Sapphire Glass Troubles Apple, iWatch Release Date Delayed
Rumors of the release of Apple’s iWatch have been flying high for a long time. Seems like we’d have to wait a little while longer before we have the device wrapped around our wrists. The latest speculation suggests that the device could be delayed from September to October, while some even believe that it might be slated for a November release.
Apple has supposedly been working on their version of a smartwatch since 2011. Well, it has taken them way too long, hopefully they’re working on something substantial and path-breaking, which would be worth the wait.
Meanwhile, Apple refuses to confirm the development or the existence of the smartwatch. Re/Code, independent tech news reporters, which are considered reliable sources, said the rumored wrist item would be introduced in October. “People familiar with Apple’s plans tell Re/code that the company hopes to schedule a special event that month to show off the device,” their website quoted. It is also purported that the iWatch will likely to be integrated with the new Healthkit app that is to be introduced with iOS 8. It is said to display all the essential health-related information recorded by the watch.
Apple’s iwatch concept
In June, Reuters revealed the Cupertino-based company’s plan on making multiple screen sizes and designs for market release this fall, which was supported by a leaked patent from USPTO indicating a multitude of smartwatch devices. The patent mentioned of a device called “iTime” that deals with convertible and removable parts from a central unit. Apple has also allegedly sought an “iWatch” patent in Japan recently.
According to KGI analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who also, has been a reliable source for predicting Apple product plans in the past, said that the iWatch is believed to debut later than expected, due to complications related to both the new hardware and software. “We have pushed back our estimated time of iWatch mass production from late-September to mid/late-November. We also lower our forecast of iWatch 2014 shipments by 40% to 3 million units,” said Kuo.
The reason, Kuo pointed out, is the ongoing issue of sapphire glass covered lens production. This suggested further that Apple could only be shipping half of the targeted units with sapphire-covered features while the other half with the old Gorilla Glass close, at the end of the year.
It is also reported that Apple is taking the luxury route, targeting the “geek to chic” market by wooing Swiss watchmakers ‘Swatch’ to partner with them. “Fashion is the name of the game; most expensive model is likely to be priced at several thousand US dollars. Referring to the rules of the fashion market, we predict the iWatch casing and band will come in various materials. The most expensive model of the iWatch line will carry a price tag of several thousand US dollars,” Kuo added.
