Apple developers yesterday got copies of iOS8.2, and it included lots of crunchy good details about the Apple Watch. Some of the salient details:
- At launch, the watch will work essentially as an iOS notification device. You’re going to need an iPhone.
- Later in 2015, the watch will be able to run its own native apps. Does that mean there’s going to be a hardware rev in the first year?
- The two watch sizes will have the same 4:5 aspect ratio: 272 x 340 and 312 x 390 pixels. Developers should also be ready for other sizes — although it’s more likely that the changes will come in enhanced screen resolution than larger screens.
- The number and nature of interactions with the watch will be limited. Developers won’t be able to build custom gestures, and will be limited to unidirectional swipes, taps, and a “force touch” that opens up a menu.
Still no word about a shipping date, even for developers.
If you’ve got half an hour or so, take a look at Apple’s video to developers: