TORONTO – Apple’s long-awaited Watch was officially unveiled Monday in another carefully choreographed presentation by CEO Tim Cook. Here are five things to know about the high-tech timepiece:
WHAT DOES IT DO?
It wirelessly connects to an iPhone — it does require a paired iPhone to work most of its magic — and can take calls, display and respond to messages, and run a bunch of specially designed apps. One of the more interesting examples is a Starwood Hotels app that allows guests to skip the check-in desk upon arrival. The Apple Watch app will display their preassigned room number and a swipe of the device at their door allows for keyless entry.
And yes, of course, the device keeps time, within 50 milliseconds of the global time standard, says Apple.
BATTERY LIFE
Apple claims it will run for up to 18 hours before needing a charge. It will have to be removed every night to boost the battery.
TWO SIZES, THREE CATEGORIES, LOTS OF OPTIONS
The Apple Watch is available with a 38-millimetre body or 42-millimetre frame.
There are 10 different versions of the entry-level Apple Watch Sport, with the aluminum body available in silver or space grey, and five different coloured bands to choose from.
There are 20 versions of the mid-range Apple Watch, with a stainless steel body and a larger variety of (pricier) band styles available.
There are five different models in the top-tier Apple Watch Edition line, which have an 18-carat gold body.
RAID THE PIGGY BANK
In Canada, the cheapest version of the Apple Watch Sport will cost you $449, plus tax, while the fanciest Apple Watch Edition timepiece is priced at an eye-popping $22,000.
WHEN IS IT AVAILABLE?
Pre-orders begin April 10 while the watches officially go on sale two weeks later on April 24.