Apple Watch 2 Release Date, Leaks and Updates: GPS and Water Proofing Included? Price Details and Features
Will Apple Finally Deliver New Features that Users Really Need?
The iPhone 7 will not be the only Apple product we will be seeing on September 7. With the emergence of smartwatches and its steady rise in the mobile tech field, the Apple Watch 2 wants to step up its predecessor's game by integrating new innovations for the end buyers.
Display and Design
The biggest rumor perhaps regarding the upgraded display of the Apple Watch 2 is with its usage of Micro LED technology. Last year's iteration used an OLED panel, similar to its Samsung competitor. However, the new Micro LED screen would offer broader colors and more brightness, making it more efficient performance and battery-wise.
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The Apple Watch 2 is also said to be 40 percent thinner than its predecessor. Aside from this, Apple would still be offering the same shape, sizes, and variants of the smartwatch.
GPS and Barometer
Last year's Apple Watch model did not have GPS features. The lack of a GPS chipset was received with an outrage as it was deemed essential, especially for fitness tracking. Tethering the smartwatch to an iPhone, which is then connected to GPS, initially solved this. This entails a lot of hassle to the users as carrying a separate device while doing physical activities pose some safety issues.
However, cellular connectivity may be the factor hindering the Apple Watch iterations from having a GPS connection. If the new cellular technology gets finalized before the release of Apple Watch 2, then maybe GPS support would be possible, a report said.
A barometer sensor is also expected, as it would perform the basic function of measuring atmospheric pressure. This would work hand-in-hand with the GPS radio for a more accurate geolocation tagging.
Waterproofing
This seems like an obvious choice for an upgrade, given the device's nature and the new iPhones getting waterproofed. While the current Apple Watch is water resistant, it could only stand dips through water and some running water pressure.
The IPx7 of the new iPhones, or even an IP-68 rating of Samsung's Gear S3, is expected to be incorporated in the new smartwatch. Smartwatch competitors such as Pebble, Misfit, and Withings already offer devices users can take swimming for prolonged periods of time.
Power
The new Apple Watch 2 is expected to come with an ARM Cortex A32 chipset. This processor would be 25 percent faster than the current offering of Cortex A7. It would also be more battery efficient, balancing performance and power with battery life.
Apple is also reportedly working on an extended battery life. With the current 42mm variant packing 250 mAh and the 38mm sporting a 205 mAh one, we should be expecting bigger capacities for the Apple Watch 2. Third-party straps with built-in battery packs would also be supported.
Price
The original Apple Watch base model was unveiled with a $349 price tag. Due to low market reception, it was cut to $299 shortly after the release. The Apple Watch 2 is predicted to come out on September 7 with the same $349 price point given its upgraded specs.
