The highly anticipated OnePlus Watch 3 is back on the market after a tumultuous launch period filled with complications. Initially unveiled in February and set for shipping on February 25, the release faced delays due to an embarrassing printing error, with some customers receiving their watches early but being offered free returns over the error on the device's casing. Now, the smartwatch is available for order again directly from the OnePlus website in the US.
However, there's a catch: the Watch 3 is now priced at an astonishing $499.99, significantly increased from its original listing of $329.99, marking a 51% price jump. While OnePlus has yet to clarify the reasoning behind this steep rise, it appears linked to the ongoing tariff battles between the US and China, where the device is manufactured.
This dramatic price increase raises concerns about the Watch 3's potential success in the competitive US market. With a price point so much higher than initially promised, it may deter many potential buyers. The Watch 3 is undoubtedly a high-quality product, following the solid legacy of the OnePlus Watch 2, which was well-received in the Wear OS space. Fans are hopeful this isn't the end of OnePlus's foray into smartwatches, as they've established themselves as a leader in the Wear OS market.
