Apple is expected to release its Apple Watch 2 in September at a press event. It has been reported that the gadget will include GPS for fitness features but will lack cellular connectivity. The smartwatch is expected to be launched along with iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus.
It's been nearly 15 months since the first generation Apple Watch was released and the company is taking every step necessary to make sure the smartwatch launch goes without a hiccup. The release of Apple Watch in April 2015 was viewed as one of the company's biggest stumbles for a new device launch, writes Tech Times.
Right after Apple opened its online store and started accepting pre-orders for Apple Watch, customers were left thoroughly disappointed as they received out-of-stock messages for most models. Those who were able to get their hands on the wanted device received an expected ship date as late as June 2015.
A Bloomberg report claimed that Tim Cook-led Apple would be including a cellular radio inside Apple Watch 2. This would excuse the device from requiring iPhone connectivity. The company had been talks with mobile phone carriers in Europe and the US to add cellular connectivity to the watch.
Such a chip would theoretically allow users to download emails, sports alerts and mapping information even when an iPhone is out of reach. However, Apple executives expressed concerns as they thought such a feature would require time and hence pushed back the release to a later generation.
On the other hand, the included GPS chip will endow users with improved health and fitness tracking capabilities and more precise navigation.
On the design front, Apple Watch and Apple Watch 2 are more like identical twins. The device will be boosted with upgrades such as an improved waterproof case, high-capacity battery and a faster processor.
The upcoming watchOS 3, also slated to be released in September for the first generation Apple Watch, may also grace Apple Watch 2. The new operating system will include new health and fitness capabilities, a dedicated Dock for storing favorite apps and lightning fast application launch.
"Apple Watch is the ultimate companion for a healthy life and with watchOS 3, there's now even more to love. Favorite apps launch instantly and are simple to access, and the breakthrough new fitness and health features like the Breathe app make it feel like a whole new watch," Apple's chief operating officer, Jeff Williams, said in a watchOS 3 review.