New reports have indicated that Apple has reportedly tried and failed to integrate standalone cellular connectivity to the next Apple Watch.
It’s long been anticipated that the follow-up to the original Apple Watch would include a notable feature the first device in the series didn’t possess; cellular conectivity. Now, it appears that after trying and failing to integrate the feature Apple will be forced to let down its faithful when it debuts its next wearable device.
Macworld reports that while the Wall Street Journal cited that the Apple Watch 2 would come equipped with cellular connectivity, Apple have run into problems while integrating the feature and have made the decision to scrap it altogether.
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Allegedly, Apple found that integrating cellular connectivity into its redesigned wearable affected battery life to greatly to produce the device as a final product. When justifying its decision, Apple apparently cited the diminished battery life would ‘limit (sic) user appeal’.
This likely means that only the Apple Watch 3 – whenever it eventually debuts in the future – will be the first in the series to be able to function without an iPhone companion device in its near vicinity.
The Apple Watch 2, however, is still expected to integrate GPS, improved water resistance, a faster processor, and a barometer to boot. Whether this will be able to entice iOS devotees who haven’t yet purchased Apple’s wearable is another matter entirely.
Speculation is rife that Apple is actively preparing a second wearable. Reportedly, this could take the form of an upgraded ‘Apple Watch 1s‘ or even another form of device – such as a fitness tracker.
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What are your thoughts? Would you buy an Apple-made wearable without cellular connectivity? Be sure to let us know your opinion in the comments below!
Follow Bryan Smith on Twitter: @bryansmithSA
