It’s been a long-time coming, but it looks as though Apple could be planning on introducing an updated version of Apple Watch 1 later this year, alongside brand new Apple Watch 2 model.
This is according to the extremely accurate KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo’s latest research note to investors.
The most exciting part of this prediction is the possibility of Apple Watch 2 making its way onto physical and digital shelves later in the year. Ming-Chi Kuo has presumably used his contacts and influence within Apple’s supply chain to garner this information, suggesting that Apple Watch 2 will retain its existing form factor and dimensions, but that it will come with a range of internal hardware improvements that allow it to far transcend the performance of the original Apple Watch.
Apple Watch 2 is predicted to ship with a brand new, faster and more efficient processor supplied by the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), as well as a built-in GPS unit to allow it to track location independent of a connected iPhone. Kuo also notes that the new model will feature a barometer, a higher capacity battery for a prolonged uptime, as well as superior waterproofing to give owners more peace of mind when wearing the Apple Watch in moist environments and conditions.
Those who aren’t ready to try out Apple Watch 2, but want a more performant version of Apple Watch 1, the KGI Securities analyst has also noted that an upgraded version of the existing Apple Watch will arrive this year. In order to offer notable differentiating features, the improved Apple Watch 1 model won’t come with GPS or barometer capabilities, but is said to contain an upgraded processor, once again provided by TSMC, as well as a waterproofing enhancement. The form factor and overall dimensions of the Watch will remain the same, and should be ready to ship before the year’s out.
Apple has already shown willing to progress the Apple Watch platform with connoted updates to watchOS. The third major iteration of watchOS, that is watchOS 3, is currently in beta right now, so it will be extremely interesting to see if we will have a hardware refresh to coincide with the public availability of that platform.
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