As widely expected, Apple unveiled some new wearables alongside the new iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus smartphones. The Apple Watch Series 2 retains the overall design of the original model while adding a number of new features including GPS and a new water-resistant shell.
Apple has also updated key components, giving the Series 2 a brighter display and a new dual-core processor called the S2. A new GPU also promises to make graphics performance up to twice as fast as on the original Apple Watch.
“We’re thrilled with the response to Apple Watch and how it’s changed people’s lives. We are committed to fitness and health and think our customers will love the new capabilities of Apple Watch Series 2,” said Jeff Williams, Apple’s chief operating officer. “With a powerful new dual-core processor, water resistance 50 meters and built-in GPS, Apple Watch Series 2 is packed with features to help our customers live a healthy life.”
The Apple Watch Series 2 will be powered by watchOS 3. The new mobile operating system will also be available as an upgrade to existing Apple Watch models.
Apple also partnered once more with Nike to introduce the Apple Watch Nike+. Based on the Apple Watch 2, it comes with exclusive Nike Sport bands, exclusive Siri commands and two exclusive Nike watch faces. It also offers “deep integration” with the new Nike+ Run Club app.
Apple will continue to sell the first generation Apple Watch, now called the Apple Watch Series 1, as well. It has been upgraded to the dual-core processor and GPU as well and will come in lightweight aluminum. The high-end Apple Watch Edition lives on as well with a new white-colored ceramic model.
The Apple Watch Series 2 will go on sale in more than 25 countries, including both Canada and the U.S., starting on Friday, September 16. It will be available with a choice of lightweight aluminum or stainless steel cases along with a number of new band colors. Pricing will start at US$369 (CA$489).
The new ceramic Apple Watch Edition starts at US$1249 (CA$1649) while the Apple Watch Series 1 will start at US$269 (CA$359).
Source : Apple