iWatch odds for 2013

iWatch

Probably the most repeated rumor out there at the time of this writing, everyone and their brother seems to have an opinion about Apple putting out a definitive smartwatch. I’ve explained before why I think this one is a sure thing, but in a nutshell: it makes too much sense for Apple not to do it. There was no clear definition of what a smartphone or a tablet computer was until Apple announced the iPhone and iPad. Likewise, smartwatches are a new product category that’s ready to explode. All it needs is for a heavyweight like Apple to show the world its potential.

Apple holds dozens of patents that would come in handy for a smartwatch — not the least of which is one for a curved glass touchscreen — and they know how to cram powerful technology into tiny spaces better than anyone on the planet. Most of the “work” you do on your iWatch would be done through voice commands, but depending on the size of the touchscreen, there would be room for apps as well. Imagine a device you wear around your wrist that interfaces with iCloud, on which you can dictate calendar events or compose emails, remotely control other Apple devices, use GPS and maps and all that jazz, and more. It won’t do phone calls, but iChat might be built in. And a data plan will be a must, since it’s the very definition of a mobile device. A camera for taking pictures wouldn’t make sense for a watch, but a front-facing camera for FaceTime seems like something Apple would want to do. (Calling Dick Tracy…) If not in the first generation of the device, then certainly somewhere down the road. Oh, and of course it will tell time in the most beautifully minimalistic way possible.

Futurists have long predicted wearable computing is where technology will someday go. Now, the future might be just around the corner.

iWatch odds for 2013: 2:3. It’s not a question of if, but when. If the technology is ready, then it’s coming