According to a report by Reuters, Taiwan-based Quanta Computers – one of Apple’s iPod and laptop suppliers – will begin mass production of the smartwatch in July, with a commercial launch scheduled for October.
The article, which cited anonymous sources “familiar with the matter”, stated the iWatch was likely to feature a display 2.5 inches in length diagonally, with a watch face that would “protrude slightly from the band, creating an arched shape”.
Electronics company LG reportedly would be the exclusive screen supplier for the first batch of iWatches, said to include a touch interface and wireless charging capabilities.
The sources further claimed that while the iWatch would be able to perform some functions independently, it would still need to be paired with an Apple smartphone for features such as messaging and voice chat, and would only be compatible with other Apple devices.
iOS 8 preview fuels rumours
Apple’s recent preview of the iOS 8 at the Apple Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) has also served to encourage speculation that the technology giant is positioning itself for an iWatch release.
Jeweller has previously reported on rumours regarding the iWatch having a strong health and fitness focus. Apple’s announcement that iOS 8 features a Health app seems to confirm those suspicions, with theories circulating that the iWatch would incorporate the sensors required to track fitness activities, and monitor heart rate and blood pressure – functionality that smartphones lack.
On its website, Apple stated, “The new Health app gives you an easy-to-read dashboard of your health and fitness data. And we’ve created a new tool for developers called HealthKit, which allows all the incredible health and fitness apps to work together, and work harder, for you. It just might be the beginning of a health revolution.”
Apple reportedly expects to ship 50 million units within the product’s first year, but the company has yet to release any official statements relating to the development of a smartwatch.
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