Apple may announce iWatch this year, report says
Rumors that Apple may announce a so-called iWatch are heating up.
According to Bloomberg, the tech giant could introduce a smart watch this year. Citing people familiar with the matter, the news agency says that some features being considered for the device include: making calls, maps and a pedometer.
Bloomberg's sources say that Apple has a team of 100 product designers working on "a wristwatch-like device" that share features with the iPhone and iPad. And that the tech giant has filed 79 patents containing the word "wrist."
Wearable technology is a growing trend that includes everything from watches to glasses.
The Kickstarter-funded smartwatch Pebblesold a record-breaking 85,000 watches through the crowdfunding site. The smartwatch delivers email, text messages and calendar alerts and syncs with iPhones and Android devices via Bluetooth technology. To date, the Pebble has gained over $10 million in pledges from almost 69,000 backers -- making it the most funded Kickstarter campaign yet.
Google is working on augmented-reality glassesthat use voice recognition to take commands and display information. Some examples of how the glasses can be used include turn-by-turn navigation, taking photos and translating languages on the spot. Developers can pre-order the glasses for $1,500, but there is no information about pricing or availability for consumers.
Nike's Fuelband and Jawbone UP have gained some popularity as a fitness devices. Both wrist devices sync with mobile apps to track data like daily activity or calories burned.
