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Swatch CEO Says iWatch Isn't the Next Revolution

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Apr 12, 2001
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Swatch CEO Nick Hayek does not believe that the a potential iWatch could replace the iPhone, reports Bloomberg. At a press conference in Grenchen, Switzerland, Hayek implied that an Apple smart watch would be a flop because of its small display size.
"Personally, I don't believe it's the next revolution," the chief of the largest Swiss watchmaker said at a press conference on annual results in Grenchen, Switzerland. "Replacing an iPhone with an interactive terminal on your wrist is difficult. You can't have an immense display."
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Hayek also mentioned that consumers buy watches as a fashion item and prefer versatility, a statement that may be off base considering the current popularity of smart watches like the Pebble.

Swatch used to sell its own version of a smart watch through a partnership with Microsoft. The Swatch Paparazzi offered users news headlines, sports, weather, horoscopes, and stock quotes.

paparazzi.jpg

The company has been in contact with Apple for several years, said Hayek, speaking about "materials for products and so-called energy harvesting technology that would generate energy from physical movement."

There are no concrete hints on what Apple's iWatch might look like, but a patent application suggests that Apple might be considering a wraparound design with a touchscreen and a flexible glass display. The watch is rumored to run the full version of iOS, but a release date remains unclear.

Article Link: Swatch CEO Says iWatch Isn't the Next Revolution
 
Article Link
https://www.macrumors.com/2013/03/06/swatch-ceo-says-iwatch-isnt-the-next-revolution/
Just like in 2006 when palm said apple had no chance to be successful with a phone.
 
I think the CEO is missing the point. I don't believe the iWatch is supposed to replace the iPhone, but instead complement the iPhone.
 
Of course it can't replace a phone. Its a watch. Will never be able to do what a smartphone can.

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chukronos said:
Famous last words?
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You think Swatch is going anywhere? They're the largest watch company in the world, and they make some of the best watchs in the world. I highly doubt they'll go anywhere.
 
MacRumors said:
Swatch used to sell its own version of a smart watch through a partnership with Microsoft. The Swatch Paparazzi offered users news headlines, sports, weather, horoscopes, and stock quotes.
Click to expand...

Here's the problem with this guy's analysis. They tried it, probably with poor implementation and lack of the killer app (where's email?), cluttered with bs (horoscopes?!), and it didn't pan out. So therefore, Apple couldn't do any better.
 
This bodes well for Apple stock, if its competitors are underestimating them again!

Of course it wouldn't 1 for 1 replace the phone, dummy. But I'd rather have a watch (for simple interactions, and the communications) and a tablet (for more detailed content) that work well together, than a phone.

Really, smart phones are kind of occupying that "netbook" place right now. We want to be continually connected, but the phone screens are awkward. Watch and tablet is a good model, IMO.
 
G51989 said:
Yes...I'm sure Apple will kill off the worlds largest watch company that makes some of the best watches in the world...I'm sure people will trade in a swatch for an iWatch :rolleyes:
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Not sure if there was sarcasm or not but one word... "Nokia"
 
I don't recall anyone ever saying an iWatch would replace iPhones. As an accessory, I would definitely be open to seeing what the watch is capable of, however.

To assume it will flop without even knowing what it will look like and what it will do is incredibly asinine. It only opens him up to humility in the long run.
 
its going to be a small revolution, but more like "geeky revolution" for geeks. Normal everyday people use watch as a fashion extra/addon, and not usefulness.
 
I agree with Swatch, and I would also add that the iWatch would not be able to replace hybrid cars, either, so it's definitely not going to be a revolution. It also won't replace toasters, which is a shame. Come on Apple, it's time to innovate!
 
iWatch = iAmOutOfIdeas :rolleyes:

What's the next big thing Apple? A watch and a TV aren't it.
 
Smartass said:
its going to be a small revolution, but more like "geeky revolution" for geeks. Normal everyday people use watch as a fashion extra/addon, and not usefulness.
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What did normal everyday people use their phones for prior to the smartphone?
 
G51989 said:
Yes...I'm sure Apple will kill off the worlds largest watch company that makes some of the best watches in the world...I'm sure people will trade in a swatch for an iWatch :rolleyes:
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Oh yeah, just like 5 years ago with phones. I'm not saying this will be the case, but if history taught you anything ...
 
Mr Fusion said:
iWatch = iAmOutOfIdeas :rolleyes:

What's the next big thing Apple? A watch and a TV aren't it.
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Please enlighten us as to what this watch and TV do. Since you seem to know that Apple cannot possibly improve on the current offerings. :rolleyes:
 
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