Apple Watch 6 Features Blood Oxygen Saturation Measurement
20% Faster Performance Than Previous Model... Prices Starting at 539,000 KRW
Apple Watch SE with Core Features Also Released at 350,000 KRW
[Asia Economy Reporter Jinju Han] Apple unveiled the Apple Watch 6, equipped with a blood oxygen saturation feature, and the cost-effective Apple Watch SE priced in the 300,000 KRW range with a large display.
On the 15th (local time), Apple held a special event to introduce the new smartwatches, Apple Watch 6 and Apple Watch SE. Jeff Williams, Apple’s Chief Operating Officer, stated, "The Apple Watch 6 completely redefines the capabilities of a watch," adding, "It includes a blood oxygen sensor and new features that provide deeper insights into health management."
Blood Oxygen Saturation Measurement with New Blue Color Added
The appearance and price of the Apple Watch 6 are similar to its predecessor, but it adds fitness and health features. The blood oxygen saturation measurable by the Apple Watch 6 indicates the percentage of oxygen carried by red blood cells from the lungs throughout the body, showing how well oxygenated blood circulates in the body.
The blood oxygen sensor measures the reflected light from the blood on the back of the Apple Watch and uses an algorithm to measure blood oxygen levels between 70% and 100%. Measurements are taken periodically even when stationary or during sleep. Apple is also conducting research with the University of California and others on how to utilize blood oxygen saturation data in the Health app. Additionally, new watch faces, sleep tracking, automatic handwashing detection, and VO2 max health and fitness features available in watchOS 7 can be used.
The performance of the Apple Watch 6 has also improved compared to its predecessor. It is equipped with the S6 SiP based on the A13 Bionic chip used in the iPhone 11, improving performance by 20%, which speeds up app launch times. The Apple Watch 6 also supports a short-range wireless communication feature that allows it to unlock car doors with the 'Car Key' function. Charging speed has been improved for use with sleep tracking, enabling a full charge within an hour and a half. The Always-On Display (AOD) feature has been enhanced, making the screen 2.5 times brighter for better visibility outdoors in bright conditions.
A new blue color has been added to the Apple Watch 6 aluminum model, and a Product Red Apple Watch and band in red are also released. The stainless steel model adds a graphite color, a deep gray close to black, and an updated classic yellow gold color. The domestic launch price starts at 539,000 KRW for the GPS model and 659,000 KRW for the GPS + Cellular model.
Securing No.1 in Wearables... Cost-effective 'Apple Watch SE'
Apple also launched the Apple Watch SE, available for purchase in the 300,000 KRW range. The domestic price starts at 359,000 KRW for the GPS model and 419,000 KRW for the Cellular model. It supports sleep tracking, handwashing detection, and exercise measurement features available from watchOS 7 but does not support blood oxygen saturation measurement.
The Apple Watch SE features a Retina display 30% larger than the Apple Watch 3, allowing users to view notifications, messages, and exercise results on a bigger screen. It comes in an aluminum case and is compatible with the new bands released with the Apple Watch models. The price is similar to the Apple Watch 3, but its performance is twice as fast. It will be available for purchase in 27 countries, including the United States, starting from the 18th.
Jeff Williams, Apple COO, said, "The Apple Watch SE offers the design of the Apple Watch 6 and essential Apple Watch features at an affordable price," adding, "It provides users with features to stay connected, live a more active lifestyle, and pay attention to their health."
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