When Apple introduced its smartwatch last fall, the tech giant merely showed the demo models of its new wearable device, focusing on its basic designs and features.
On Monday, Apple gave out more details about the Apple Watch in its Spring Forward event including its starting price and working software, among others.
During the special invite-only event, Apple CEO Tim Cook announced that pre-orders for the watch will begin on April 10; the device will finally go on sale starting April 24.
The impact of the smartwatch on consumers’ daily activities was also demonstrated, such as how photo-sharing through Instagram and other similar apps can be carried out. Photos can be scrolled using the digital crown whereas tapping on a specific image will give more details, such as its location and number of likes.
For WeChat users, incoming messages from friends can be displayed; users can even send their own response with a single tap. They can either choose a response from an official list of replies, or speak their own response aloud.
The wearable is also compatible with taxi service-hailing app Uber as well as with Apple Pay for convenient mobile payment transactions. Interestingly, hailing a cab will have the user’s location pinged and an estimate will be given regarding the amount of time needed to pick up the user. These Apple Watch owners will receive real time updates about the location of the driver and other relevant information.
Users were also shown a quick look of Facebook when used on the Apple Watch; what is known for certain is that users will be informed about incoming notifications while wearing the device.
Additionally, a demo was also shown as to how the smartwatch’s users can easily interact with Siri. Kevin Lynch, one of Apple's chief software developers, demonstrated how individuals could make the most of the Apple watch during a trip, such as for airport check-in procedures, inquiries for hotel front desks, and even the unlocking of hotel doors.
In terms of battery life, the Apple Watch can be expected to last for less than a day as it offers an 18-hour battery life for average use.
The Cupertino company announced pricing details for the wearable, with the Apple Watch Sport having a starting price of $349 for the smaller variant (38mm) and $399 for the larger model (42mm).
The standard Apple Watch will come with a starting price of $549 and can range up to $1,049 depending on the band that customers purchase with the watch.
For the gold Apple Watch Edition, individuals who are planning to purchase this high-end device should prepare a whopping $10,000, a premium price that is deemed appropriate for the watch’s 18-karat gold body.
