Apple Watch 2: Release date, price, specs and all the latest rumours about Apple’s next smartwatch

ReutersApple iPhone 6S and Apple WatchA leaked note has outlined what features and specs the new Apple Watch will have

When the Apple Watch launched two years ago, it quickly became the best selling wearable ever to be released.

However, unlike most of Apple’s other products, the Watch divided opinion, with many claiming they just didn’t need another “smart” device on their wrist.

Fast forward two years, and an updated version of Apple’s wearable is no doubt in the pipeline. But how will the new model win over its critics?

While there has been a never-ending conveyor belt of iPhone 7 rumours , things have remained relatively quiet on the Apple Watch 2 rumour front.

However an investor note has now been leaked from KGI Securities analyst, Ming-chi Kuo , giving us an indication of what Apple’s plans might be for the smartwatch.

We’ll keep this article updated, so remember to check back for the latest news on the supposed Apple Watch 2.

Release Date
Justin Sullivan/Getty ImagesApple CEO Tim Cook shows off the new iPhone 6 and the Apple Watch during an Apple special eventApple CEO Tim Cook shows off the new iPhone 6 and the Apple Watch during an Apple special event
In his investor note Ming-Chi Kuo predicted that the Apple Watch 2 would most likely be launched in the second half of 2016.

It’s logical to conclude then that the next-generation smartwatch will be released alongside the hotly-anticipated iPhone 7, especially as Apple likes to push sales of the iPhone and Apple Watch together.

If this is the case, then get ready to see the updated Watch launch at the beginning of September. If you want to get really specific, the rumours are pointing towards September 16 as the date to have circled in your diary.

Specs
REUTERSAn Apple Watch is shown making a tap transaction during an Apple event
The main feature upgrades you can expect to see in the Apple Watch 2 are a faster 16nm processor from TSMC, a barometer that will measure atmospheric pressure, a GPS radio, superior waterproofing, and a higher capacity battery.

These features suggest that the Apple Watch 2 could be trying to market itself more as a sporting wearable – the functionalities certainly cater to those who would want to use it whilst swimming, climbing and exploring.

While the Apple Watch 2 was once rumoured to include 4G connectivity, Kuo noted that he does not expect to see this until 2017. This means the Apple Watch will still very much be dependent your iPhone.

Other online rumours have suggested that the new watch will also come with a FaceTime camera and expanded Wi-Fi capabilities.

New screen technology will reportedly help prolong the Apple Watch 2’s battery life.

A report from tech site DigiTimes states that Apple is switching out an OLED screen for a Micro-LED one on the next version of its wearable.

While OLED screens are generally agreed to produce a better picture, LED is crucial for saving the battery. Sony pursued a similar switch on its PS Vita handheld game console.

LCD screens are also thinner than OLED displays, meaning the next version of the Apple Watch could be slimmer.

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Design
AppleApple Watch 2The Apple Watch 2 is going to look very similar to it predecessor
It sounds as though the Apple Watch 2 won’t be getting a design overhaul.

Kuo notes that it will have “the same general design” as the original Apple Watch, including screen size, thickness and a similar form overall.

Partly the reason why it can’t get smaller, is that the new functionalities and improved processor require more battery power.

Price
In keeping with Apple’s previous pricing strategy, Kuo expects an Apple Watch price cut once the new models are launched.

This means the Apple Watch 2 models will come in at the same price point the watches are currently being sold at – £299 for the 38mm sport model, and £339 for the larger 42mm one.

That goes up to £479 for the 38mm for the standard model and £479 for the 42mm variant.

The analyst also predicted that the first-generation Apple Watch models will get the same processor and waterproofing upgrades as the Apple Watch 2.

Therefore if you’re a first time buyer of Apple’s smartwatch, it may be worth opting for the older model, especially as it will look similar.

ReutersCustomers look at Apple Watches after it went on display at the Apple Store in Tokyo’s Omotesando shopping district
Expect bigger changes further down the line…
While the Apple Watch 2 may currently not have that many noteworthy upgrades, 2018 is the year to expect a more substantial overhaul.

This will include 4G support, a new look, 5G network commercialisation and better medical and health applications.

Check back here as we will keep you posted on all the latest rumours surrounding the Apple Watch 2.