Apple Inc (NASDAQ: APPL) is planning the launch of an Apple Watch with a
rugged casing targeted at athletes, hikers, and others in more extreme
environments, Bloomberg reports. The company had internally discussed
introducing such a Watch variation later in 2021 or 2022 at the earliest.
Bloomberg notes this is Apples second attempt at a rugged smartwatch
after the 2015 debut of the popular Apple Watch. Apple has added several
sports and activity-tracking features via its annual update cycle. Casio
Computer Co Ltd (OTC: CSIOF) (OTC: CSIOY) and other watchmakers have
witnessed robust sales from sturdier product designs with extra
protection. The rugged version would be similar to Apples cheaper Apple
Watch SE and special editions co-branded with Nike Inc (NYSE: NKE) and
Hermes International SA (OTC: HESAF) (OTC: HESAY). It would have extra
impact-resistance and protection akin to Casios G-Shock watches. Apple
is also developing new swim-tracking features for the Apple Watch. The
company rolled out the cheaper Apple Watch SE and faster processor and
blood oxygen sensor with the Apple Watch Series 6 last September. The
device would be a part of the companys wearables, home, and accessories
segment, which generated over $30 billion in FY20 sales. Reportedly,
Apple owns a 40% smartwatch market share in the fourth quarter of 2020.
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