Tech

Apple Watch Series 11 drops to $299 as retailers match best price

The Apple Watch Series 11 has returned to its lowest recorded price of $299 across Amazon, Walmart, and Target. The discount applies to all colourways of the 42mm GPS-enabled model, positioning the device for its upcoming software overhaul.

Author
Owen Mercer
Markets and Finance Editor
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Source: The Verge · original
The Apple Watch Series 11 is back to its best price
Major US chains cut $100 off the latest GPS-enabled model ahead of watchOS 27 update

The Apple Watch Series 11 has returned to its best price of $299, representing a $100 discount from the standard retail cost. The reduction is currently available across major US retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, and Target. This price point matches the lowest figure recorded for the device to date, making it the most accessible entry point for the latest wearable technology in the current market cycle.

The offer covers all colourways of the GPS-enabled 42mm model. For consumers looking to personalise the device, discounted Apple Watch bands are available through Woot, with prices starting at $14.99. This accessory discount represents a saving of $35 on select bands, allowing buyers to adjust the total cost of ownership while securing the core hardware at its promotional floor.

Hardware specifications for the Series 11 include the S10 chip, a processor also utilised in the more affordable Apple Watch SE 3, which retails for $219. However, the Series 11 distinguishes itself with additional capabilities, including hypertension notifications, an ultra-wideband chip, and a depth gauge. The device also features a more durable, scratch-resistant design and a brighter, wide-angle OLED screen with higher pixel density than previous iterations.

Battery performance has been significantly enhanced in this generation, offering up to 24 hours of operation on a single charge. This improvement addresses a common constraint in earlier models, such as the Series 6, and positions the Series 11 as a viable upgrade for users seeking longer endurance without frequent recharging. The inclusion of these features places the Series 11 in a distinct tier above the SE series, despite sharing the same underlying silicon.

Software longevity remains a key factor in the device's value proposition. The Series 11 is one of the few models confirmed to support the upcoming watchOS 27 update, scheduled for release this autumn. This update will introduce Siri AI capabilities, allowing for more complex task handling and cross-device information surfacing. Additional features include a redesigned app grid and custom Wallet passes for cards utilising barcodes or QR codes, ensuring the hardware remains relevant through the next major software cycle.

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