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Original Apple Watch launch finally happens: Today in Apple history

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April 24: Today in Apple history: Original Apple Watch launch date April 24, 2015: The original Apple Watch launch means consumers, who endured a seven-month wait after the device’s unveiling at a keynote the previous September, can finally strap an Apple wearable onto their wrists.

Apple CEO Tim Cook describes the smartwatch as the “next chapter in Apple history.”  Behind the scenes, however, the first Apple Watch launch is a moment long in the making.

The original Apple Watch launch

Apple Watch begins a new chapter in the way we relate to technology and we think our customers are going to love it,” said Apple CEO Tim Cook in a March 2015 press release setting the April 24 launch date for the first Apple Watch. “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.”

Repeatedly described as Apple’s “most personal device yet,” the new wearable put several innovations on wearers’ wrists — and Apple was quick to tout its hardware savvy.

Digital Crown, Taptic Engine and other hardware innovations

The Apple Watch’s Digital Crown — a small knob on the smartwatch’s side — provided an “innovative way to scroll, zoom and navigate fluidly without obstructing the display,” the company said. And an “all-new Taptic Engine discreetly delivers a gentle tap on your wrist whenever you receive a notification or message.”

The very first Apple Watch came in two sizes, 38mm and 42mm, and in three separate models: the aluminum Apple Watch Sport (with prices starting at $349), the stainless steel Apple Watch (starting at $549) and the ultra-pricey, 18-karat gold Apple Watch Edition (starting at a mind-blowing $10,000).

Interchangeable watch bands and watch faces gave Apple Watch owners multiple ways to make the device their own.

Similar to the way Apple co-founder Steve Jobs described the iPhone as a device that did three things, the company boiled down Apple Watch functionality into three distinct categories. The watch served as “incredibly accurate timepiece, an intimate and immediate communication device and a groundbreaking health and fitness companion,” Apple said in a press release announcing the Apple Watch launch date.

A post-Steve Jobs device

Given that Steve Jobs died in October 2011 and the Apple Watch came out in 2015, it wasn’t the first post-Jobs Apple device by any stretch of the imagination. It was, however, the first major new product line to launch in the post-Jobs era.

In this way, Apple Watch was something like the Newton MessagePad, the device shepherded through production by Apple CEO John Sculley in the 1990s. (Jobs left Apple in 1985 after a failed boardroom coup.)

Just as the Newton reflected the tech industry’s first tentative steps toward embracing mobile computing in the 1990s, the Apple Watch signaled the arrival of wearables.

“There was a sense that technology was going to move onto the body,” Alan Dye, the man in charge of Apple’s human interface group, told Wired. “We felt like the natural place, the place that had historical relevance and significance, was the wrist.”

Did Steve Jobs know about Apple Watch?

There’s a bit of confusion as to whether Jobs was involved in the early stages of the Watch’s development. The aforementioned Wired article claims that Apple design chief Jony Ive only thought about an Apple-branded watch after Jobs’ death. However, Tim Bajarin — an Apple analyst who, unlike many, actually knew Jobs for more than three decades — said, “Steve was aware of the Watch” and “didn’t nix it as a product.”

Conceptualization of the Apple Watch took place around the time that Apple engineers were busy working on iOS 7, a major overhaul that eliminated skeuomorphism from iPhone’s user interface. After that, Apple’s smartwatch began to develop as a product. Apple recruited various smart-sensor experts to create a device that would offer something fundamentally different from the iPhone.

The original Apple Watch launch also marked an attempt by Apple to become more of a luxury brand. Going back to the company’s earliest days, Cupertino drew parallels between its computers and aspirational goods like high-end cars.

However, decisions like making a $17,000 Apple Watch Edition and showing off the device at Paris Fashion Week marked a strategy shift that embraced high-end fashion in a way Apple hadn’t overtly done before.

Original Apple Watch launch is the start of something big

Apple first showed off its smartwatch on September 9, 2014, during the media event revealing the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus. The show took place at The Flint Center for the Performing Arts in Cupertino, California. (That’s where Jobs debuted the first Mac in 1984 and the Bondi Blue iMac G3 in 1998.)

While not the breakout product either of those machines were, Apple Watch remains a major hit in its own right. A 2021 estimate by Above Avalon put the number of Apple Watch wearers at 100 million. And a 2022 survey showed that Apple Watch dominates the smartwatch category, with a commanding 36% slice of the market. (Apple refuses to release Apple Watch sales numbers, but regularly talks up the wearable’s high satisfaction rate among early adopters.)

With the latest models, Apple Watch finally feels more like its own device and not so much an iPhone accessory. Health and fitness features, like the life-saving ECG heart-rate sensor, have become major selling points. Cupertino continues to refine the Apple Watch design, shrinking bezels and adding new features like an always-on display.

In 2022, the Apple Watch Ultra — a bigger, brawnier model designed for extreme athletes — brought the first major expansion of the product line. Plus, Apple continues to work on even more advanced health sensors, like monitors for high blood pressure and blood glucose levels. (A legal setback in 2024 forced Apple to deactivate the blood oxygen sensor in Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 models. Apple plans to appeal.)

Finally, it seems that the Apple Watch has found its niche.

What’s your take on Apple Watch?

What’s your view of the Apple Watch at this point? Are you a loyal customer, who couldn’t do without Apple’s wearable? Leave your comments below.



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Adobe’s next big project is an AI that can upscale low-res video to 8x its original quality

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A group of Adobe researchers recently published a paper on a new generative AI model called VideoGigaGAN and we believe it may launch on a future product. What it does is upscale low-quality videos by up to eight times their original resolution without sacrificing stability or important aspects of the source material. Several demo clips can be found on the project’s website showing off its abilities. It can turn a blurry 128×128 pixel resolution video of a waterfall into footage running at a resolution of 1,024×1,024 pixels.

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What’s noteworthy about the AI is it doesn’t skimp out on the finer details. Skin texture, wrinkles, strands of hair, and more are visible on the faces of human subjects. The other demos also feature a similar level of quality. You can better make out a swan swimming in a pond and the blossom on a tree thanks to this tech. It may seem bizarre to be focusing so much on skin wrinkles or feathers. However, it is this level of detail that companies like Adobe must nail down if they aim to implement image-enhancing AI on a wide scale.

Improving AI

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Meta is cutting off support for the original Quest headset at the end of April

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Support for the original Oculus Quest headset will soon end as Meta has sent out emails to developers informing them of the company’s future plans for the device. Forbes managed to get their hands on the details, and according to their report, the tech giant is going to be strict. They really do not want the headset to stick around.

Developers have until April 30 to roll out any “app updates for the Quest 1 to the Meta Quest store.” Past that date, nothing will be allowed to be released even if dev teams want to continue catering to users of the older model. Meta will outright block the patch. 

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Emma Original Pillow review | TechRadar

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STEVE Martin documentary announced by Apple Original Films

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STEVE Martin documentary

Get ready to step into the shoes of a comedy legend. Apple Original Films is about to unveil a captivating documentary that will take you on a journey through the life of Steve Martin. “STEVE! (martin) a Documentary in 2 Pieces” is set to premiere on Apple TV+ on March 29, 2024. This film, directed by the Oscar-winning Morgan Neville, is a deep dive into the world of a man who has made millions laugh.

Imagine sitting down to a film that splits Steve Martin’s life into two distinct chapters. The first part, titled “Then,” whisks you back to the early days of Martin’s career. You’ll see the raw, unfiltered climb of a young comedian striving to make a name for himself. The second part, “Now,” shifts to the present, showcasing Martin’s current life, filled with achievements and contentment. This unique structure allows you to witness the transformation of an ambitious performer into a celebrated and satisfied artist.

STEVE Martin documentary

The documentary doesn’t just rely on archival footage or a single narrative. It brings together a cast of famous faces who have worked with or been influenced by Martin. You’ll hear from the likes of Finn Wittrock, Martin Short, Tina Fey, Jerry Seinfeld, Eric Idle, Diane Keaton, and Selena Gomez. Their personal anecdotes and insights add layers to the story, painting a rich portrait of Martin’s influence on comedy and culture.

Behind the scenes, the partnership between A24 and Tremolo Productions ensures that the documentary is a visual and storytelling masterpiece. These companies are known for their ability to craft films that are both thought-provoking and aesthetically stunning. Their involvement promises a documentary that not only entertains but also resonates on a deeper level.

This film is more than just a biography; it’s an invitation to understand the man behind the laughter. Whether you’ve followed Steve Martin’s career for decades or you’re just discovering his genius, this documentary is a must-watch. So, remember the date, March 29, 2024, and prepare yourself for an intimate and enlightening experience with one of the true masters of entertainment. Some other articles you may find of interest on the subject of  Apple TV :

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Napoleon Apple Original Film digital release on January 9th 2024

Napoleon Apple Original Film

The historical action epic Napoleon, an Apple Original Film directed by Ridley Scott, is set to be available for premium video-on-demand and digital purchase from January 9, 2024. This release marks a significant milestone in the film’s journey, following its successful global theatrical debut. The film, which stars Joaquin Phoenix in the titular role, will be available in over 100 countries in partnership with Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, before streaming globally on Apple TV+.

“Napoleon” is a cinematic exploration of the life and career of the French emperor and military leader, Napoleon Bonaparte. The screenplay, penned by David Scarpa, provides an intimate look at Napoleon’s origins and his meteoric rise to power. The narrative is not solely focused on his military exploits and political maneuvers, but also delves into his personal life, particularly his relationship with his wife Josephine, portrayed by Vanessa Kirby.

Napoleon Apple Original Film

The film is a testament to the collaborative efforts of Apple Studios and Scott Free Productions. The production team, which includes Ridley Scott, Kevin J. Walsh, Mark Huffam, and Joaquin Phoenix, with Michael Pruss and Aidan Elliott serving as executive producers, has brought forth a visually stunning and emotionally resonant portrayal of one of history’s most influential figures.

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Since its global theatrical debut, Napoleon has garnered critical acclaim, with many praising the film’s direction, performances, and screenplay. The film’s nuanced depiction of Napoleon’s life and career, coupled with the stellar performances of its cast, has resonated with audiences and critics alike. As a testament to its quality and impact, the film has been shortlisted for several prestigious awards, including the Oscars and the EE British Academy of Film and Television Arts Awards.

The availability of Napoleon on premium video-on-demand and digital purchase from January 9, 2024, is an opportunity for audiences who missed its theatrical run to experience this cinematic tour de force. The partnership with Sony Pictures Home Entertainment ensures a wide release, making the film accessible to viewers in over 100 countries. Following this, the film will also be available for streaming globally on Apple TV+, further expanding its reach.

The release of Napoleon on premium video-on-demand and digital purchase is a significant event in the film’s journey. The collaboration between Apple Studios, Scott Free Productions, and Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has resulted in a film that not only provides a compelling depiction of Napoleon’s life and career but has also received critical acclaim and awards nominations. As of January 9, 2024, viewers around the world will have the opportunity to own or rent this remarkable film, experiencing the performances of Joaquin Phoenix, Vanessa Kirby, and the rest of the talented cast under the expert direction of Ridley Scott.

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PlayStation 5 Slim vs Original PS5 teardown

Sony PS5 Slim teardown Nov 2023

Following on from the recent unveiling of the slimmer version of the PlayStation 5 which has been aptly nicknamed the PS5 Slim. Dave2D has kindly taken his toolkit to the newest member of Sony range to carry out a PlayStation 5 Slim teardown. The PlayStation 5 Slim offers a more compact and lighter version of the original PlayStation 5, yet still maintaining the high-performance gaming capabilities of its predecessor. As well as introducing a range of design and functional improvements to meet the evolving needs of today’s gamers.

The PS5 Slim features a unique quad panel system, a design that includes four separate panels. This design is not only visually appealing but also practical, allowing easy access to the console’s internal components. A removable disc drive is another key feature, giving users the ability to easily replace or upgrade the drive without needing specialized tools or technical knowledge.

PlayStation 5 Slim teardown

The PS5 Slim also includes an SSD Bay, a slot designed for a solid-state drive. This feature gives users the option to increase their console’s storage capacity as needed. The console’s design is further enhanced by its horizontal stand, a significant change from the vertical orientation of the original PS5. This stand offers more versatile placement options, fitting a wide range of gaming setups and space configurations.

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PlayStation processing hardware

At the heart of the PS5 Slim is a 6 NM chip, a high-performance processor that ensures smooth, uninterrupted gaming. This chip, the same as the one used in the original PS5, and combined with a robust cooling system, consisting of a 19-blade fan, heat sink, radiators, and heat pipes. All carefully designed to effectively dissipate heat and maintain optimal operating temperatures.

The PS5 Slim also features a 370-watt power supply, providing enough power for the console’s high-performance components. The motherboard, which serves as the main circuit board, houses these components, including the SSD controller, storage chips, and RAM. The SSD controller manages the operations of the solid-state drive, while the storage chips and RAM provide storage for game data and temporary data, respectively.

PS5 Slim vs Original PS5

While the PS5 Slim keeps many of the key features of the original PS5, it also introduces several significant improvements. The console’s smaller, lighter design and horizontal stand offer more flexibility in placement, while the quad panel system and removable disc drive make it easier to access internal components. The PS5 Slim also offers expanded storage, boasting one terabyte of storage compared to the original’s 825 gigabytes.

Despite these improvements, the PS5 Slim maintains the high-performance capabilities of the original PS5. The console’s 6 NM chip, robust cooling system, and 370-watt power supply ensure smooth, lag-free gaming, while the SSD controller, storage chips, and RAM provide ample storage for game data.

Slim PS5 pricing and availability

  • U.S.
    • PS5 with Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive – 499.99 USD
    • PS5 Digital Edition – 449.99 USD
  • Europe
    • PS5 with Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive – 549.99 EUR
    • PS5 Digital Edition – 449.99 EUR
  • U.K.
    • PS5 with Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive – 479.99 GBP
    • PS5 Digital Edition – 389.99 GBP
  • Japan
    • PS5 with Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive – 66,980 JPY (includes tax)
    • PS5 Digital Edition – 59,980 JPY (includes tax)

The PlayStation 5 Slim is a compact yet powerful gaming console that offers several improvements over the original PlayStation 5. Its design and functional features cater to the changing needs of gamers, while its high-performance capabilities ensure a smooth, immersive gaming experience. The PS5 Slim offers gamers a console that is not only visually appealing but also highly functional and powerful.

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