When Apple Watch Series 3 Released: A Deep Dive into Its Launch and Legacy

Table of Contents

• Key Takeaways

• The Apple Watch Series 3 Release Date

• What Made Apple Watch Series 3 Special?

  • Cellular Connectivity for the First Time

  • Faster Performance with the S3 Chip

• Apple Watch Series 3 Models and Pricing

• Design and Display: How Did It Compare to Previous Models?

  • Case Size and Thickness

  • Display

• Performance and Features of Apple Watch Series 3

• Why Apple Discontinued the Apple Watch Series 3

• Is the Apple Watch Series 3 Still Worth Buying in 2025?

  • Pros

  • Cons

  • Verdict: Is It Worth It?

• External Links

• YouTube Links

• Summary: The Lasting Impact of Apple Watch Series 3

Key Takeaways

• Apple Watch Series 3 was released on September 22, 2017.
• It was the first Apple Watch with built-in cellular connectivity.
• The Series 3 introduced major performance improvements with the S3 chip.
• Apple continued selling it until 2022, making it one of the longest-supported Apple Watch models.
• Despite being outdated, some users still consider it for basic fitness tracking.

The Apple Watch Series 3 Release Date

When Apple Watch Series 3 release officially on September 22, 2017, following its announcement at Apple’s keynote event on September 12, 2017.

Notably, this was the same event where Apple introduced the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and, most importantly, the groundbreaking iPhone X. At the time, the Apple Watch Series 3 was, by comparison, a major upgrade from its predecessors. Specifically, it introduced built-in LTE connectivity, which, in turn, allowed users to make calls and send texts seamlessly, even without needing an iPhone nearby. As a result, many Apple fans were thrilled about this innovation because it marked a significant step toward making the Apple Watch far more independent than ever before.

What Made Apple Watch Series 3 Special?

Cellular Connectivity for the First Time

Without a doubt, the biggest innovation in the Apple Watch Series 3 was, first and foremost, the groundbreaking addition of LTE connectivity. As a result, users could finally stay connected even without their iPhone nearby.

For the first time, users could:

• ✅ Make and receive calls without an iPhone nearby.
  ✅ Stream Apple Music directly from the watch.
  ✅ Send messages and use apps with just the watch’s cellular data.

This was a game-changer for people who wanted to leave their phone behind but still stay connected.

Faster Performance with the S3 Chip

Apple initially introduced the S3 dual-core processor, which significantly improved performance and made the Series 3 up to 70% faster than the Series 2. As a result, users experienced notably smoother app performance, considerably faster load times, and a much more responsive Siri.

This resulted in:

• Smoother app performance.
• Faster Siri responses.
• Better efficiency for fitness tracking and GPS.

Apple Watch Series 3 Models and Pricing

Apple released two versions of the Series 3:

The GPS + Cellular model was particularly popular because it allowed users to conveniently leave their iPhone at home while still being able to make calls, send messages, and use apps directly from the watch. Moreover, this newfound independence made the Apple Watch even more appealing to fitness enthusiasts and those who preferred a more minimalist lifestyle.

Nevertheless, to take full advantage of the cellular features, users unfortunately had to subscribe to a carrier plan, which, in turn, added an extra monthly cost. As a result, some potential buyers hesitated before committing to the additional expense.

Need help identifying your Apple Watch? Here’s a complete guide to identifying your model.

Design and Display: How Did It Compare to Previous Models?

The Apple Watch Series 3 kept the same design as its predecessors, but with a few minor differences.

Case Size and Thickness

• Available in 38mm and 42mm sizes.
• Slightly thicker than Series 2 due to the addition of LTE components.

Interestingly, the only visible difference, however, was the red dot on the Digital Crown. Specifically, this design element signified that, unlike previous models, the Series 3 had advanced cellular capabilities.

Display

• OLED Retina display with Force Touch.
• Bright and power-efficient, making it easy to read outdoors.

While the Series 3 had the same screen size as previous models, Apple made improvements in brightness and touch responsiveness.

Performance and Features of Apple Watch Series 3

Apple made several significant hardware and software improvements in the Series 3. As a result, it became not only the fastest but also the most capable Apple Watch at the time. Furthermore, these upgrades enhanced its overall performance, making it a major step forward compared to its predecessors.

Key Upgrades

• 🔹 S3 Dual-Core Processor – 70% faster than the Series 2.
  🔹 W2 Wireless Chip – 85% faster Wi-Fi, 50% more power-efficient Bluetooth.
  🔹 Barometric Altimeter – Allowed users to track elevation and stair climbing.
  🔹 Advanced Heart Rate Monitoring – Improved accuracy for fitness tracking.
  🔹 50m Water Resistance – Suitable for swimming and water workouts.

Why Apple Discontinued the Apple Watch Series 3

After nearly five years on the market, Apple officially discontinued the Apple Watch Series 3 in June 2022.

Reasons for Discontinuation:

📉 Hardware Limitations – The S3 processor started struggling with newer watchOS updates, leading to slower performance and app crashes.
🔄 Lack of Future Updates – The Series 3 stopped receiving major watchOS updates after watchOS 8.
⏳ Aging Design – The Series 3 kept the same design as the Apple Watch Series 1 and 2, while newer models introduced larger displays and better health sensors.

If you’re wondering whether the Series 3 is a smart purchase today, here’s a breakdown of its pros and cons:

✅ Pros:

• ✔️ Affordable Price – Can be found for under $100 in used condition.
  ✔️ Basic Fitness Tracking – Still works for heart rate monitoring, step counting, and GPS tracking.
  ✔️ Water Resistance (50m) – Good for swimming and light workouts.

❌ Cons:

• 🚫 No More Software Updates – Stuck on watchOS 8, which limits app compatibility.
  🚫 Slower Performance – The S3 chip is outdated, leading to lag and app crashes.
  🚫 Limited App Support – Many apps no longer work on watchOS 8.

Verdict: Is It Worth It?

❌ For most users, the Apple Watch Series 3 is NOT a good buy in 2025.

Instead, consider these better alternatives:

External Links:

1. Apple's Official Announcement of Apple Watch Series 3 (2017) – Apple’s official press release detailing the launch of the Series 3.
2. Apple Watch Series 3 Specifications (GSMArena) – A complete breakdown of technical specifications.
3. Why Apple Discontinued the Apple Watch Series 3 (MacRumors) – Analysis on why Apple stopped selling the Series 3.

YouTube Links:

1. Apple Watch Series 3 Unboxing & Review (2017) – A first-hand look at the Series 3 at launch.
2. Is the Apple Watch Series 3 Still Worth It? (2023 Review) – A modern perspective on using the Series 3 today.
3. Apple Watch Series 9 Vs Apple Watch Series 3! (Comparison) (Review) – A comparison between the Series 3 and newer Apple Watch models.

Summary: The Lasting Impact of Apple Watch Series 3

Despite being discontinued, the Apple Watch Series 3 remains one of Apple’s most iconic smartwatches.

It was the first Apple Watch with cellular connectivity, paving the way for more independent smartwatch features.

However, in 2025, the Series 3 is no longer a good investment due to lack of software support and slow performance.

Best Advice: If you're shopping for a budget-friendly Apple Watch, consider the SE (2020 or 2022) instead.

Would you like recommendations on where to buy the best Apple Watch accessories? Let me know! 🚀

Blog Author section.

Emily Johnson

 

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Emily is a seasoned writer and technology enthusiast with a passion for digital watches and wearable tech. With over a decade of experience in the tech industry, she brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to her readers.