Apple Watch Series 3 Case and Band Combinations (Still) Don't Make Sense
The Apple Watch Series 3 looks like a winner. Still, the limited number of case and band combinations available still doesn’t make sense. Take a look.
Very early this morning, the alarm on my Nike+ Apple Watch Series 2 woke me so I could purchase its successor. My initial thought was not to order an Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) version. In the end, however, my obsessive need for new technology took over. Next Friday, Sept. 22, I’ll join other early buyers and receive my first cellular-capable Apple Watch.
I didn’t know until the last minute which case and band combination to choose. Once AT&T’s website went online, I finally decided to purchase the Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) with the silver aluminum case and fog sport band.
My preferred choice, however, would have been to purchase the Watch without a band.
As I first noted in March, I’ve become a strong believer Apple should offer Watches without a band. No longer linking an Apple Watch purchase to a particular band would be a win for everyone involved.
For Apple, it would mean fewer inventory headaches. For you as a buyer, it would mean getting the band that you want (or not).
My preferred choice, however, would have been to purchase the Watch without a band.
Apple obviously didn’t listen to me. Instead, this week they announced 31 watch and band combinations (up from 17 in August). Many of these don’t make sense.
For example,
- Do you want a sport band with your regular stainless steel Apple Watch Series 3? You can have this in any color, as long as it’s soft white.
- Want a stainless steel Apple Watch Series 3 (regular or space black) with a leather band? You’re out of luck because this combination doesn’t exist.
- Eyeing the Apple Watch Edition (starting at $1,299) with a gray ceramic case? It only comes with a $49 sport band.
I have a new idea for Apple to ponder since it’s apparent they will never uncouple an Apple Watch purchase from a band. During the checkout process, allow the customer to pair the Apple Watch with any available band. In doing so, when your order arrives, you’ll receive the Apple Watch and band in separate boxes. How’s that sound, Apple?
What are you thoughts? Did you make a new Apple Watch purchase? Which model did you buy?
Did You Buy an Apple Watch Series 3 With or Without Cellular?
— AppAdvice (@AppAdvice) September 15, 2017
