Apple will reportedly release two different next-gen Apple Watch devices, according to a well-connected analyst.
In a note sent to investors over the weekend, KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claims Apple will launch a slight iterative improvement on the Apple Watch later this year, boasting the same overall design but an improved 16nm processor and improved waterproofing. However, really keen Apple Watch enthusiasts will also be able to get the Apple Watch 2, which will reportedly add a host of other improvements.
According to Kuo, these improvements will include a GPS radio and barometer for improved geolocation capabilities, as well as a higher-capacity battery. Kuo thinks Apple is likely to ship between 10 million and 11 million of its combined next-gen Apple Watches, which represents an increase from 7 million to 7.5 million on his original forecast.
He adds that more radical design changes will likely arrive sometime in 2018, including added health-tracking applications and possible Food and Drug Administration approval.
Do you think Apple would be smart to further split the Apple Watch into higher and lower-spec variations variations at this point in the product’s life? Leave your comments below.
Via: AI
Luke Dormehl is a U.K.-based journalist and author, with a background working in documentary film for Channel 4 and the BBC. He is the author of The Apple Revolution and The Formula: How Algorithms Solve All Our Problems … and Create More, both published by Penguin/Random House. His tech writing has also appeared in Wired, Fast Company, Techmeme and other publications.
3 responses to “Apple Watch product line could split in two this year”
1) Faster processor made by TSMC
Current Watch should be fast enough with WatchOS 3
2) GPS
I don’t need that
3) Barometer:
Interesting for climbers or else, but for weather there’s an app for this..
4) ‘Superior’ waterproofing
Never had any problem, even in pools
5) Larger capacity battery
Always has about 30-50% left each day
6) No LTE support until 2017
Now that would make me buy it
So I might skip this one and go for the 2017… Never thought I would say that!
Split in two categories? According to the iPad products line (iPad Air, 1,2 & Pro 9,7) is likely to see more watches
I think it’s a smart decision. Not everyone on this planet has a “thick wallet” and subcategorizing the products is of course a good effort to meet a well placed price/performance point. However following past years statistical average…isn’t it that customers always want the most hard core versions?