Apple Watch SE Frequently Asked Questions FAQ

Article ID = 258
Article Title = Apple Watch SE Frequently Asked Questions FAQ
Article Author(s) = Graham Needham (BH)
Article Created On = 16th September 2020
Article Last Updated = 8th September 2022
Article URL = https://www.macstrategy.com/article.php?258

Article Brief Description:
Frequently Asked Questions about the Apple Watch SE

Q. What is the Apple Watch SE?

A. The Apple Watch SE is new version of the original Apple Watch which has mid-range features with a mid-range price - it was announced on the 15th September 2020 with immediate pre-orders and starts shipping on the 18th September 2020.

Q. What are the primary features that the Apple Watch SE has?

Retina display
S4 processor
Continuous, always-on altimeter
Water proof
Emergency SOS
International Emergency Calling (cellular models only)
Fall Detection
Supports Family Setup
Compass
Noise monitoring

See Apple UK's comparison chart for a full feature by feature comparison.

Q. What are the primary features that the Apple Watch SE does not have compared to other models?

S6 processor
Blood Oxygen measuring (app)
ECG (app)
Always-on display
New colours

See Apple UK's comparison chart for a full feature by feature comparison.

Q. What sizes (watch faces) does the Apple Watch SE come in?

A. There are two screen/watch face sizes: 40mm and 44mm.

Q. What are the different cases?

A. There is only one case with three different colour schemes - aluminium - toughened, anodised aluminium available in silver, space grey and gold.

Q. What models of Apple Watch Series SE are available?

A. There are two models:

Standard
Nike+

NOTE: Prices go up depending on the model, watch face size, type of case and type of band/strap you want.

Q. Is the strap detachable/interchangeable?

A. Yes - straps are detachable/interchangeable and there are many official options along with third party products available too.

Q. Can the face be scratched?

A. With difficulty as the face is made from alumina-silicate Ion-X glass (specifically resistant to scratches and impact).

Q. Is the Apple Watch water proof?

A. Yes. Apple states "Apple Watch SE has a water resistance rating of 50 metres under ISO standard 22810:2010. This means that it may be used for shallow-water activities like swimming in a pool or ocean. However, Apple Watch SE should not be used for scuba diving, waterskiing or other activities involving high-velocity water or submersion below shallow depth. Stainless steel and leather straps are not water resistant".

Q. What are the requirements for using an Apple Watch SE?

A. A supported iPhone model running iOS 14 or later. Supported iPhone models include:

Q. Can I use the Apple Watch without an iPhone?

A. Generally, no. You need a compatible iPhone to first pair the watch which then enables the watch to communicate with your iPhone via Bluetooth (close proximity) or local Wi-Fi network. The Watch does not stop working if it cannot communicate with its paired iPhone but obviously some features are not available (e.g. notifications of incoming emails/messages). Without the iPhone the watch does continue to function e.g. tell the time, track data such as exercise and heart rate, play music and view photos from the internal storage in the Watch. The GPS+Cellular SE model can be used during the course of the day without the need for the iPhone to be close by. However, with iOS 14 or later and an Apple Watch model running watchOS 7 or later, you can use the new Family Setup feature to setup multiple Apple Watches for the family from one primary iPhone - requires iPhone 6s with iOS 14 or later + Apple Watch SE or Series 4/5/6 cellular models only.

Q. Can I use the Apple Watch GPS+Cellular model without an iPhone at all?

A. No. It still needs to be "paired" to an iPhone but a lot of what the Watch can do, the GPS+Cellular model can do without the need for your iPhone to be nearby.

Q. What about left handed users?

Q. Can I wear the Watch on either my left or right wrist?

A. Users are able to choose the orientation of the interface when starting the watch up for the first time. The Apple Watch wrist bands are interchangeable and can be swapped around too. The only potential difference for left handed/right wrist wearing users is that the Digital Crown input wheel will be on the bottom left instead of the top right.

Q. Is the hard fall detection automatic?

A. If you have configured health data and are over 65 the hard fall detection will be switched on automatically. If you haven't configured health data (correctly) or are younger and want the detection enabled you can turn it on manually.

Q. Does the Apple Watch GPS+Cellular model require a separate cellular contract/tariff/charge?

A. You don't need a separate contract but there is a separate tariff/charge for the Watch's cellular service. This will be provided (if possible) by the provider of your paired iPhone's cellular service - Apple Watch and iPhone service provider must be the same and the Watch cellular service is not available with all service providers. The Watch's cellular service may also only work with certain providers in some countries as it only supports a limited number of 4G/LTE bands. Due to the need to share the number of your iPhone it is not likely to work with prepaid/Pay As You Go (PAYG) services, as many of those don't support this feature.

Q. What cellular frequencies does the Apple Watch GPS+Cellular model support?

A. It only supports some 4G/LTE bands and thus only certain carriers in each country. In addition, different models from around the world support different frequencies. See our separate article for more details with links to Apple's Watch cellular providers page.

Q. Can I buy the Apple Watch GPS+Cellular model and not immediately use the cellular service?

A. It would appear so - Apple's web site states, "When you pair your Apple Watch SE (GPS + Cellular) with your iPhone, you will be prompted to set up cellular service with your provider. Or you can set up service later using the Watch app on your iPhone".

Q. Can I use the phone to make calls ala Dick Tracy style?

A. Yes, the Apple Watch has a microphone. The GPS only model has to be in proximity to your iPhone (either via Bluetooth or local Wi-Fi network). The GPS+Cellular model can make/take calls and send/receive messages without the need for your iPhone to be nearby.

Q. What "number" does the Apple Watch GPS+Cellular model have/use for calls/messages?

A. It uses the same number of the iPhone that it is paired to.

Q. Is the hard fall detection automatic?

Q. How is the Apple Watch charged?

A. Apple has created an innovative charging solution where the back of the watch can be attached/placed on to a charger in any orientation.
Apple Watch Charging Solution

Q. Does the Apple Watch have any internal storage?

A. Yes. All SE models have 32GB. However, some types of media may be limited to the total amount of storage that they can take up.

Q. Can the Apple Watch work with the Apple Pay system?

A. Yes it does. See this article for more information about the Apple Pay system. A passcode is required for setting up Apple Pay with the Apple Watch. For security, this passcode must be re-entered every time the watch is put back on after being removed. A payment can be made by tapping the side of the Apple Watch twice and holding it near a payment terminal. As long as the Watch is paired with your iPhone and the passcode has been entered the Watch does not need to be in proximity to you iPhone to make payments.

Q. Can the Apple Watch control the iPhone?

A. Yes. The Watch can control certain aspects of your iPhone such as music and even be used as a remote control for the iPhone camera which is ideal for group/timed shots.

Q. Does the Apple Watch have it's own operating system?

A. Yes - it's called "watchOS". The Apple Watch SE comes with watchOS 7.0.

watchOS 10 requires an iPhone XS or later, running iOS 17 or later
watchOS 10 requires an Apple Watch Series 4 or later
the watchOS 10.4 new features/bug fix/security update was released on 22nd January 2024.
the watchOS 10.3 new features/bug fix/security update was released on 22nd January 2024.
the watchOS 10.2 new features/bug fix/security update was released on 11th December 2023.
the watchOS 10.1.1 bug fix update was released on 7th November 2023.
the watchOS 10.1 new features/bug fix/security update was released on 25th October 2023.
the watchOS 10.0.2 bug fix update was released on 26th September 2023.
the watchOS 10.0.1 bug fix/security update was released on 21st September 2023.
watchOS 10 was released on 18th September 2023.

Smart Stack
Faster way to access Control Center
New and enhanced Watch Faces
New views in the Compass app
Topographic maps
Elevation alerts
Supports mobile device management (MDM), VPN configuration, and the ability to deploy business internal-use apps
Offline maps (requires iPhone)
Follow-up medication reminders
The watchOS 10.1 update included:

Double Tap gesture - requires Apple Watch Series 9 or Apple Watch Ultra 2 models
NameDrop - requires Apple Watch Series 7 or later, Apple Watch SE (2nd generation), and all Ultra models
My Card is available as a complication for quick access to NameDrop

NOTE: Some features may not be available for all countries or all areas. This information is derived from Apple's publically available release notes.

watchOS 9 requires an iPhone 8 or later, running iOS 16 or later
watchOS 9 requires an Apple Watch Series 4 or later
watchOS 9 was released on 12th September 2022.
the watchOS 9.6.2 security update was released on 7th September 2023.
the watchOS 9.6.1 bug fix update was released on 15th August 2023.
the watchOS 9.6 bug fix/security update was released on 25th July 2023.
the watchOS 9.5.2 security update was released on 21st June 2023.
the watchOS 9.5.1 bug fix update was released on 30th May 2023.
the watchOS 9.5 bug fix/security update was released on 18th May 2023.
the watchOS 9.4 bug fix/security update was released on 27th March 2023.
the watchOS 9.3 bug fix/security update was released on 13th February 2023.
the watchOS 9.3 bug fix/security update was released on 23rd January 2023.
the watchOS 9.2 new feature/bug fix/security update was released on 13th December 2022.
the watchOS 9.1 bug fix/security update was released on 24th October 2022.
the watchOS 9.0.2 bug fix update was released on 10th October 2022.
the watchOS 9.0.1 bug fix update was released on 22nd September 2022 for Apple Watch Ultra models only.

watchOS 9.x includes the following new features:

New Watch Faces including Astronomy, Lunar, Playtime, Metropolitan, Nike Analog, Nike Bounce, Nike Compact, Nike Digital, and Nike Hybrid
New Workout Views
Customize your workouts
Enhanced Workout Summary
Redesigned Compass app
Backtrack uses GPS to track your historic path (requires Apple Watch SE and Apple Watch Series 6 and later)
Track your sleep over time
Medications feature with reminders
AFib History
Mirror Watch screen to your iPhone (requires Apple Watch Series 6 or later)
Low Power Mode
Support for international roaming
Turn off cellular data
Text size in the Control Center
Control your iPhone with your Apple Watch
Favourite timers
New keyboard languages including French, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish

watchOS 9.2 and later includes the following new features:

Outdoor Run workout now automatically detects when you arrive at a running track and provides track specific metrics
Race Route lets you compete against your previous performance in Outdoor Run, Outdoor Cycle, and Outdoor Wheelchair Workouts
New custom Kickboxing algorithm in the Workout app for more accurate metrics
Noise app displays when environmental sound levels are reduced while wearing AirPods Pro (1st generation) and AirPods Max with active noise cancellation
Family Setup users can be invited to the Home app to control HomePod speakers and smart home accessories, and unlock doors with home keys in Wallet
Accessibility support to visualize when Siren is in use on Apple Watch Ultra
Improved response time and accuracy of hand gesture controls for AssistiveTouch and Quick Actions

NOTE: Some features may not be available for all countries or all areas. This information is derived from Apple's publically available release notes.

watchOS 8 requires an iPhone 6s or later, running iOS 15 or later
watchOS 8 requires an Apple Watch Series 3 or later
the watchOS 8.7.1 bug fix update was released on 17th August 2022 - for Apple Watch Series 3 owners only!
the watchOS 8.7 bug fix and security update was released on 20th July 2022.
the watchOS 8.6 bug fix and security update was released on 16th May 2022.
the watchOS 8.5.1 bug fix update was released on 31st March 2022.
the watchOS 8.5 bug fix, new features and security update was released on 14th March 2022.
the watchOS 8.4.2 bug fix update was released on 10th February 2022.
the watchOS 8.4.1 bug fix update (for Series 4 and later) was released on 1st February 2022.
the watchOS 8.4 bug fix and security update was released on 26th January 2022.
the watchOS 8.3 bug fix, new features and security update was released on 13th December 2021.
the watchOS 8.1.1 bug fix update was released on 18th November 2021 (Watch Series 7 models only).
the watchOS 8.1 bug fix, new features and security update was released on 25th October 2021.
the watchOS 8.0.1 bug fix update was released on 12th October 2021.
watchOS 8 was released on 20th September 2021.

Ability to authorize Apple TV purchases and subscriptions
COVID-19 vaccination cards in Apple Wallet now support the EU Digital COVID Certificate format
Updates to irregular rhythm notifications designed to improve atrial fibrillation identification. Available in countries where the feature is available.
Audio hints in Fitness+ provide you with audio commentary of visually demonstrated moves during workouts
Home - Smart home, smarter watch: When one of your smart devices is activated, watchOS 8 can automatically make suggestions for others nearby.
Home - One room, lots of views: Access all your security cameras in the new Camera room.
Enhanced Wallet - new keys and ID card options
Focus mode - Focus for work/personal/sleep/custom setup + automatically sets across all compatible Apple devices
New Reflect app - to help with mindfulness
Enhanced Breathe app
New Contacts app
Set multiple timers
Respiratory rate now monitored during sleep
New workouts - Tai Chi + Pilates
Portrait photos can be turned into a Watch Face

NOTE: Some features may not be available for all models, all countries, or all areas. This information is derived from Apple's publically available release notes.

watchOS 7 requires an iPhone 6s or later, running iOS 14 or later
watchOS 7 requires an Apple Watch Series 3 or later
the watchOS 7.5 feature/bug fix/security update was released on 19th July 2021.
the watchOS 7.5 feature/bug fix/security update was released on 24th May 2021.
the watchOS 7.4.1 bug fix/security update was released on 3rd May 2021.
the watchOS 7.4 feature/bug fix/security update was released on 26th April 2021.
the watchOS 7.3.3 security update was released on 26th March 2021.
the watchOS 7.3.2 security update was released on 8th March 2021.
the watchOS 7.3.1 bug fix update was released on 15th February 2021 (for Apple Watch Series 5 and SE only).
the watchOS 7.3 feature/bug fix/security update was released on 26th January 2021.
the watchOS 7.2 feature/bug fix/security update was released on 14th December 2020.
the watchOS 7.1 feature/bug fix/security update was released on 5th November 2020.
the watchOS 7.0.3 bug fix update (for Series 3 models only) was released on 19th October 2020.
the watchOS 7.0.2 bug fix update was released on 12th October 2020.
the watchOS 7.0.1 bug fix update was released on 24th September 2020.
watchOS 7 was released on 16th September 2020 and included:

Family Setup - setup multiple Apple Watches for the family from one primary iPhone - requires iPhone 6s with iOS 14 or later + Apple Watch SE or Series 4/5/6 cellular models only (not all standard watchOS features will be available if the Apple Watch is set up through Family Setup)
New watch faces - watch faces are now more customisable, powerful, and discoverable than ever, including the ability to "share" and "download" faces
New Memoji app including Memoji watch faces
New Sleep app with Sleep Mode, Sleep charts, and Sleep Tracking including alerts, "Wind Down" and Wake Up
Fitness - four new workouts (Dance, Functional Strength Training, Core Training, and post-workout Cooldown)
Cycling in Maps
Handwashing - automatic detection + 20 second handwash notification - requires Apple Watch Series 4 or later
Enhanced Siri

Siri translation (10 languages)
On-device dictation
Siri Shortcuts

Hearing Health enhancements
Car Keys - requires Apple Watch Series 5 or later
Support for Fitness+ - watchOS 7.2 or later required (initially, only UK and Ireland in Europe)
Support for braille displays with VoiceOver - requires watchOS 7.2 or later
Support for Family Setup in Bahrain, Canada, Norway, and Spain - requires watchOS 7.2 or later with cellular models of Apple Watch Series 4 or later or cellular Apple Watch SE
watchOS 7.3 includes:

Unity watch face—inspired by the colors of the Pan-African Flag, the shapes change throughout the day as you move creating a face that’s unique to you
Time to Walk for Apple Fitness+ subscribers—an audio experience in the Workout app where guests share inspiring stories as you walk
ECG app on Apple Watch Series 4 or later in Japan, Mayotte, Philippines, and Thailand
Irregular heart rhythm notifications in Japan, Mayotte, Philippines, Taiwan, and Thailand

watchOS 7.4 includes:

Ability to unlock your iPhone X and later with Apple Watch when you attempt to use Face ID while wearing a face mask - requires an iPhone with iOS 14.5 or later
Option to classify Bluetooth device type in Settings for correct identification of headphones for audio notifications
Ability to stream audio and video content from Apple Fitness+ workouts to AirPlay 2-enabled TVs and devices
Support for the ECG app on Apple Watch Series 4 or later in Australia and Vietnam
Irregular heart rhythm notifications in Australia and Vietnam

watchOS 7.5 includes:

Support for Spatial Audio + Lossless Audio streaming
Support Apple Card Family
Support for Podcast subscriptions

NOTE: Some features may not be available for all countries or all areas. This information was derived from Apple's publically available release notes.

Article Keywords: Apple Watch SE AppleWatchSE iPhone v14iOS iOS14 iOS 14 v15iOS iOS15 v16iOS iOS16 v17iOS iOS17 iOS 12 13 14 15 16 17 watchOS 7 8 9 10

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