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Updated: Our overview of the Apple Watch now includes updates with pricing and availability.
Back in August, we argued that smartwatches simply weren’t worth the investment (yet, anyway) for most people. Unlike smartphones, the addition of a computer on the wrist seems superfluous and destined to satisfy a very specific niche, we said. At their core, all smartwatches to date have simply functioned as secondary notification devices with a few tidbits tacked on here and there. The question, of course, was whether or not Apple’s entry into the space would break away from that mold in any significant manner. Now that the company’s annual September event has concluded and the Apple Watch has been unveiled, it looks as if we have our answer.
What Is Apple Watch?
Ever since Apple CEO Tim Cook confessed that the wearables sector was “incredibly interesting” in an interview in May of 2013, we’ve all assumed that an iWatch of some sort was imminent. This is Apple’s first wearable product of any kind, and the company is calling it its most “personal” product yet. It actually looks a lot like smartwatches from last year — a rectangular (not round) face, a bulky chassis to house a bulky battery, and an interchangeable band. Outside of the standard watch, there’s a “Sport” version that’s more durable and geared for fitness use as well as an “Edition” variant that’s encased in 18-karat gold. Apple isn’t divulging battery life estimates yet, probably because those aren’t final. All-day longevity has been the engineering hurdle of smartwatch development, and no watch maker has thus far been able to produce a truly all-day smartwatch that isn’t unsatisfactorily thick.
The Apple Watch only functions alongside an iPhone 5 or newer and won’t work with iPad or older iPhone units. Because there’s no SIM inside, its functionality is limited when not within range of a connected iPhone. But is capable of running apps from both Apple and third-party developers. The latter will start to surface once these devices start shipping “early next year.” You’ll find plenty of band options, from leathers to sweat proof rubber ones, and there are four sensors on the rear used for keeping track of your pulse. Mentioned almost as an afterthought, the Watch will be sold in two face sizes (large and less large), but no specifications were revealed. We’re guessing the smaller of the two will suit petite folks and children more adequately.
In a nutshell, it tells time, channels notifications from your iPhone, allows you to respond to said notifications, and allows you to interact with miniaturized versions of your favorite apps. It also acts as an Apple TV remote, an Apple Pay terminal, and “much more” to be revealed closer to launch.
