iOS 8.2 beta SDK packs the tools to bring smartwatch app ideas to life
The Apple Watch app assault can officially begin, with the Cupertino tech giant officially releasing WatchKit within the latest iOS beta SDK.
And while that may well be the driest, most technical opening sentence that you’ve read on Wareable, it is reason to be excited.
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It means that, by the time the Apple Watch launches next year, we can expect to see a wealth of apps on offer and not experience a similar sparse cupboard to the one we faced when Android Wear first went live.
However, just like the existing Android Wear apps, which on the whole are simply extensions of existing Android smartphone apps, the Apple Watch apps are also dependent on tethering to a smartphone (an iPhone, of course).
For now, WatchKit gives developers the opportunity to apply actions to notifications and information to Glances. Standalone app development won’t be afforded to devs for launch – unsurprisingly Apple is keeping its Watch garden walls pretty closely guarded.
“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,” said Philip Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing.
“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.”
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The iOS 8.2 SDK beta, which includes the new WatchKit software is available for iOS Developer Program members now.
We’re excited to see what they come up with. If you’ve got a killer smartwatch app idea, let us know using the comments below. We promise not to rip-off any outstanding suggestions.
