The Apple Watch

Laurel Kraus, Co-Editor

apple watch 2
Photo Credit: Apple Inc.

In recent weeks, somewhere across the world an unknowing costumer purchased the 500 millionth iPhone to be sold by the technology giant, Apple. The iPhone, first released in 2007, is arguably Apple’s greatest success thus far and gives testament to the fact that the company seems to be leading the way to our future. Their newest product, in fact, may just turn out to be the gateway onto that bridge.

On April 24th, Apple is planning to release The Apple Watch, an item that takes electronic watches above and beyond a whole new level. Apple representatives have stated that this is their most personal product yet due to the fact that it will be worn, rather than slid into a pocket or sat on a desk.

Surprisingly, there have already been a significant number of negative responses toward the idea; however, they are largely connected to its price. Each Apple Watch is set to be sold anywhere from 549 to 1099.99 dollars.

Nevertheless, many are still greatly intrigued by this product. It has all the functions of a normal watch (including automatically switching to the local time when one travels), but Apple insured there is much much more.

One of the most interesting features, which some may feel is a downside, is that although The Apple Watch has the ability of messaging, it has no keyboard. This means that the user must either access the microphone or choose from preset responses. There are however, other fun and unique ways to communicate with family and friends such as sending a sketch or even an animated version of ones heartbeat.

The Apple Watch was also built for fitness tracking. Much like a Fitbit, it learns a persons activity and fitness levels in order to help one achieve his or her goals. It has also been stated that it can provide custom reminders to encourage the wearer, although it is not yet clear what exactly that entails.

Many costumers may be excited to learn that they may not have to carry around loads of cash and credit cards for much longer. The Apple Watch supports Apple Pay, which is essentially a system where Visa, Master Card, and Amex Card holders will have the option to keep their card information on file with Apple and in turn have the ability to wave their wrist in front of special in-store readers as a way of payment. Apple representatives have remarked that is it working with Macy’s, McDonald’s, and many other stores to have the readers installed.

Overall, there are three main types of Apple Watch. The first, made of stainless steel, is not so ironically simply called The Apple Watch. The next is The Apple Watch Sport, and with strengthened glass and durable bands, it is based toward an athletic lifestyle. The last, and most expensive, is The Apple Watch Edition, which has a gold case.

In addition, Apple realizes that people will be wearing The Apple Watch as an accessory so they have designed multiple styles and colors in order to allow users the ability to express themselves.

The Apple Watch is compatible with the iPhone 5 and up, and potential users may be happy to know that Apple’s beloved Siri is of course included. With this Apple Watch right around the corner, no doubt many are on the edge of their seats to find out what Apple will create next.