Apple and Huawei launch tiered smartwatches with differing aims

Apple and Huawei this month expanded the smartwatch market with fresh lineups aimed at different buyers: Apple introduced three new models at its September product event — the Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3 and the entry level Apple Watch SE 3 — while Huawei rolled out the Watch GT 6 family, including the GT 6, GT 6 Pro and the rugged Watch Ultimate 2 at a separate launch. The releases sharpen the split between feature-rich, higher-priced wearables and long‑battery, fitness‑focused devices.

Apple’s new trio continues the company’s tiered approach. The Series 11 starts at about $399, the Ultra 3 at $799 and the SE 3 at $249, with cellular and size options adding to the cost. All three share Apple’s S10 processor, bringing features such as AlwaysOn display, faster charging and support for Apple’s new fitness coach and sleep scoring. The SE 3 is the headline value play: reviewers noted it packs much of the same software and core sensors as the pricier models, while trimming hardware that drives cost higher. It gains temperature sensing, sleep apnea detection and 5G connectivity, but omits onboard ECG, blood oxygen monitoring, hypertension alerts and the Ultra 3’s...