Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook took the stage earlier today to unveil a series of new products launching soon one of which is the acclaimed Apple Watch. In addition, to unveiling the Apple Watch Sport edition starting at $349 he excitedly talked about a more… luxurious model, the Apple Watch Edition. It is the most expensive of three separate Apple Watch models.
Of course, this comes at a time when Apple has officially rebranded itself as a luxury company. They are no longer focused solely on the introduction of innovative products, but more so about the style and composition of them. In the case of their ritzy, Apple Watch “Edition” model it will cost in excess of $10,000. Not to worry though, that price is only for their highest paying customers as the standard version will set you back a mere $549. While we’d argue the high-end prices are a bit exaggerated, it’s clear they’ve been reported as such for some time.
As Cook erratically claimed on stage, ““The Apple Watch is the most personal device we have ever created. It’s not just with you, it’s on you.”
Apple Watch Models and Prices
Luckily, there are three different Apple Watch models; each one of them targeted towards different segments of the consumer market.
The entry-level Apple Watch Sport edition is made with not-so-premium materials and will cost $349. The Apple Watch is a mid-tier model that is slightly better in composition for $549. Then, there’s the Apple Watch Edition, a high-end model the shell of which is comprised of 18 karat rose or yellow gold. All of these Apple Watch models are offered in two separate sizes — 38 mm and 42 mm. In addition, they will include 11 different watchfaces at launch and each will be compatible with Apple Watch developed apps.
Respectively, the prices of those Apple Watch models differ depending on the size you choose and the included wristband.
The Apple Watch Sport is $349 for the 38mm size and $399 for the 42mm size. The Apple Watch is $549 to $1,049 for the 38mm size — depending on the wristband you choose — while it’s $599 to $1,099 for the 42mm size.
As for the Apple Watch Edition, prices start at $10,00 and there will only be “limited quantities” available, according to Cook. The company is surely betting that claim will push them to sell like hot-cakes. Naturally, Cook also said “the Apple Watch Edition is the most beautiful expression of the Apple Watch.”
All Apple Watch models will launch on April 24, with pre-orders available as early as April 10. If you’re keen on trying out the device(s) early, you can head to the Galeries Lafayette in Paris, Selfridges in London, and Isetan in Tokyo on April 10 for a small taste.
Apple Watch Features
If you’ve been paying attention to our previous coverage of the Apple Watch — or anyone else’s — then you already know what the device can do for the most part. All Apple Watch models tether directly with an iPhone (5 and up — though Apple would prefer if you upgraded to gen 6), to deliver notifications, alerts and messages on your wrist. You can also track exercise data and related health info, and even show or share your heart beat with a friend. Full Siri voice integration is on the table, as well.
Of particular note, is the digital crown on the side which wearers will use to navigate the UI and interact with the device. This is complimentary to the touchscreen display, and instead offers gesture and finger-based support similar to a small joystick, or mouse-nub.
The main watchfaces are designed to mimic the function and style of traditional wristwatches and out-of-the-box the Watch will include eleven different variants. Of course, you’ll be able to download and install plenty more watchfaces from the App Store if you desire more.
“You can interface Apple Watch with Siri, just using your voice. You can [also] connect to social media, you can keep track of the daily news as it happens,” says Cook. In other words, it has access to the internet thanks to Wi-Fi and an active Bluetooth connection with iPhones.
As for the Apple Watch battery, it should last under “typical use” scenarios for about 18 hours. As predicted, just under a full day’s use for a single charge.
For more information about each of the Apple Watch models, head on over to Apple’s official site. We’ll have more details for you, as well, so stay tuned!