NZ misses out as Cupertino unveils Apple Watch first release dates

“Apple Watch begins a new chapter in the way we relate to technology and we think our customers are going to love it."

New Zealanders will have to wait a little while longer to get their hands on the soon to be released Apple Watch, with Apple’s “most personal device” yet set to be available on April 24 to customers in Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, the UK and the US.

Revealed this morning in San Francisco, the tech giant bills the product as an “accurate timepiece and immediate communication” device, featuring “groundbreaking” health and fitness companion.

Highly customisable for personal expression, the Apple Watch also offers third-party app experiences designed specifically for the wrist.

“Apple Watch begins a new chapter in the way we relate to technology and we think our customers are going to love it,” says Tim Cook, CEO, Apple.

“We can’t wait for people to start wearing Apple Watch to easily access information that matters, to interact with the world, and to live a better day by being more aware of their daily activity than ever before.”

The Apple Watch also introduces technologies including the Digital Crown, a new way to scroll, zoom and navigate fluidly without obstructing the display.

Furthermore, the Retina display with Force Touch on Apple Watch senses the difference between a tap and a press, providing a new way to access relevant controls.

In addition, the all-new Taptic Engine aims to deliver a “gentle tap” on your wrist whenever you receive a notification or message.

“Conceived, designed and developed as a singular product, Apple Watch merges hardware and software like never before,” adds Jony Ive, Senior vice president of Design, Apple.

“In Apple Watch, we’ve created three beautifully curated collections with a software architecture that together enable unparalleled personalisation in a wearable device.”

Pricing & Availability

Beginning April 10 in Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, the UK and the US, Apple Watch will be available for preview, try-on by appointment at Apple’s retail stores, and available for pre-order through the Apple Online Store.

On April 24, Apple Watch will be available online or by reservation in Apple’s retail stores while customers who purchase online or in-store from Apple will be offered Personal Setup to customise and pair Apple Watch with their iPhone.

Apple Watch is available in three collections, Apple Watch Sport, priced at $349 (US) and $399 (US); Apple Watch, available from $549 (US) to $1,099 (US); and Apple Watch Edition, crafted from custom rose or yellow 18-karat gold alloys, with prices starting at $10,000 (US).

Apple Watch requires iPhone 5, iPhone 5c, iPhone 5s, iPhone 6 or iPhone 6 Plus running iOS 8.2. or later with iOS 8.2 available for download today.

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