Apple iWatch Mass Production Start Nears, Suggesting October Release Date: Report

A new 9to5Mac report suggests the Apple iWatch may finally be ready for mass production.

Documents related to Apple partner GT-Advanced Technologies reveals new research that suggests GT has begun producing sapphire glass for a jewelry product believed to be the tech giant's rumored smartwatch. The report adds that the product was not previously listed in GT documents that showed orders for sapphire glass displays possibly for the iPhone 6.

The difference in time between the two filings also may suggest that if the iPhone 6 is set to debut in September, the iWatch will release in October.

Check out the full 9to5Mac report by Mark Gurman for the full scoop.

A recent survey from investment firm Piper Jaffray similarly suggests consumers aren't necessarily seeing the appeal of smartwatches yet.

When asked the question, "Would you buy an Apple iWatch if it cost you $350?," just 14 percent of survey-takers indicated they would pick up the device, CNET reports.

Piper Jaffray's survey of 100 people, which targeted North American adults with an average age of 32 and a household income of $130,000, was about on-par with previous poll results from the firm - 12 percent in October and 17 percent (with teens) this past spring.

The figures certainly aren't a great indication that consumers have changed their minds on smartwatches. One way Apple hopes to do make the device more appealing, however, is with health and fitness-based features.

Among those polled by Piper Jaffray, 18 percent indicated they already own a fitness band (half of which were FitBit products). Fifty-six percent of those who own the band said that they wear it every day. Meanwhile, 18 percent of those who did not own a fitness band indicated they plan on buying one over the next year.

What do you make of the iWatch? Would you be interested in an Apple smartwatch? Let us in on your thinking with a relevant comment.