At this point in time, the Apple IPhone 7 is the hottest topic of discussion among Apple watchers but at the same time it needs to be pointed out that the launch of the Apple Watch 2 has gone under the radar a bit, although it would certainly garner a great amount of attention when the launch date nears. Apple watchers have however been able to unearth some details on what one should expect from the Apple Watch 2, thanks to analyst Ming -Chi Kuo's note that was meant for investors.
According to a report in TheVerve, "Apple is said to be planning two new models of the Watch for 2016. The bigger upgrade, dubbed "Apple Watch 2" for now, will reportedly have "the same general design" as the current Watch, but include new internal components such as a GPS radio, a barometer, a thinner display, and a new, faster 16nm processor from TSMC. These features will require a larger battery, according to Kuo, preventing Apple from cutting down on the device's size. The second 2016 Apple Watch model sounds like a smaller upgrade - it won't get the Apple Watch 2's new features, according to the note, and the industrial design will stay the same with some updated components. It may mark a price cut for the range."
On the other hand, the website MacRumors stated, "The analyst (Kuo) also predicted that upgraded first-generation Apple Watch models will debut in the second half of 2016 with the same processor and waterproofing upgrades, but likely without the Apple Watch 2's most significant additions like a GPS and barometer. Kuo expects another Apple Watch price cut once the new models are launched, but remains conservative about prospective shipments in 2017.
Apple Watch shipments could rise further between 2018 and 2020, pending significant form factor changes, FDA approvals supporting more medical and health applications, and 5G network commercialization, according to Kuo.
Apple has been pushing iPhone and Apple Watch sales together, so updated models of each device launching in tandem would be appropriate. "
