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I'm using an Apple Watch SE 2, but I'm disappointed it won't be getting watchOS 27 β these are the models I'm considering upgrading to this Amazon Prime Day
I'm still using my Apple Watch SE 2, and while it's an easy-to-use device that gets me through my day I was bitterly disappointed to learn that Apple is shutting it out of the upcoming watchOS 27 rollout, along with a slew of other devices.
Luckily, Amazon Prime Day is just around the corner and there are already early deals on the best Apple Watches. If you're in the same boat as me and want to get a kick out of watchOS 27 but your device is being shunned, stay put.
β’ Browse all the early Prime Day deals
The best part about these early deals is that each of Apple's new wearable models have a discount in some shape or form. For me, the Apple Watch Series 11 tops the list not just because it's now $279 down from $399 (Β£317 in the UK), but because it sits perfectly between the basic Apple Watch SE 3 and the advanced Apple Watch Ultra 3, both of which are also discounted ahead of Prime Day.
Why does having watchOS 27 matter? I can see most people getting by quite fine with watchOS 26, but for me it's a huge revamp for the smartwatch experience. For starters, the new Siri AI comes to your wrist, and although EU restrictions will delay its arrival, there are other upgrades to look forward to like its redesigned app grid and its added Workout Buddy insights.
In addition, watchOS 26-only watches will only get security updates from hereon out, becoming increasingly out of date as future upgrades arrive each year.
Best US Apple Watch deals
For one of Apple's latest smartwatches, $120 off is more than generous, especially if you're looking to upgrade for watchOS 27 support. The thing with this particular Apple Watch range is that they love to fluctuate in price on Amazon every month or so. This is the first time this month the Apple Watch Series 11 has dropped in price, but its unlikely it'll get a better reduction come Prime Day itself. View Deal
As far as Apple's basic smartwatch range goes, not only is the SE 3 a speedy upgrade from its predecessor (it has the same chip as the Ultra 3) but it has the firmware to support watchOS 27. For less than $200, you can benefit from core fitness tracking features as well as the neat new tools that are on the way, which includes Siri AI, all while not having to spend a shedload on an advanced model if you know you won't need all the nitty gritty bells and whistles. We named this as the best Apple Watch for most people, a safe and inexpensive option. View Deal
Are you a Garmin user who wants to try something different? The Apple Watch Ultra range is a solid Garmin rival if a) you like using your smartwatch without having to keep your iPhone nearby, and b) you know you'll want to get a kick out of its plethora of extreme sports features. As predicted, this model has seen another price drop just before Prime Day, hitting a record-low discount. View Deal
Best UK Apple Watch deals
Just like its US equivalent, shoppers in the UK can pick up the Apple Watch Series 11 for the same price, and its price history is similar. This device likes to yo-yo in price so it's difficult to tell when the next price drop will occur, so it may be worth scoring it now while you can, especially if you don't like to take risks when it comes to Prime Day. View Deal
This is the lowest price we've seen the SE 3 hit in the UK, but this is another listing that has a history of jumping between high and low price points. As mentioned earlier, we recommend the SE 3 for users who want a just-above entry level device, and the upside is that it will support watchOS 27 when it drops later this yearView Deal
Luckily for UK shoppers, this is the lowest price for one of Apple's latest and most advanced wearables. With that in mind, waiting around for another Prime Day price drop may not be the best idea if it's already record-low ahead of the big event. View Deal
