Apple Watch Series 3 Launch Date & Specs

Yes, the Apple Watch Series 3 was launched on September 22, 2017, alongside the iPhone 8 and iPhone X. It was announced at Apple’s keynote on September 12, 2017, and brought cellular connectivity to the Apple Watch for the first time.

Background: Why the Series 3 Mattered

Before the Series 3, the Apple Watch was heavily dependent on the iPhone for most tasks. The first two generations (Series 0 and Series 1/2) could track workouts, show notifications, and run basic apps, but they needed a paired iPhone nearby for GPS, messaging, or music streaming. The Series 3 changed that by adding an optional LTE cellular model, allowing users to make calls, send messages, and stream music without carrying their phone.

This was a major shift in Apple’s wearable strategy. It positioned the watch as a standalone device for runners, commuters, and anyone who wanted to leave their phone behind. The Series 3 also introduced a faster dual-core processor (the S3 chip) and a new barometric altimeter for tracking elevation changes, which appealed to hikers and cyclists.

Key Features and Specifications

The Apple Watch Series 3 came in two versions: GPS-only and GPS + Cellular. Both shared the same core specs:

Display: 38mm (272Ã—340 pixels) or 42mm (312Ã—390 pixels) OLED Retina, same as Series 2.
Chip: S3 dual-core processor, claimed to be 70% faster than the S2.
Storage: 8GB for GPS-only, 16GB for cellular (to store music and podcasts offline).
Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.2, Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz), and optional LTE (only on cellular model).
Sensors: Heart rate sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope, and barometric altimeter.
Battery: Up to 18 hours mixed usage, 10 hours of GPS workout tracking.
Water resistance: 50 meters (suitable for swimming).
Operating system: watchOS 4 at launch, upgradeable to watchOS 8 (final major version).

The cellular model used an eSIM (embedded SIM) rather than a physical SIM card. This meant you had to activate it through your carrier, and the watch shared your phone number with your iPhone. The red dot on the Digital Crown became the iconic visual cue for the cellular version.

How the Cellular Model Works

The Series 3 cellular model uses a technology called “NumberSync” or “One Number” (depending on your carrier). It mirrors your iPhone’s number, so calls and texts to your phone also appear on the watch. The watch connects to LTE networks independently, but it still requires a paired iPhone for initial setup and for some features like iMessage activation.

When the watch is away from your iPhone, it can:

Make and receive phone calls
Send and receive iMessages and SMS texts
Stream Apple Music and podcasts
Use Maps, Siri, and other apps that require data
Send and receive walkie-talkie messages (watchOS 5 and later)

However, the battery drains faster when using LTE. Apple rated the cellular model for about 4 hours of talk time, compared to 18 hours of mixed usage. Also, not all carriers supported the Series 3 at launch; it took months for some regional carriers to add eSIM support.

Common Problems and Limitations

Despite its popularity, the Series 3 had several known issues:

Storage constraints: The 8GB GPS-only model had very little free space after the system took its share. Users often saw “Storage Full” errors when trying to update watchOS or download music. Apple later reduced the size of watchOS updates, but the problem persisted.
Slow performance: The S3 chip was a big jump from the S2, but by watchOS 7 and 8, the Series 3 struggled with animations and app loading. Many users reported lag when opening apps or using Siri.
No ECG or blood oxygen: The Series 3 lacks the electrical heart sensor (ECG) that came with Series 4, and the blood oxygen sensor that came with Series 6. If you need those health features, the Series 3 is not for you.
No always-on display: The screen only lights up when you raise your wrist or tap it. This was standard at the time, but later models added an always-on option.
Obsolete in watchOS 9: Apple dropped support for the Series 3 in watchOS 9 (released in 2022). This means it no longer receives software updates, which is a security and compatibility concern.

How to Choose a Series 3 Today

If you’re considering buying a Series 3 in 2025 (new or used), here are the key factors:

Price: It’s often the cheapest Apple Watch available, especially on the used market. But newer budget options like the Apple Watch SE (first and second generation) offer better performance and longer support.
Compatibility: The Series 3 requires an iPhone 6s or later with iOS 14 or later. It won’t work with Android phones, and it doesn’t support Family Setup (which allows a watch for a child without an iPhone).
Health features: If you only need basic heart rate monitoring, step counting, and workout tracking, the Series 3 is adequate. But if you want fall detection, ECG, or blood oxygen, look at Series 4 or newer.
Battery health: Used Series 3 watches may have degraded batteries. Check the battery health in the Settings app (Settings > Battery > Battery Health). If it’s below 80%, you might need a replacement.
Software updates: Since the Series 3 is stuck on watchOS 8, it won’t get new features or security patches. Some apps may stop working as they require newer watchOS versions.

For most people in 2025, a used Series 4 or 5 (or a new SE) is a better value than a Series 3, even if it costs a bit more. The Series 3 is best for someone who wants a very basic smartwatch for notifications and fitness tracking, and is willing to accept no future updates.

Comparison: Series 3 vs. Later Models

Here’s a quick comparison of the Series 3 with the Series 4 and the first-generation SE:

Processor: S3 vs. S4 (Series 4) vs. S5 (SE). The S4 is roughly twice as fast as the S3, and the S5 is similar to the S4.
Display: Series 3 has a smaller, non-LTPO display with thick bezels. Series 4 and SE have a larger display with rounded corners and an always-on option (except SE).
Health sensors: Series 4 added ECG and fall detection. SE has the same sensors as Series 3 (no ECG, no blood oxygen).
Storage: Series 3 has 8GB (GPS) or 16GB (cellular). Series 4 and SE have 32GB.
Software support: Series 3 is stuck on watchOS 8. Series 4 and SE support watchOS 10 (and likely watchOS 11 for SE).
Price: Series 3 is cheaper, but the gap narrows when you consider the longer lifespan of newer models.

In short, the Series 3 is a relic of 2017. It works, but it’s slow and outdated. If you can afford the extra $50â€“$100, a used Series 4 or SE is a much better experience.

Cost and Value in 2025

As of 2025, you can find used Apple Watch Series 3 units for around $30â€“$80 depending on condition and accessories. New-old-stock units might be slightly more, but they’re rare. The cellular model is often cheaper than the GPS-only because carriers no longer support the eSIM activation for this old model in some regions.

Before buying, check if your carrier still supports the Series 3 cellular. Many carriers have dropped support for older eSIM watches, meaning the cellular feature might be useless. In that case, the GPS-only model is a safer bet.

Also, consider the cost of a replacement battery. Apple charges about $79 for a battery replacement on the Series 3, which might be more than the watch is worth. If the battery health is below 80%, factor that into the purchase price.

Safety and Security Considerations

Since the Series 3 no longer receives watchOS updates, it’s vulnerable to security issues that Apple has patched in newer versions. This is a real concern if you use the watch for Apple Pay, which stores your credit card information. Even though Apple Pay uses tokenization, an unpatched vulnerability could theoretically compromise your data.

Additionally, the Series 3 lacks the emergency SOS features that come with newer models. It does have a built-in emergency SOS that calls local emergency services when you press and hold the side button, but it doesn’t have fall detection (which requires the S4 chip or later). If you’re an older adult or someone prone to falls, this is a significant limitation.

Finally, the Series 3’s battery is not user-replaceable. If the battery swells or fails, you’ll need to send it to Apple or a third-party repair shop. Swollen batteries are a fire hazard, so if you notice the screen lifting or the back bulging, stop using the watch and have it serviced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Apple Watch Series 3 still supported?

No, Apple ended software support for the Series 3 after watchOS 8. The final version is watchOS 8.8.1, released in 2023. This means no new features, bug fixes, or security patches. Some third-party apps may still work, but they may require a newer watchOS to run.

Can I use the Series 3 without an iPhone?

No, the Series 3 requires an iPhone for initial setup and for most functions. Even the cellular model needs a paired iPhone to receive calls and texts. You cannot use it as a standalone device without an iPhone.

Does the Series 3 have GPS?

Yes, both the GPS-only and cellular models have built-in GPS. You can track outdoor workouts without your iPhone. The GPS is accurate for distance and pace, but it doesn’t have the dual-frequency GPS found in later models, so it may be less accurate in dense urban areas.

Is the Series 3 good for swimming?

Yes, the Series 3 is water resistant to 50 meters, which means it’s safe for swimming in a pool or the ocean. It can track swimming workouts and count laps. However, it doesn’t have a depth gauge like the Ultra, so it’s not for scuba diving.

What watchOS version can the Series 3 run?

The Series 3 can run watchOS 4 through watchOS 8. The last version is 8.8.1. It cannot run watchOS 9 or later. To check the current version, go to Settings > General > About on the watch.

Is the Series 3 worth buying in 2025?

Only if you find it extremely cheap (under $50) and you understand its limitations. It’s fine for basic notifications and fitness tracking, but it’s slow, has no future updates, and lacks modern health features. For a bit more money, a used Series 4 or 5 offers a much better experience.

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