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KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo issued a research note to investors today in which he predicts an all-new Apple Watch 2 will likely launch in the second half of 2016 with a faster TSMC-built under-16nm processor, GPS, barometer, and a higher capacity battery.

Kuo, well connected within the supply chain, believes the second-generation Apple Watch will retain the same screen sizes and thickness as existing models, with a similar form factor overall, despite adopting thinner display technology. While the Apple Watch 2 was once rumored to include cellular connectivity, however, Kuo does not expect LTE support until 2017.

The analyst also predicted that upgraded first-generation Apple Watch models will debut in the second half of 2016 with the same processor and waterproofing upgrades, but likely without the Apple Watch 2's most significant additions like a GPS and barometer. Kuo expects another Apple Watch price cut once the new models are launched, but remains conservative about prospective shipments in 2017.

Apple Watch shipments could rise further between 2018 and 2020, pending significant form factor changes, FDA approvals supporting more medical and health applications, and 5G network commercialization.

Article Link: Faster Apple Watch 2 With GPS, Barometer, Larger Battery, and Same Thickness to Launch in Late 2016
[doublepost=1470628040][/doublepost]I give up on my dream of a round Apple Watch not going to happen. Huawei and Moto 360 are going to get my business by default. I ordered the Apple Watch day 1 but still don't like the shape.
 
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GPS is critical. Makes it much more useful for fitness. Barometer too. Coupled with waterproofing, would make for a great diving watch.
^ This!! I've been waiting for GPS to be built in so when I run I can finally condense 4-5 devices (ipod nano, BT earbuds, nike+ sensor on shoe, Garmin GPS watch - for accuracy, and heart rate strap if I really want to). GPS is accurate when the Nike+ foot pod isn't, but I can calibrate after each run. And I have running data from Nike+ dating back to 2006...don't want to lose that. The Garmin site has great info, but what a pain w/ software updates/charging the watch...just a pain.

But now I could just grab my apple watch, BT earbuds and hit the trail or gym. Everything else is built into the watch...this I could buy. Garmin already wants $400-500 for their watches. Why not go the Apple route where everything works in the ecosystem and apps can be made. iPod, GPS, heart rate, running/workout apps all in one?! Sign me up!
 
So rather than an "upgraded first-generation Apple Watch", it sounds to me like that is just the base model of the Apple Watch 2, and then Apple is planning to offer a "fitness" version of the Apple Watch 2 enhanced with more sensors like GPS and a barometer, for those who want more sensors.
 
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I hope they have an upgrade program, though.

I feel it would help with their sales A LOT! And they would be getting much more valuable material back considering the watches are pretty thick aluminum steel or gold. I feel like there is much more material there than there is from an iPhone.
did iPods have an upgrade program? iPhones? iPads? MacBooks? no, no, no, no and no. so why on earth would the watch?
 
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I dont know why these people wanted LTE. Then they'll complain how high their bill is lmao.
A watch provides you with important things, in an a way that doesn't disrupt your life. Time, Steps, Calories burned, etc. Theres no reason to have it hooked up to a carrier, its a watch, not a phone. Silly people.
You assume most people care about fitness but I believe most people care about notifications. So if you leave your house without a phone you can still get notifications all day without the phone - not going to happen without LTE built into watch.
 
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I dont know why these people wanted LTE. Then they'll complain how high their bill is lmao.
A watch provides you with important things, in an a way that doesn't disrupt your life. Time, Steps, Calories burned, etc. Theres no reason to have it hooked up to a carrier, its a watch, not a phone. Silly people.
I would value LTE. It would mean I can leave my phone at home for a quick walk or trip to the shops without worrying about missing something important. It would be very convenient.
 
[doublepost=1470628040][/doublepost]I give up on my dream of a round Apple Watch not going to happen. Huawei and Moto 360 are going to get my business by default. I ordered the Apple Watch day 1 but still don't like the shape.


"Why do apple always put form over function??"

*square watch comes out*

"I wish apple would put form over function!"
 
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did iPods have an upgrade program? iPhones? iPads? MacBooks? no, no, no, no and no. so why on earth would the watch?
Most people aren't going to want to buy a new watch every year / 2 years. Many people are hoping for an upgrade program. Its not probable, but its not an insane idea either...
[doublepost=1470629430][/doublepost]
So rather than an "upgraded first-generation Apple Watch", it sounds to me like that is just the base model of the Apple Watch 2, and then Apple is planning to offer a "fitness" version of the Apple Watch 2 enhanced with more sensors like GPS and a barometer, for those who want more sensors.
But then again, they want to push as much into the watch as possible, that was always the idea, right? So why would they create two different versions, one with fitness stuff and one without? Wouldnt really make sense..
 
Basically all we need. Faster processor, GPS (not exactly necessary but definitely welcomed!!) and larger battery, as well as maintaining the same form factor! Sounds perfect to me.
I couldn't justify a sport watch (main reason for wanting one) without GPS, personally. I'm beyond thrilled to hear this and am really hoping the rumor is true.
 
You assume most people care about fitness but I believe most people care about notifications. So if you leave your house without a phone you can still get notifications all day without the phone - not going to happen without LTE built into watch.
But youre not going to have full conversations through a watch.. its awkward and clunky to take all your phone calls on a watch, all your texts, skype, telegram, Instagram, snapchat... the watch isn't suppose to replace a phone, or really do what a phone does at all, its a watch / fitness band. Time and calories is what counts.
[doublepost=1470629580][/doublepost]
I would value LTE. It would mean I can leave my phone at home for a quick walk or trip to the shops without worrying about missing something important. It would be very convenient.
It would be convenient but take up more room, cost more for the watch, and you'd have to pay every month, not sure if the trade off is truly worth it.. you know what I mean :(
 
Who is this guy "KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo"? I feel like all he does is scratch his ass and then write a "research note" to the public.
He's tim cook......






...seriously..he's some rumor guy...and pretty accurate for lot of times..if not perfect.
 
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sounds lame. no more health sensors?

Maybe the jump to android will be easier for people after a lame iphone 7 and a lame Apple watch!

Tim is on a roll!
 
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"Why do apple always put form over function??"

*square watch comes out*

"I wish apple would be form over function!"
I wanted a round Apple Watch as well, although screen real-estate is better with a square screen, and also gives more room internally. Cant really win either way I guess :(
 
Most people aren't going to want to buy a new watch every year / 2 years. Many people are hoping for an upgrade program. Its not probable, but its not an insane idea either...
[doublepost=1470629430][/doublepost]
But then again, they want to push as much into the watch as possible, that was always the idea, right? So why would they create two different versions, one with fitness stuff and one without? Wouldnt really make sense..
I could see an upgrade program. They'd force apple care as they do currently, making an easy added $50 for the year. Perhaps even increase the monthly rate so that you're laying off more than half the initial msrp.

The feature list has me bouncing off the walls. This is exactly what I've been waiting for. I almost decided to buy a used watch having seen the new OS (wife has one) and even considered a Moto sport (would have had to stnc to my work phone) but am glad I waited.
 
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