In his recently released Apple Roadmap, KGI Securities analyst Ming Chi Kuo reveals his predicted specifications for iWatch, which will reportedly ship in Q3 2014.
The iWatch is said to come in 1.3-inch and 1.5-inch sizes to accommodate different sized wrists. Both will utilize flexible AMOLED displays with sapphire glass covers for scratch protection. The device will integrate numerous biometric sensors, a NFC chip, and have a slim, light, ‘fashionable appearance’.
Kuo thinks that the watch’s mechanical parts could be made with liquidmetal and it may have an ‘innovative’ antenna design that would allow for wireless charging. The battery is estimated at 200 to 250mAh in size and will last for at least a day of operation. Apple is expected to beat rival devices in this area due to its “vertically integrated operating system and key components.”
According to Kuo, Apple will release the iWatch at multiple price points and in a variety of materials. At the high end, he says the device could cost thousands of dollars.
“Fashion is the name of the game; most expensive model likely priced at several thousand US dollars. Referring to the rules of the fashion market, we predict the iWatch casing and band will come in various materials. The most expensive model of the iWatch line will carry a price tag of several thousand US dollars.”
Kuo says the iWatch will be Apple’s most important product of 2014. Shipments of 5.5 million units are expected this year and next year could see 30 to 50 million units shipped.
Via MacRumors
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