Is this a sign that nobody wants the new model?
Or is it so popular that retailers are using it as a loss-leader to draw in buyers?
TheApple Watch Series 6is probably the best smartwatch you’re free to buy.
Apple
The trouble is, last years Series 5 is almost as good.
“Thats kinda the way Apple does this stuff though.”
The Best Apple Watch
Lets consider those discounts.
Heres a screenshot of ads from a few days ago.
You see discounts from the 9to5Mac store, from an insurance company, and linked to Black Friday deals.
To me, that makes it seem like a classic loss-leader.
You discount the most popular items to get buyers in the door, then sell them your higher-margin stuff.
Its a bit better, but not much difference.
Thats kinda the way Apple does this stuff though.
The current lineup runs thus:
The SE is kind of an in-between model.
It uses the larger case design and display of the flagship S6, but leaves out the always-on display.
And that display is the main reason to buy the 6.
Who Should Buy the Apple Watch Series 6?
Up until the Series 5, the Apple Watchs screen stayed blank.
To activate the display, you had to raise your wrist, or tap the screen.
So, if you want an always-on display, you have to buy the Series 6.
Otherwise, get the SE.
The main purpose of the Series 3 is to disappoint a giftee at Christmas time.
The incremental updates all add up.
So, if you upgrade every three or four years, then its a big leap.
If you already have a Series 5, the S6 is a really tough sell.
The blood oxygen sensor isnt even approved for medical use.
What About Those Discounts?
In conclusion, it seems like those discounts are nothing more than publicity winners for the various vendors.
Giveaways and discounts have always focussed on the most desired products, and this is no exception.
That said, perhaps there is a slowdown this year.
“I think its a bit crazy to [upgrade your watch] once a year.
Especially at that price,” says Bower.
On the other hand, he says, “The incremental updates all add up.
So, if you upgrade every three or four years, then its a big leap.”
