Still clinging to your Apple Watch Series 3? Don’t worry, I can assure you that you are not the only one. Now, let’s be honest, in 2025, hasn’t it started to feel a little vintage?
You must have noticed it lagging, or the apps misbehaving, or maybe you are just wondering if Apple even remembers it exists.
Are you thinking about upgrading? You must be curious about whether it’s still supported, or just trying to figure out if it’s worth keeping around a bit longer. Whatever is on your mind, you have come to the right place because I will help you sort it all out.
Does it Still Get Updates?
No, the Apple Watch Series 3 does not get software updates anymore. The last update it got was watchOS 8.8.1, back in June 2023.
After that, Apple pulled the plug on it with the launch of watchOS 9 in September 2022.
If you are wondering why you can’t update your Series 3 anymore, that is because it is officially no longer on Apple’s list.
Timeline of Software Support
September 2017: Apple Watch Series 3 released.
September 2021: WatchOS 8 was introduced, which marked the last major update compatible with the Series 3.
September 2022: WatchOS 9 was released; Series 3 was not supported.
June 2023: WatchOS 8.8.1 was released, which served as the final update for the series.
I must say that for an Apple product, it had a surprisingly long run… Kind of like that friend who never leaves the party.
What This Means For Series 3 Owners
Now it must be very clear to you that your Series 3 won’t receive any new features or bug fixes. However, it doesn’t render the device useless. You will still get basic functionalities like time, fitness tracking, and notifications working well.
However, you also need to keep these things in mind:
- App compatibility: Newer apps might not support watchOS 8, which can lead to potential issues or a lack of access.
- Performance: Over time, you might notice slower performance or glitches.
- Security: Without updates, your device will be vulnerable to security risks.
Can You Still Use It In 2025?
Yes, absolutely, but with a lot of caveats and only if your patience is saint-like and your expectations live permanently in 2017.
If you are using the Series 3 for basic tasks, like tracking workouts, checking the time, or receiving notifications, it will still serve its purpose.
Now here’s where things get dicey. The lag is highly annoying, and Siri’s responses are super slow.
Use it for the basics, sure, but for the love of all things smooth and snappy, don’t expect miracles or even moderate responsiveness.
Time To Upgrade? or Nah?
If you are craving a smoother experience that doesn’t involve yelling “COME ON” at your wrist every five minutes, it might be time to level up.
I suggest going for the Apple Watch SE. It’s like the glow-up your Series 3 dreamt of. It is sleek, fast, and does not act like it’s loading from a floppy disk. It has got the essentials you need, without draining your bank account or your sanity. If you want to get the full experience, then I suggest Series 8 or the Ultra 2.
You will get next-gen health features, faster performance, brighter display, and battery life that doesn’t flinch the whole day. So yeah, if your Series 3 is testing your last nerve, treat yourself; your wrist deserves better.
Wrap Up
The Apple Watch Series 3 has had a good run; it has proven itself to be a real trooper. It’s plucky, dependable, and still knows how to tell the time like a champ.
Sure, it can still track your steps, give you the occasional notifications (after a dramatic pause), and kind of keep up with your workouts, but the thing is, tech years are like dog years.
So if you want lightning-fast performance, plus your peace of mind, then it might be time to explore the newer models. Your wrist and your sanity will thank you.
