Next Apple Watch will not be iPhone-independent, report says

It will get a GPS chip, though.
By
Stan Schroeder
 on 
Original image replaced with Mashable logo
Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

If you're hoping for an Apple Watch that can function pretty much on its own, even when your iPhone's not present, you'll likely have to wait a little longer.

According to a Bloomberg report, which quotes people familiar with the matter, Apple has tried to integrate a cellular chip into the next version of the Watch, but it just didn't work out, mainly due to battery life concerns.

This does not mean it will never happen; Apple will keep trying, but it's just not ready to ship an iPhone-independent Watch this year.

Mashable Light Speed
Want more out-of-this world tech, space and science stories?
Sign up for Mashable's weekly Light Speed newsletter.
By clicking Sign Me Up, you confirm you are 16+ and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up!

Instead, the new Apple Watch that we'll probably see this year -- likely called the Apple Watch 2 -- will have a GPS chip and improved health tracking, Bloomberg says.

The GPS rumors isn't new; we've heard that exact same thing earlier in August. That report also claimed the upcoming Apple Watch will come in two variants, one with an improved processor, and the other with a GPS radio and a barometer.

A GPS-equipped Apple Watch would mean more accurate navigation as well as better tracking of activities such as running.

The new Apple Watch will likely be launched in the fall; possibly alongside the new iPhone, which is rumored to be unveiled in early September.

Stan Schroeder
Stan Schroeder
Senior Editor

Stan is a Senior Editor at Mashable, where he has worked since 2007. He's got more battery-powered gadgets and band t-shirts than you. He writes about the next groundbreaking thing. Typically, this is a phone, a coin, or a car. His ultimate goal is to know something about everything.


Recommended For You
Only Apple's cheapest watch is getting a redesign this year, new report claims
Apple Watch SE

Apple discontinues the iPhone SE, iPhone 14, and 14 Plus
iPhone SE


Samsung smart glasses with touchless controls nearly ready, report says
The Samsung lettering and logo can be seen on a sign on the facade of a company headquarters in Munich


Trending on Mashable
NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 10, 2025
Connections game on a smartphone

'Black Mirror' fans, be warned: DO NOT start with 'Common People'
Chris O'Dowd and Rashida Jones star in "Black Mirror: Common People."

Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 10, 2025
Wordle game on a smartphone

Dire wolves have been brought back from extinction. What does this mean?
Dire wolves Romulus and Remus next to each other in the snow at five months old.

NYT Mini crossword answers, hints for April 10, 2025
Close-up view of crossword puzzle.
The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.
These newsletters may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. By clicking Subscribe, you confirm you are 16+ and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up. See you at your inbox!