Following Drexel Hamilton analyst Brian White’s prediction that Apple would unveil a thinner Apple Watch as early as WWDC 2016, KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has weighed in with his own predictions. In his latest note, Kuo predicts that physical changes will be slight with the focus instead being on upgraded internal components.
Kuo’s prediction of “spec improvements with limited changes to form factor design” suggests that Apple may take the same approach with its smartwatch as it has with its smartphones. It regularly releases “S” models that feature upgraded specifications without making any significant changes to the overall design. Improved components on the next Apple Watch could include a larger battery and a display with better outdoor visibility rather than the addition of a new Facetime camera as earlier rumours suggested.
Kuo sheds no light on when he expects Apple to announce the updated Apple Watch. An announcement at WWDC 2016 is certainly a possibility as is a later launch alongside the iPhone 7. While the specific time frame may not be clear, expect the new Apple Watch to be available in time for the holiday season.
Kuo also predicts that Apple Watch sales will slow in 2016. While Apple has yet to reveal how well the Apple Watch has sold since its debut, Kuo believes that it sold about 10.6 million units last year. But he expects that the company may “only” sell about 7.5 million Apple Watches in 2016 due to an “immature” market for wearable devices.
Source : AppleInsider