Apple Watch 2 release date, news and rumors
Update: Apple Watch 2 rumors about the release date, price and GPS chip are at a fever-pitch with WWDC happening today at 10am PDT (1pm EDT, 6pm BST). To keep up to date with the latest news be sure to follow our live blog. Even Tim Cook seems to be lauding the Apple Watch 2 and its grand possibilities. Here’s what we’ve heard.
The Apple Watch 2 release date is shrouded in so much mystery that not even Siri knows the answer, despite her advanced knowledge of the company’s WWDC 2016 conference dates.
Asking my Apple Watch “When does the Apple Watch 2 come out?” only gets me to this message: “Apple.com should be able to answer that question. Continue on the iPhone.”
There are two important things you should know about this answer. First, of course Apple’s official website doesn’t reveal such juicy information. I’ve checked. Everyday.
Second, this is one of the many areas in which the Apple Watch throws you to the iPhone instead of handling tasks itself. Obviously, there’s plenty of room for improvement and a need for a sequel.
Siri, apps and fitness tracking need a serious tune up, and more sensors and even greater waterproof guarantees should be added in Apple Watch for 2016.
There’s tangential evidence that such an iPhone-compatible smartwatch for 2016 is in development at the Cupertino company. Let’s get into the latest rumors point-by-point.
Cut to the chase
- What is it? The second generation Apple Watch
- When is it out? At WWDC on June 13 or September’s iPhone 7 launch
- What will it cost? Probably a lot, similar to the current Watch
Apple Watch 2 release date
Although Siri didn’t answer my question about the Apple Watch 2 release date, there are at least two distinct points in 2016 in which I could see the company’s next wearable launch.
Unsurprisingly, we didn’t see next iPhone-compatible smartwatch announced on March 21, as some had previously thought. An annual cycle for the wearable is a bit overeager for even diehard Apple fans.
Instead, iPhone SE and iPad Pro 9.7 graced the stage. Oh, yes, Apple Watch was there, too – and not just the white one on CEO Tim Cook’s wrist. New Apple Watch bands and a lower price were all we got.
That means the launch may happen either tomorrow, June 13 alongside iOS 10 at Apple’s WWDC 2016 event, or in September along with the likely iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus debut.
Of the two release dates, the more cautious September launch sounds a lot like Apple’s slow and steady approach to new product categories. It never strives to be first, just “best.”
However, a WWDC 2016 announcement would still go along with the Q2 2016 release date estimate that the chairman for Apple Watch supplier Quanta hinted at.
Barry Lam from Quanta said in 2015, “Quanta and Apple are currently developing the second-generation of the Apple Watch, expected late next year in the second quarter.”
A new report suggests that Apple Watch supplier Quanta will be responsible for all the production on the Apple Watch 2, as the company has lowered its order from its initial estimates.
Sources from the upstream supply chain suggest the Apple Watch 2 will go into production in Q2, suggesting it’ll be launched before the expected iPhone 7 launch in September.
This would give Apple enough time to tinker with its smartwatch and not make early adopters feel too cheaped with a rigid 12-month-upgrade schedule. Whether it’s a true reinvention for a incremental Apple Watch S upgrade remains to be seen.
Apple Watch 2 price
There may be some wiggle room with the Apple Watch price, considering US retailers had the iPhone smartwatch on sale for some time before the company recently lowered the official price.
It launched at a hard-to-justify starting price of $349 (£299, AU$499), and the unofficial price drop during Black Friday took it down to $299 at some stores. Four months later, Apple made it official.
Introducing the Apple Watch 2 at this new price from the get-go would put the gadget in more hands and on more wrists. Just don’t expect the gold Apple Watch Edition price to budge from $17,000 (£13,500, AU$24,000).
Tim Cook promises Apple Watch will be better
Apple CEO Tim Cook just teased that “you’ll see the Apple Watch getting better and better,” and he soon expects “people will say, ‘How could I have ever thought about not wearing this watch?'”
He could be hinting at an inevitable watchOS 3 software update, it’ll take an Apple Watch 2 hardware announcement to meet those high expectations. Ipso facto, he just confirmed the new Apple Watch.
Right now, plenty of people can live without the Apple Watch, and even Cook acknowledges this: “We’re still in learning mode. We’re learning fairly quickly, though. We know a lot more than we did a year ago.”
There’s a lot of promise behind these statements, even if the Apple boss doesn’t distinctly mention the Apple Watch 2 by name.
Apple Watch 2 news and rumors
Watch OS 2 was a small step forward with improvements, like better native app support, tetherless Wi-Fi and the ability to watch videos, reply to emails and make FaceTime audio calls.
New Apple Watch 2 features, coupled with a watchOS 3 update, are bound to let you do more directly from the smartwatch, too. The rumor of a GPS chip for running, without your phone in tow, persists.
Most recently, we heard that the next Apple Watch will be thinner by measures of up to a 40% reduction in thickness. However, that could be meant for the Apple Watch 3.
There’s a good chance that the next Apple Watch won’t mix things up much in terms of design. Or at all, if Ming-Chi Quo’s insider knowledge ends up becoming truth.
Apple wearable won’t boast any visual changes to the design, according his sources as reported by to AppleInsider. A more significant Apple Watch refresh could happen some time after, possibly in 2017.
While he suggests that the design might not change one bit in the next Apple Watch, the specs, as you’d imagine, will be getting a big boost. We’re currently unsure of exactly which components will be improved upon, but it’s relatively safe to assume we might see a bump up in screen resolution, onboard storage and battery life.
A new wireless chipset is said to allow for basic communication tasks to be handled without a paired iPhone, and the same technology may also mean that lost Apple Watches could be found using Wi-Fi triangulation.
A source talking to Phone Arena went on to claim that the Apple Watch 2 will have a video camera, allowing users to make and receive video FaceTime calls rather than just audio ones.
New models might be launched too, providing users with more than just the standard, Sport and Edition versions available now. It’s not clear exactly what form these new models will take, but new materials could be on the cards, such as titanium, platinum and perhaps even Liquidmetal.
But if you’re hoping the appearance will change or we’ll see a circular smartwatch from Apple you might be out of luck, as another leak suggests that the Apple Watch 2 will have the same screen size, shape and resolution as the first Apple Watch – this is the way the Cupertino firm does things, after all.
One thing which will apparently change according to the same source is the thickness of the screen, which will be made thinner to allow for a larger battery. Yet that clashes with previous rumors that the juice pack will be staying the same, albeit with possible software improvements to improve its life.
It could also have a new breed of smart band to go along with it, as a recent patent application has been filed for a strap that has light fibres woven in, meaning you’ll be able to get notifications from your wrist all the way around.
Hopefully it won’t flash or be too overt – simply function as a second screen that could give more information than the smaller screen could.
Overall we’re really not sure what to expect from the Apple Watch 2 just yet, and we’re sure it will hold plenty of surprises and features beyond what we’ve heard so far and beyond what the original Apple Watch (which will be getting Watch OS 2) is capable of.
While the March 21 Apple press conference didn’t usher in the second coming of the Apple Watch, we’ll be scanning the internet and reading between the lines of Apple statement (and the lines of iOS 9.3 code) for even the smallest suggest of the Apple Watch 2 and even a minor Apple Watch S upgrade.
Apple Watch 2: what we want to see
Now we’ve spent a decent chunk of time with the original Apple Watch it’s got us thinking – how can Apple improve on its first wearable? Well, in a number of ways it turns out and most of them haven’t been addressed by Apple Watch OS 2.
So without further ado, here’s what we want to see from the Apple Watch 2.
1. Longer battery life
We never expected the Apple Watch would have great battery life, after all few smartwatches outside of Pebble do really, and with around a day and a half manageable on a single charge we’d like to see a bit more.
Charging a phone once a day is bad enough, but having to charge your watch that frequently (or at all really) is a bit much and the prospect of having your watch run out of battery when you’re away from a charger isn’t terribly appealing either. So we really, really hope that the Apple Watch 2 has better battery life.
We don’t expect miracles, but would two or even three days between charges really be so much to ask?
2. A round face
Some people are probably big fans of the Apple Watch’s square design and we’re not saying the Apple Watch 2 needs to ditch that, but just as the Apple Watch has multiple size options the Apple Watch 2 could offer multiple shape choices, so you can pick between a square and a circle.
That would instantly make it a lot more appealing to a lot more people and it’s a logical evolution of all the customisation options offered by the first gen model, giving you one more way to make the Apple Watch your own.
3. A less chunky design
The Apple Watch is actually a little smaller than most competitors, but it’s still big by wristwatch standards and it’s got a slightly chunky design, so we’d like to see Apple refine that a little.
Chunky is not a word that comes to mind when looking at most Apple products, but we’re hopeful that a change will come there, after all this is a first generation device, so Apple is presumably just focused on getting the basics right.
4. Android compatibility
This won’t happen, but wouldn’t it be amazing if it did? Right now no-one with an Android phone is going to buy the Apple Watch (though Apple is probably hoping a lot of people will switch to an iPhone as a result), but if, IF, the Apple Watch 2 got full Android compatibility then it could become very hard to compete with.
The first gen watch is already almost certainly going to become the bestselling smartwatch by far. If everyone without an iPhone could buy it too then it would surely dwarf the competition. Then again maybe that wouldn’t be such a good thing… we do like choice.
5. More sensors
One of the Apple Watch’s biggest selling points is as a health accessory, but while early rumors pointed to a sensor-packed device, many of those sensors haven’t made the cut.
A mix of hairy arms and inconclusive readings have caused sensors for blood pressure, blood oxygen and stress levels to be removed, so it would be nice to see Apple revisit them for the next version. Plus it turns out tattoos really mess with the heart rate sensor.
Right now the Apple Watch is a decent tool for tracking your health, but it could be a whole lot better.
6. Built in GPS
Similarly the Apple Watch is packed with fitness tracking tools, but one thing it lacks is built-in GPS. As such it can’t be classed as a full-blown running watch. So we’d like to see that added for the Apple Watch 2, enabling runners and cyclists to leave their smartphone at home.
7. Less clicks, more flicks
The digital crown on the Apple Watch is a great idea, but at the moment the interface is perhaps too focused on clicks, with not enough flicks. Which is to say you rarely touch the screen to navigate.
That’s not entirely a bad thing as the display is small and avoiding fingerprints is always a good thing to aim for, but in some ways it seems a step back, when most smart devices are all about interacting directly with a touchscreen. It’s also a little less intuitive than it could be, particularly if you’re used to tapping and swiping on an iPhone.
8. A sharper screen
Depending on which size model you opt for the Apple Watch has a screen resolution of either 340 x 272 or 390 x 312. Given its small size that’s not bad and it’s comparable with many other smartwatches, but right now no smartwatch has a pin-sharp display so that’s something we’d like to see on the Apple Watch 2.
For one thing the lack of visible pixels will make it look more watch-like when using an analogue watch face, but beyond that it’s just nicer looking at a crystal clear screen than a lower resolution one.
9. Lower price
Apple devices are always expensive and with the Apple Watch seemingly positioned as a bit of a luxury item its price is very much on the steep side. In fact is you opt for a Watch Edition version it costs up to a wallet-melting $17,000 / £13,500 / AU$24,000.
If you’re super-rich then that’s fine for a timepiece that won’t be out of date in a year, but even Mr Monopoly might think twice about shelling out that sort of money on a smartwatch.
Even at the lower end prices start at £299 / $349 / AU$499. That’s already more than just about any Android Wear watch and that’s for a sport model. To get a classy look that can compete with say the LG Watch Urbane you’re looking at a starting price of around £559 / $649 / AU$949. That’s insane, so we hope the Apple Watch 2 is little bit more affordable.
If it’s not, at least the current model will be dropped in price to make that the ‘budget’ Apple Watch we’re all craving.
10. More storage
The Apple Watch comes with 8GB of built in storage, which is pretty good by smartwatch standards, except that only 2GB of that can be used for music and just 75MB for photos.
Of course you’ll usually have it paired to an iPhone with far more storage space, but if for example Apple does add GPS so we can go running without our phone then it would be nice to have space for all our tunes.
Source: techradar.com
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ROUND AND WATERPROOF!
i learned not to buy another.
I've learned I like it. What was I going to do? buy a Fitbit?
Nice article but not updated from long. I found Latest Reviews of Apple Watch Here: http://www.brandreviews.org/apple-watch-review-and-guide/ . . . You should read it before buying one for you!!!
They're seriously bringing out another Apple Watch?
Surely everyone who bought one last time has learned their lesson.
wondering how you can just assume that all people don't like the apple watch.
Round is illogical for a smart watch. Waterproof would be nice.
Mine works fine. Bring yours in, it has a warranty,
Gear S2 😀
I am planing on buying the next generation Apple Watch. My biggest complaint would be waterproofing, I want to at least be able to wear my watch in the shower, I will take it off to swim but it should not be the case. More watch independence from the phone, WiFi would be a good start along with GPS.
Not for nothing but I have the Surge and HR is crap not that I'd get the Apple Watch as it lacks GPS and costs twice as much as Surge. Garmin 225 edges out the Fitbit for now but lacks an altimeter and smart notifications, the Vivoactive would be ideal but lacks optical HR. Waiting for Fenix with built in HR, that will be Nirvana.
I can guess its "Apple sux lols?"
Nah, you are thinking of the Microsoft Band.
Well I guess we'll just have to wait and watch.
Wait and watch.
And watch.
Watch.
?
Make it waterproof and give it at least 48 hours of juice during normal usage (and enough juice to track typical biometrics, like heartrate, during an average-length 5K), and it'll be worth finally replacing my Fitbit Surge. Until then, it's too much novelty and not enough practicality.
A camera on the Watch is about as desirable and useless as an a-hole on your elbow. Do you think anyone on the receiving end is really going to relish looking up someone's nose? I second the commentator who sussed this as being by someone who has had little or no actual experience with Apple Watch.
I think the shape issue may disappear if Apple resorts to holographic displays (e.g. Ostendo displays). The watch shape could then vary, but the projector could remain square to maximize screen real estate.
If Apple Watch 2 does not have GPS then I won't buy. I won't have a smart watch that requires me to run with my watch and my phone.
It's not "revert back" it's just "revert". Mine hardly ever connects to my phone for texts if it's in my pocket and always asks what language I want then says message send failure, the whole watch is a failure, it's a piece of crap, an expensive novelty.
Love mine. Had it since it came out and use it every day. Don't wear my Other more expensive watches anymore unless it's a special occasion.
Pros:
Accurate
Loads of features that are on your phone but now on your wrist
Works as a remote for your phone
Phone lost in your couch, it can find it
Is awesome working with your gps while driving
Can use stand alone to run/workout AND listen to music
Can access the internet if your phone has already accessed the hot spot pout your using, goes great with city wide internet like time warner or att
Works in conjunction with the apps on your phone
Can make calls from it
Can send / receive emails from it
Can respond / receive texts from it
Love the Digital Crown
Has Bluetooth capability
Loads more features and you can set it up to work into your life as you would your phone…
This is not meant to replace your phone and the features of your phone, but to enhance the overal experience of using your phone.
Cons:
Dictation can be an issue
Siri is better on your phone
No gps on board
Replacement bands are costly, but cool…
Sometimes the wake on raise feature can be annoying
Battery life is a bit of an issue, but as you should not be on your phone 24/7 so shouldn't you be on the watch
Charging every night needs to be a habit or else the next day sucks
Would be nice to stream some video and video calls
I'll tell you I'm a fan but I understood what this was getting into it. An add on to your iPhone experience. The ability to leave your phone in your purpose or pocket and do things that should only take a second from your wrist…
Those of you addicted to using your phone constantly will find this concept alien, but those of you who wish to be cortious to others and not walk into walls will appreciate this very cool watch. Pricey?? I really did t think so… It's not an iPad, but it is in iPod….
Don't knock it until you've tried it and if you want full feature functionality, you will need way better processing and a larger screen no matter which way you slice it and that won't make a very compact wearable gadget.
As far as waterproof, I've had zero issues in rain, washing hands, are general wet environments. Even went to the gym and forgot it was on my wrist and went into a hot tub for half an hour before I realized. Not one single issue. I've since swam in my pool with it and still no issues. Would I go diving with it on, no!! Why would I need to to?? I would use a watch that has diving features on its face and this one doesn't not. Would a sail with it on? You bet! With Moe fear of falling in the drink. That's already more than you can do in the water with your iPhone…
Think about what this is and why your getting into it… The phone still has its place as do the iPads and iPods of the world, and they make calls the very same way the watch does… So maybe try having an open mind or better yet, get one yourself and take it for a drive, kick the tires and open her up, I'm certain the thing will impress you on some level… My Rolex is jealous of my Apple Watch everyday… Why? 'Cause it tells time better and let's me see my text messages for a fraction of the cost of it… Yes it's more than a timex watch but it's less than a movado watch… About $600 less… All in, mine cost about $400 new from the Apple Store. It's actually the second cheapest watch I own, my Buliva Accutron being a $300 watch and once again, it's not a smart watch….
So it's price point is very reasonable.
All I can say is give it a try, your definately going to get a very accurate time piece that does some pretty neat things dealing with your phone, that's for sure but you also might get a really nice piece of tech that will allow you to keep your phone in your pants while still doing a multiple amount of tasks right from your wrist.
It's not for everyone, and with any idea some people just won't ever get the concept but for those of you who do, you really won't regret it.
Mine proves it worth every day.
At the very least, Apple must make the watch the best voice controlled computer in the industry. Furthermore it has as to have more valuable stand alone (not tethered to an iphone) capability. Then add a battery life of three days and it will be a winner.
So many people complain about this issue. It is water resistant, but who the fuck pays 600-1500 (2nd class watches) for a watch that is vulnerable to water? Every aspect of the 2nd class watches in terms of build is good, you could take a rock to it, destroy the watch while the screen stays in tact. But no waterproof? Too much novelty and not enough practicality.
try not to get so upset.
I went water skiing to Lake Powell late last summer. One of the dudes I went with jumped in the lake constantly with his Apple Watch. Didn't effect it at all. From what I've read, it is waterproof, but the more you do it the faster the water will break down the seals and take out the inside. But as I said. Jumping into the lake didn't effect his at all.