Apple expands territory, expected to launch smartwatch today

Apple’s hotly-anticipated smartwatch is expected to debut on Monday as the trend-setting firm sets out to make stylish wrist-worn computers must-have accessories for modern lifestyles.

Industry trackers say Apple Watch will star at a media event being held at the same San Francisco theatre where the California tech giant introduced the iPad.

Apple’s chief executive Tim Cook has revealed little about the sophisticated wrist wear, but has said that he “can’t live without it.”

The company announced its plans for Apple Watch last year to much fanfare and has said it would begin shipping in April. It will mark Apple’s first new product type since the iPad in 2010. Apple has indicated that the entry price would be USD 349 in the United States, and that two different sizes would be available in three collections, including the “Apple Watch Edition,” featuring 18-karat gold cases in yellow or rose, sapphire crystal and finely crafted bands and closures.

The Apple device will connect with the iPhone, and also have a range of apps and sensors, notably for health and fitness. The watch is also expected to include map software that guides people to destinations with gentle “taps” on the wrist. Fitness apps on the Apple Watch and its rivals could spell trouble for makers of fitness bands from companies like Jawbone, Fitbit and Nike.

“Apple is poised to once again show how computing platforms are won or lost on the one-two punch of eager consumers and hungry ecosystem partners,” said Forrester Research analyst James McQuivey.