"Hey Siri" support and possibly wireless charging case alongside AirPower charging mat.
AirPods and AirPower: Everything We Know
Hands-On First Impressions of the New Apple Watch
Following today's media event that saw the introduction of two new iPhones and Apple's long-rumored wearable device, members of the press were invited to go hands-on with all of Apple's new products. Several sites have posted hands-on first impressions of the Apple Watch, which we've gathered up below to give an overall picture of the look, feel, and function of the device.
First of all, Jared Nelson from our sister site TouchArcade was able to get a hands-on glimpse at the Watch, and an overview from an Apple employee who walked him through several different features on the device. "We are truly living in the future," said Nelson after trying out both the Watch and the iPhone 6.
According to The Verge, the smaller Watch model felt "very solid and surprisingly light," and the wrist strap was "supple" and comfortable to wear. The site also thinks the device looks "better than most of the smartwatch competition out there," and got a look at the "Digital Crown" control.
First of all, Jared Nelson from our sister site TouchArcade was able to get a hands-on glimpse at the Watch, and an overview from an Apple employee who walked him through several different features on the device. "We are truly living in the future," said Nelson after trying out both the Watch and the iPhone 6.
According to The Verge, the smaller Watch model felt "very solid and surprisingly light," and the wrist strap was "supple" and comfortable to wear. The site also thinks the device looks "better than most of the smartwatch competition out there," and got a look at the "Digital Crown" control.
The "digital crown" that Tim Cook spent so much time enthusing about on stage did its job when an Apple representative showed it to us, but unfortunately I wasn't able to try it for myself. That said, if the model running the demo loop is any indication, the dial offers very little resistance. It didn't exactly spin around freely, but neither did I feel any clicking or other forceful feedback as I twisted it. Presumably the feeling that I wasn't getting much feedback from the dial itself is mostly a function of the fact that it wasn't doing anything on the demo unit -- and so spinning it will feel quite different when it's moving software around.Engadget also got a chance to try out the watch, but wasn't able to test specific features as the demo units were only displaying screenshots. The site tried both the polished steel version with a leather loop strap and the aluminum Sport version, saying that both had an "impeccable" build quality.
The bands were both comfy, though I preferred the look and feel of the leather loop. The magnets inside the leather seem to do the job of clasping well, though without the same magnetic force as those accustomed to the MagSafe connectors found on Apple laptops. As for the rubber sport band, I had some trouble fitting the metal nubbin into its appropriate hole, and I got a little pinch on the underside of my wrist when tucking it into the band. We imagine we'd get the hang of fitting it quickly and painlessly eventually, but our first time strapping it on was not all pleasant.Gizmodo's first impression of the Apple Watch is that it "could live up to its promises" and that it feels "significantly more premium" than the LG G Watch and the Samsung Gear Live. The site also praised the "digital crown," saying that "it feels like you're wearing a watch that just happens to be digital."
As for the software, I wish I could tell you more. I watched my new Apple friend demonstrate Glances, which brings up Google Now-like info cards with an upward swipe, that can be rotated through with subsequent right and left swipage. I can confirm that it works, and that it was zippy, at least on this pre-release model.SlashGear says that the Watch's display is "bright and vivid," and that Apple's choice of materials makes the device feel "premium and solid."
What helps differentiate the Apple Watch from other smartwatch attempts is the sheer range of options and customizations possible. Other platforms perhaps allow for a couple of strap changes, and maybe two or three case colors; Apple, on the other hand, has put out a full three ranges of different options.Based on the several first impressions of the device, it appears that Apple has quite a bit of work to do to perfect the software and the interface, even if the device itself appears complete hardware-wise. Apple is planning to wait until early 2015 to debut the device, which gives it plenty of time to iron out the kinks. Check out our full Apple Watch post for more details on the device.
Different straps, different clasps, different colors of straps and clasps; metal, leather, rubber, and all in different colors and finishes. That's before you get to the variations in casing color and even material, ranging to premium 18 karat gold.
Related Roundups: Apple Watch, watchOS 5
Buyer's Guide: Apple Watch (Neutral)
[ 464 comments ]
Top Rated Comments
(View all)
58 months ago
Hey guys, Google here. Today we are pleased to announce a revolutionary new product category. This amazing device was designed from the ground up be worn on your wrist. It has a magnificent circular touchscreen, the first of its kind. Truly magical. In terms of design, our goal was to create an elegant fashion accessory that wouldn't look out of place alongside premium Swiss timepieces. We're extremely proud of what we came up with, and we think that our customers are absolutely going to love it.
Introducing the Moto 360:
MEANWHILE AT APPLE
Introducing the Moto 360:
MEANWHILE AT APPLE
58 months ago
.
I can NOT believe how cheap that thing looks.
Especially after:
1. Jony I've says: watch out Switzerland (hahaha)
2. They hire the Burberry lady
I was actually expecting a beautifully designed, iconic watch... not even close.
:rolleyes:
I can NOT believe how cheap that thing looks.
Especially after:
1. Jony I've says: watch out Switzerland (hahaha)
2. They hire the Burberry lady
I was actually expecting a beautifully designed, iconic watch... not even close.
:rolleyes:
58 months ago
steve jobs died again today
I hate it when people say this type of stuff. It's sensationalist, ridiculous, and insulting to his memory.
However on this occasion, I completely agree.
58 months ago
From someone who has actually seen one:
...and from someone who has not.
Who to believe? Tough call.
The site tried both the polished steel version with a leather loop strap and the aluminum Sport version, saying that both had an "impeccable" build quality.
...and from someone who has not.
I can NOT believe how cheap that thing looks.
Who to believe? Tough call.
58 months ago
This watch is so innovative that under direct sun and wearing sunglasses you probably can't see what time is it.
58 months ago
This thing is gimmicky.
Who the hell is gonna draw on that tiny screen?
Who's gonna send 3 taps to message to someone else that they are out?
Why not just use a phone and call or text someone?
Who the hell is gonna draw on that tiny screen?
Who's gonna send 3 taps to message to someone else that they are out?
Why not just use a phone and call or text someone?
58 months ago
some questions I have
1. Why look/show your pictures in that tiny screen when you have your iPhone in your pocket
2. Why speak close to your hand like a moron to siri when your can use hands free equipment with your phone
3. How cool is not seeing what time is it when being under the sun?
4. Are you sure this looks better than moto 360?
1. Why look/show your pictures in that tiny screen when you have your iPhone in your pocket
2. Why speak close to your hand like a moron to siri when your can use hands free equipment with your phone
3. How cool is not seeing what time is it when being under the sun?
4. Are you sure this looks better than moto 360?
[ Read All Comments ]
In his wide-ranging research note today touching on Apple's product releases for 2019, Ming-Kuo provided a glimpse at upcoming AirPods, iPads, iPhones, displays and MacBook Pros. Regarding the...
For this week's giveaway, we've teamed up with Astropad to offer MacRumors readers a chance to win a Luna Display adapter. The Luna Display is a handy little dongle that's designed to...
In late November, Apple launched a limited time promotion that offers up to $100 in additional credit when trading in an iPhone 6 through iPhone 8 towards the purchase of a new iPhone XS or...
Apple today filed its 2018 Conflict Minerals Report with the SEC as part of its commitment to supplier responsibility.
Apple said it remains "deeply committed" to upholding human...
Apple's Beats by Dre brand today unveiled a new NBA collection, with Beats Studio 3 Wireless Headphones available in six colorways representing the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers,...
Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey today commented on the possibility of an edit button for tweets, suggesting Twitter is considering a feature that might let people go back and add clarifications or...
In the wake of Apple's decision to end its AirPort line of routers, many users continue to hunt for the best possible Wi-Fi networking solution. Ubiquiti Networks' AmpliFi routers have been...
Today is Valentine's Day, and as it happens on holidays, many online retailers are using the event to share Valentine-themed discounts and offers to their customers. In this post we've...
