3 vs Apple Watch Series 11: A Detailed Comparison

This year, Apple refreshed its complete range of Apple Watch models, unveiling the Apple Watch SE 3, Apple Watch Series 11, and Apple Ultra 3. Here’s what you should know about how the Apple Watch SE 3 stacks up against the Apple Watch Series 11.

## Apple Watch SE 3

The [Apple Watch SE 3](https://geni.us/ejdbn) is Apple’s most budget-friendly Apple Watch variant. It has undergone major enhancements this year, incorporating features like an Always-On display, notifications for sleep apnea, temperature sensing, and new interactive wrist flick and double-tap gestures. It operates on the same S10 chip that powers the Apple Watch Series 11.

The design remains similar to earlier models, offered in 40mm and 44mm sizes with an aluminum frame. Battery life is estimated at up to 18 hours, extendable to 32 hours in Low Power Mode. Moreover, the Apple Watch SE 3 is compatible with fast charging, allowing it to achieve 80% charge in roughly 45 minutes.

With the addition of the Always-On Display, the Apple Watch SE 3 presents an appealing option, particularly for those new to the Apple Watch ecosystem. It delivers key display features and health tracking functionalities for under $250, making it the preferred option for most users this year.

### Specifications Comparison

| Spec | **Apple Watch SE 3** | **Apple Watch Series 11** |
|————————–|——————————————|——————————————|
| Sizes | Available in 40mm and 44mm | Available in 42mm and 46mm |
| Display Size | 40mm: 1.57-inch, 44mm: 1.78-inch | 42mm: 1.79-inch, 46mm: 1.99-inch |
| Chip | S10 chip | S10 chip (premium model) |
| Always-On Display | Yes | Yes |
| Display Brightness | Up to 1000 nits | Up to 2000 nits |
| Hypertension Notifications| No | Yes |
| ECG App | No | Yes |
| Blood Oxygen App | No | Yes |
| Water Temperature Sensor | No | Yes |
| Depth Gauge | No | Yes |
| Battery Life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 24 hours |
| Colors | Starlight and midnight | Aluminum: Space gray, rose gold, polished Jet Black, silver; Titanium: Gold, natural, slate |
| Normal Price | From $249 | From $399 |

## Apple Watch Series 11

The [Apple Watch Series 11](https://geni.us/a7YX0) provides numerous significant enhancements compared to the Apple Watch SE 3. It showcases a larger and more luminous display in 42mm and 46mm case sizes, with a battery life lasting up to 24 hours and 38 hours in Low Power Mode.

Regarding health capabilities, the Apple Watch Series 11 features hypertension notifications and includes the ECG and Blood Oxygen applications. It is crafted for users seeking the optimal Apple Watch experience without choosing the more rugged Apple Watch Ultra 3. It serves as an excellent option for those already integrated into the Apple Watch ecosystem who haven’t updated in a while, offering comprehensive health monitoring functionalities along with a stylish edge-to-edge display and all-day battery life for less than $400.

## Apple Watch New Year’s Challenge

Apple has launched an Apple Watch Activity Challenge to inspire users to commence 2026 on a positive note. This challenge, occurring from January 7 through January 31, rewards participants for closing all three Activity rings for seven consecutive days during January.

## Conclusion

Selecting between the Apple Watch SE 3 and the Apple Watch Series 11 relies on your personal preferences and financial plan. The SE 3 stands out as a remarkable choice for most individuals, whereas the Series 11 provides enhanced health features and a premium experience for those prepared to spend more.

**CarPlay Ultra: The Future of In-Car Connectivity**

Earlier this year, Apple officially unveiled CarPlay Ultra, the next-gen iteration of its acclaimed in-car interface, which was first introduced at WWDC 2022. CarPlay Ultra began its rollout in May 2025, initially made available to Aston Martin owners in the U.S. and Canada. Nonetheless, many are eager to know when other automakers will embrace this innovative technology.

### Next-Gen CarPlay Brands

In December 2023, Apple announced that Porsche and Aston Martin would be the first manufacturers to implement CarPlay Ultra starting in 2024. Despite this revelation, the timeline has encountered setbacks, with Apple confirming in January 2025 that the rollout of next-generation CarPlay had been delayed but remained in progress. As of now, Apple has not shared a timeline for when CarPlay Ultra will reach other brands beyond Aston Martin, nor does it maintain a detailed list of manufacturers committed to the platform.

During the initial announcement in June 2022, Apple indicated that multiple brands had committed to support the next-generation CarPlay. By May 2025, three additional partners—Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis—were confirmed. However, various automakers have since retreated from their commitments. For example, Mercedes-Benz has cancelled its plans to adopt next-gen CarPlay, and reports suggest that Audi, Volvo, Polestar, and Renault have also withdrawn their support despite prior commitments.

As of December 2025, the following automakers are confirmed to support CarPlay Ultra:

– Acura
– Aston Martin
– Ford
– Genesis
– Honda
– Hyundai
– Infiniti
– Jaguar
– Kia
– Land Rover
– Lincoln
– Nissan
– Porsche

### Hyundai’s Plans

Recent speculation indicates that Hyundai’s forthcoming IONIQ 3 electric vehicle may include support for CarPlay Ultra. Expected to debut in early 2026, possibly at the Brussels Motor Show in January, the IONIQ 3 is projected to start at around £25,000 ($33,700), considerably more economical than the luxury Aston Martin.

### Ford’s Plans

Ford has also been identified as a collaborator for CarPlay Ultra, but the automaker has voiced concerns regarding the platform’s initial version. In a recent interview, Ford CEO Jim Farley acknowledged the company’s allegiance to Apple while also expressing discontent with the first iteration of CarPlay Ultra. This denotes a careful yet receptive stance on future collaboration.

### Wrap Up

As the CarPlay Ultra landscape continues to evolve, the pivotal question remains whether additional automakers will retract their plans to support the platform. Apple has yet to supply a thorough list of partners, leaving consumers and industry analysts eager for more information. For those interested in the features of CarPlay Ultra, additional details can be accessed in dedicated coverage.

### Conclusion

CarPlay Ultra signifies a major leap in in-car technology, offering improved connectivity and integration for drivers. As more manufacturers join the initiative, it will be fascinating to observe how this new platform influences the future of in-car experiences.

**Apple and (RED): A 19-Year Alliance in the Battle Against AIDS**

Since 2006, Apple and (RED) have joined forces to increase awareness and generate funds to fight AIDS, contributing over $270 million to the Global Fund. This collaboration has transformed from unique (PRODUCT)RED devices to more targeted fundraising campaigns, especially around World AIDS Day, celebrated on December 1st.

In a recent campaign, Apple declared that it would donate $5 for every qualifying purchase made through Apple Pay from December 1 to December 7, with an overall donation limit of $3 million. This initiative is designed to support vital health programs that save lives and offer critical services for individuals impacted by HIV/AIDS.

The contributions are directed to the Global Fund, a U.S.-based organization focused on combating AIDS and enhancing health outcomes globally. Apple’s commitment to this cause underscores the company’s enduring dedication to social responsibility and community engagement.

As of December 30, (RED) confirmed that the $3 million donation limit was met, representing a notable accomplishment in this year’s fundraising initiatives. For further details on Apple’s ongoing collaboration with (RED) and how to get involved, please visit their official website.