This latest development has Apple commentators – and the world is full of them – once again speculating that the iWatch has moved a step closer to production.
Jeweller first reported on Boxing Day 2011 that an iWatch was in the wings. Since then – around 30 months ago – the world has guessed and second-guessed a release date, a design, myriad features, upsides and downsides, all to no avail.
Apple is keeping its iWatch cards very close to its chest, without denying or confirming that it is producing such a gadget.
While the smartwatch concept is not new, one would expect an Apple wristwatch-like device would shake-up both the technology and watch industries at the same time, as occurred in the music industry when the original iPod was launched.
However, more recently Apple’s major technology opponents like Google, Samsung and Sony have had the jump on the company once renowned as the technology game-changer.
Lately, these other companies have wrested back the high ground with devices like Samsung’s Galaxy smartphone, Google Glasses and even Sony’s SmartWatch (Android-powered, waterproof, near field communication equipped, blue tooth and more).
However, just when it looked like Apple was sitting on its hands, new CEO Tim Cook’s statement in May this year about the “profound” opportunity wearable electronics offers had the rumour mill running at warp speed again.
But is this recent move the real deal or just a smoke screen, as some technology industry commentators believe? Apple’s share price is half of what it was just nine months ago (now at US$400) and, understandably, investors want to see some action.
Some Apple followers have suggested the iPhone and iPad have gone just about as far as they can go. The next iterations of these devices won’t be ground-breaking. That leaves “wearable technology” … or an iWatch as the next big thing. Or has Apple got something else up (or on) its sleeve?
There is some speculation that if Apple isn’t developing an iWatch and has only registered a trademark, it is either to throw competitors off its scent or at least block others from stealing away more ground. And potentially gives investors hope.
More reading:
Apple CEO hints at smartwatch
Will apple launch an iWatch?