Quick Thoughts on Apple Watch
by Joshua Ho on September 9, 2014 8:16 PM EST
While I'm still unsure on what wearables should actually do, I managed to get some photos of the Apple Watch. Unfortunately I wasn't really able to find any units available for a hands-on, and as far as I can tell it wasn't possible to actually try any of the software yet. However, based upon what I've seen Apple brings at least a few great ideas to the table. The digital dial/crown is definitely one of them, as it opens up the door to all kinds of new possibilities for navigation that are currently either impractical or impossible for wearables that don't have this hardware feature. In addition, Apple's strong emphasis on personalization with two sizes, three editions, and six watch bands is something that all OEMs should pay attention to. Finally, the dedicated SoC for the Apple Watch is something that is absolutely necessary to enable a good user experience as space is so critical on these wearables. There's also no question that Apple has done a great job of focusing on industrial and material design, as it looks like all three versions of the watch have premium materials and excellent fit and finish. While it isn't clear what display is used, it seems likely that it's an OLED display judging by the amount of black in some of the watchfaces, although ambient lighting in the demo area made it hard to tell whether this was the case.
However, my reservations are largely similar to concerns that I have with all wearables. Ultimately, the Apple Watch must provide utility that's strong enough to make me turn around and get it if I forget it. As-is, I don't really think that even the Apple Watch has that level of utility, even if it is excellently executed. Of course, this is also based upon a demo unit that I wasn't able to touch or use.
Of course, a few concerns remain, mostly in the area of battery life as it seems that only the Pebble line of wearables can really deliver enough battery life to not worry about charging a wearable on any sort of regular schedule. At any rate, I've attached a gallery of photos below for those interested in seeing all the various combinations of watches that Apple will make.
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B3an - Tuesday, September 9, 2014 - link
Ugly, tacky, pointless.yannigr2 - Wednesday, September 10, 2014 - link
You have a very stylish LG Watch R and a 3G Samsung Gear S. No reason to buy this one.mschira - Wednesday, September 10, 2014 - link
Hm, why does it seem like I am the only one finding it really ugly?Making a good looking smart watch is hard, I get it. But Apple watch is pretty close to the top of the ugliness scale.
Not?
M.
Shadowmaster625 - Wednesday, September 10, 2014 - link
The idea that millions of debt-laden Americans are going to rush out and drop $350 on a watch is insane all by itself. But when you consider what this watch is supposed to offer? Its number one killer app seems to be fitness. Which implies running. But I wouldnt want to be out running with a $350 frickin target on my wrist, especially when it directly implies that you are also carrying a $700 prize in your pocket. After all, you need an iphone to use the watch, no? I am NOT running around with $1000 on me. Especially in today's world where this grossly narcissistic iMentality is resulting in massive destruction of the middle class and mass destitution across large swaths of the country. I wouldnt want the rage of all that destruction focused on me and my shiny iStuff as I'm going out for a jog. But, hey, what do I know. Lots of people like to flaunt their faux iWealth. More power to em. Hope it ends well for em as we move towards an increasingly destitute country with tent cities and roving gangs like Chicago and LA.Gadgety - Thursday, September 11, 2014 - link
Good point. I bet most are running around inside a gym, though, for those very reasons.apertotes - Wednesday, September 10, 2014 - link
Wow! Even after this hideous thing Anandtech is unable to provide any meaningful esthetic criticism to Apple. I really had enough. This is not a site for users anymore. This is pure manufacturer's advertising.HisDivineOrder - Wednesday, September 10, 2014 - link
No comment on its MSRP?Seems like any discussion of its ultimate value should include its pricing.
savagemike - Wednesday, September 10, 2014 - link
Nobody really knows what it is. Starts at $350 but that is surely for the smallest, least optioned and most basic of the designs. I am purely guessing, of course. But I'm thinking the larger middle-of-the-road model is a $500 item.solipsism - Thursday, September 11, 2014 - link
I hadn't considered the 38mm version would be less expensive than the 42mm version. For some reason I am actually expecting them to be the same price for either size, but different prices for the three different styles, and perhaps some variance based on band style.Spunjji - Thursday, September 11, 2014 - link
I am genuinely surprised at how unattractive this device is. Roll on version 2?