Apple's new cellular Watch that doesn't need iPhone pairing!
What's the story
Apple Watch is a health and fitness tracker, a remote control, a music player, a notification system, a communicator- basically an all-in-one wrist computer!
However, it is smart only when an iPhone is nearby; otherwise, it can't use data.
That's why, Apple is planning to launch a new Watch this year that can directly connect to mobile networks without depending on iPhone.
Know more!
Information
About the Apple Watch
Apple had launched the Watch in 2015. Apple CEO Tim Cook recently claimed that it was the world's best-selling smart watch. However, research and analysis firm Strategic Analysis says Cupertino-based tech giant lags behind Xiaomi and Fitbit in the wearables space.
Launch
May debut alongside three new iPhones
Sources say Apple may release the new Watch along with three new iPhone models scheduled for release later this year.
The built-in LTE Watch would allow users to get the most out of the watch even if they leave their iPhones behind.
Currently, most tasks (making calls, receiving notifications) on Watch can be done when it is within an iPhone's range.
Information
Carriers supporting the Watch
Apple is in talks with American and European network providers regarding the Watch. Sources say the LTE Watch would be initially supported by a limited set of carriers. However, in the US, AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, and T-Mobile US may sell the device.
The Next Watch
Untethering the Watch from the iPhone
Breaking the Watch's ties with iPhone would offer users a range of new functions on-the-go.
Apple is launching LTE Watch years after Samsung and LG released their cellular watches.
Experts say, unlike its rivals' cellular watches, the new Watch can garner mainstream popularity.
However, some are concerned about its battery life as most draining tasks on it are currently done via the paired iPhone.
Quote
Cellular connectivity can boost fitness credentials of Watch
Creative Strategies' Consumer Tech Analyst, Carolina Milanesi, stated: "Apple clearly has big plans for Watch both in the health segment and as a gateway to the connected home. Direct network connection helps in both making sharing data more reliable and faster."
Intel Modem
Intel to manufacture the LTE modem
Intel would reportedly manufacture the Apple Watch's LTE modem.
The chipmaker has been keen to supply components for Apple's devices; it was added to Apple's modem supplier list for some iPhones in 2016.
Qualcomm used to be the primary chip supplier for Apple's iPhones and other gadgets, but both the companies are currently embroiled in a legal dispute over a patent infringement.