Apple Watch 2 Release Date, Price and Specs – CNET

The Apple Watch 2 is official, and it’s waterproof.

The second-generation model, which is officially called Apple Watch Series 2, adds a faster dual-core processor, improved graphics and GPS, which can be used to measure pace, distance and speed when running and biking. But the highlight feature will be the added waterproofing. The new model is waterproof up to 50 meters (164 feet) and can be worn while showering and even swimming.

Check out Scott Stein’s hands-on video from the Apple event in San Francisco below:

The Series 2 looks exactly like last year’s Apple Watch. Some people may not be thrilled with that, but the improvements are all in performance, and we weren’t able to test those in our brief hands-on with the watch. What I was really hoping for was some new watch faces via some sort of watch face store, but that never materialized.

Apple has said that the faster processor and the WatchOS 3 software, which arrives on older Apple Watch models on September 13, should improve app performance and navigating through the interface. The display on the new watch has also been updated and is now two times brighter than the original Apple Watch. In fact, Apple said that it is the “brightest display Apple has ever shipped.”

James Martin/CNET

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Despite some rumors, Apple decided not to include cellular functionality. That means you must still be connected to an iPhone to use a majority of the watch’s features (aside from those that use GPS, of course). This is different from the Samsung Gear S3, which includes LTE and can be used independently of your smartphone.

Oddly enough, Apple chose not to discuss battery life, which was an area of frequent criticism on the original model. The inclusion of GPS will affect battery life, and it remains unclear how long the watch will last between charges. The original Apple Watch lasted about a day to a day and a half.

James Martin/CNET

The Apple Watch Series 2 will be available for $369 in aluminum and stainless steel. There’s also a slick new ceramic model, which is said to be four times harder than stainless steel. Like its predecessor, the Apple Watch Series 2 will be available in two sizes: 38mm and 42mm.

But that’s not it. Apple also announced a partnership with Nike for a special Apple Watch Nike+ edition that is designed for runners. It features an aluminum case and a funky silicon strap that makes the watch feel like a Nike FuelBand and Apple Watch had a little baby. There are some built-in Nike running features, but for the most part it’s a normal Series 2 watch. The Nike+ model will be available for $369 in October.

The original Apple Watch is gone, but Apple did announce the Apple Watch Series 1. This is essentially the original Apple Watch, but with the faster processor from the Series 2 model. Apple has said the new processor should make the Series 1 up to 50 percent faster than the original model. The Apple Watch Series 1 will be available for $269.

Preorders start on September 9. Both the Series 2 and Series 1 watches will be available on Sept 16.

You can see full pricing below:

Apple Watch pricing

*Hermes versions for the 38mm Steel model go up to $1,299, £1,299, AU$2,029

**Hermes versions for the 42mm Steel model go up to $1,399, £1,399, AU$2,189

Updated 1:40 p.m. PT with hands-on video. Check out all of today’s Apple news.