Rumors about a special project from Apple to create a wearable tech device have been circulating around the tech world for quite some time. Most rumors point to the development of a smartwatch wrist accessory commonly referred to as the "iWatch."
A new report from 9to5Mac outlines Apple's supposed secret team of developers who are thought to be working on the device. Leading the team is senior vice president of technologies Bob Mansfield. Below him is former Adobe executive Kevin Lynch, who is reportedly heading up software. According to The Verge, Lunch is working on an Apple smartwatch while James Foster is in charge of the all hardware that has to do with the project.
Joining the team is also a bevy of biometrics and wearable tech experts uncluding exiles from AccuVein, C8 MediSensors and Senseonics - all companies that specialize in sensor technologies.
The final piece in Apple's smartwatch secret team is fitness consultant Jay Blahnik, who was reportedly hired by Apple. Blahnik's career includes working for Nike's Fuel Band, which many could consider the iWatch's proof of concept as Apple's CEO Tim Cook spoke favorably about it in past interviews.
INIn addition, Apple recently hired former Yves Saint Laurent CEO Paul Deneve as a vice president set to work on "special projects" a title that seems fitting of a man who is possibly on a team of secret innovators creating a smartwatch. The former fashion designer is rumored to be there in order to ensure that, unlike the Google Glass, Apple's first foray into wearable tech is something that is actually stylish.
Full bios of those on the team can be found at 9to5Mac HERE.
Apple has recently sought out patents on the device's acquired nickname "iWatch" in countries like Japan and Russia. Ever since the Google Glass gained popularity, those innovating in the tech world have seen more and more appeal and merit in building devices that can be easily worn on the body. With the Google Glass largely untested in the mass market field, a smartwatch seems like a safe rout to take with a first foray into wearable tech.
