Apple officially debuted its new smart watch set to start shipping in April, putting the company on the clock to see if time really will be on its side with wearable technology.
It's the company's first new product category since the iPad hit the scene in 2011, and is expected to be the priciest as well.
CEO Tim Cook ran down the options for the new device, which is available in two sizes, 38mm and 42mm, and three editions. The lowest tier with a stainless steel case and sapphire crystal, starts at $349. The Sport features an aluminum case with Ion-X glass and starts at $549. The most expensive, called the Edition line, features a case made of 18-karat gold and different designers straps. It's starting price, is a cool $10,000.
They will all be available for pre-order begininng April 10.
The Apple watch offers many of the same options found on an iPhone. It includes an iPod, fitness tracker, instant messenger, and will send and receive voice and text messages. It will also let users easlily connect with each other via their watches.
The watch is set up with the new Apple Pay application, letting users check out at stores with the pass of their wrist. It can be integrated with Apple TV and control other connected devices. And act as a digital key, conecting with your home to unlock and open doors, and monitor both the inside and out.
it also tells time, boasting an accuracy within 50 milliseconds and a fully customizable face letting the user decide how much or little info will be displayed.
Battery life for the new device is estimated at 18 hours with a magnetically attaching charger, that clicks into place.
Apple calls the new product revolutionary, and reportedly ordered 5 million of watches from suppliers, according to CNN Money.
Among the other announcements:
- In tandem with HBO's new standalone service, Apple will lower the price of its Apple TV from $99 to $69.
- Several new health apps are now available as part of Research Kit, including those dealing with breast cancer and Parkinson's disease.
- A new Mac Book, 24% thinner and weighing in at just two pounds with a 12" retina display screen is on the way.
- The iPhone has now sold more than 700 million units.
