New in OS X: Get MacRumors Push Notifications on your Mac

Resubscribe Now Close

Apple's 'iWatch' Said to Run Full iOS, but Battery Life an Issue in Prototypes

Monday March 4, 2013 5:54 am PST by Eric Slivka
hex_vision_ipod_nano_watchPiggybacking on Bloomberg's latest report about Apple's "iWatch" plans, The Verge has weighed in with its own claims about the project. Most notably, the report's sources claim that Apple is planning for the watch to run a "full" version of iOS rather a simpler operating system such as that seen on the iPod nano.
Interestingly, we're also told that Apple's chosen to rework the full iOS to run on the watch instead of building up the iPod nano's proprietary touch operating system — although the previous nano was already watch-sized and seemed like a great starting point for a watch, Apple's betting on iOS across product lines.
Given the constraints of a watch-sized display, it seems clear that this full version of iOS would still have some limitations in terms of feature support. But a watch-specific version of iOS could make app support more straightforward for both Apple and third-party app developers.

Apple's desire for the watch to run iOS is causing the company some difficulties, however, as The Verge reports that prototypes are currently seeing subpar battery life.
[T]he goal is to last at least 4-5 days between charges, but the current watch prototypes are apparently only going for a couple days max. We're also told Apple has some work to do with iOS on the iPhone, which currently has several hooks for supporting a watch-like device but lacks the appropriate interface or settings to make it work properly.
Rumors of an Apple smart watch have been rapidly gaining steam in recent weeks, suggesting that the company may indeed be moving the project to near the top of its priority list. An Apple television set had been the front-running rumor for Apple's next major product, but its development has reportedly been slowed by content negotiations.

(Photo: HEX Vision Metal Watchband for iPod nano)

Tag: theverge.com
[ 299 comments ]


Top Rated Comments

(View all)

Avatar
JesterJJZ
83 months ago

I remember when this site was about iPhones and iPads, not these kiddy iWatch toys. What has happened to Apple?


I remember when this site was about Apple computers...:(
Rating: 50 Votes
Avatar
levitynyc
83 months ago
can't wait to have to charge my watch every day.
Rating: 39 Votes
Avatar
Sky Blue
83 months ago
I remember when this site was about iPhones and iPads, not these kiddy iWatch toys. What has happened to Apple?
Rating: 26 Votes
Avatar
eawmp1
83 months ago

I remember when this site was about iPhones and iPads, not these kiddy iWatch toys. What has happened to Apple?


I remember when this site was about desktops and laptops. Times change. Roll with it.
Rating: 19 Votes
Avatar
Roessnakhan
83 months ago

Why would you want to buy this ugly piece of ******?....:(


You don't even know what it'll look like.
Rating: 18 Votes
Avatar
kas23
83 months ago
"Hey dude, you got the time?"

"Sorry, my watch is dead right now. Ask me this time tomorrow. "
Rating: 14 Votes
Avatar
CausticPuppy
83 months ago

can't wait to have to charge my watch every day.


Back in the old days, you'd have to wind it up every day.
Rating: 11 Votes
Avatar
Thunderhawks
83 months ago

I wish Apple would move the MacPro to the top of their list...:mad:


Don't you think that's a little heavy to put on a wristband?
Rating: 9 Votes
Avatar
JDB1983
83 months ago

I remember when this site was about iPhones and iPads, not these kiddy iWatch toys. What has happened to Apple?


Hahaha, the number of people whos' head this joke has flown over makes me laugh
Rating: 9 Votes
Avatar
jabingla2810
83 months ago
Like it or loath it, wearable tech IS coming.

Apple will be in the market, so will Google, Samsung, LG, HTC, everybody.

Watches, glasses, shoes etc You name it.

Sure, it would be great to sit here and talk about Desktops and Laptops all day, but they aren't the future.

"Skate to where the puck is going, not where it has been." - Wayne Gretzky
Rating: 8 Votes

[ Read All Comments ]