Along with the iPhone announcement Apple is also expected to announce new model of the Apple Watch, dubbed as Watch Series 3 at its media event next month. Now Bloomberg is reporting on what it knows about the upcoming wearable device.
According to the report Apple Watch Series 3 will feature the ability to connect to the cellular networks on its own. This would make it capable of performing several tasks on its own without relying on the iPhone. Current Apple Watch models need to use iPhone’s data connectivity in order to download content such as music and app data. The next Watch will be able to do all these tasks on its own even when user has left his or her iPhone at home.
The LTE modems that will power next generation Watch’s mobile internet connectivity will be supplied by Intel. For the connectivity Apple is said to be in talks with US and European carriers who are also interested in selling the device to their customers.
While the reports of LTE equipped Apple Watch Series 3’s imminent release are strong, its launch can still get delayed until after end of 2017.
Having cellular internet feature seems to be the logical next step for the Apple Watch, which added GPS functionality last year. While analysts believe having cellular connectivity and being more independent of iPhone can increase the overall sales of the device some such as Gene Munster of the Loup Ventures are also worried such a functionality could also decrease its battery life.
