Apple has made it possible for software developers to start creating applications that interact with its forthcoming Apple Watch, which is expected to go on sale early next year. The company’s new WatchKit software will offer developers the ability to create watch-centric apps and link other apps to the watch without having a physical device to work with.
According to Apple, developers can allow users to take actions using the watch - such as turning the lights off after they’ve left a ‘smart’ house - as well as accessing information and having essential notifications sent to the watch. Developers can’t yet create standalone ‘native’ apps for the Apple Watch; this ability is due to be added next year.
Philip Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing, said “Apple Watch is our most personal device ever, and WatchKit provides the incredible iOS developer community with the tools they need to create exciting new experiences right on your wrist. With the iOS 8.2 beta SDK, developers can now start using WatchKit to create breakthrough new apps, Glances and actionable notifications designed for the innovative Apple Watch interface and work with new technologies such as Force Touch, Digital Crown and Taptic Engine.”
The Apple Watch will work with Apple iPhone 5, 5c, 5s, 6 and 6 Plus smartphones running iOS8. There’ll be three designs and a choice of two screen sizes: 38mm (340 x 272 pixels) or 42mm (390 x 312). Pricing will be from $349 in the USA; that’s the equivalent of around £225, although UK pricing hasn’t been confirmed.