Although the latest rumor tips the Apple iWatch for a $300 price tag out of the gates, a new report by Morgan Stanley analyst Katy Huberty obtained by Fortune suggests millions will still purchase it in its first year.
Huberty believes the Cupertino-based company could realistically sell between 30 million and 60 million units in its first year - giving the device a slim chance of failure, according to the analyst.
Apple's dedicated group of iFans, which AlphaWise consumer surveys notes is so strong that 90 percent of existing consumers continue to buy their products, is a key reason for the strong outlook for the iWatch, Hubberty reports. That figure is especially noteworthy when compared to rivals like Samsung, Nokia and LG, whose retention rates were considerably lower at 77 percent, 58 percent and 41 percent, respectively.
Respected analyst Ming-Chi Kuo of KGI Securities, however, doesn't envision an early fall unveiling for the rumored Apple smartwatch, as many others have previously speculated, Apple Insider reports.
In a new research note obtained by the website, Kuo noted that release date schedules suggesting a late September mass manufacturing start and October launch are incorrect, as the device warrants "a new level of difficulty for Apple in regard to both hardware and software development."
Kuo added that supply constraints indicate expectations of 10 million units shipped by the end of 2014 are unlikely, with 3 million units serving as a better figure.
The smartwatch is reportedly set for an arrival with various shapes and sizes, sources "familiar with the matter" recently told The Wall Street Journal.
The publication reports that the Apple smartwatch will come with 10 sensors - including ones for health and fitness - with the intention to offer an experience that will differ from the iPhone by providing functions users won't be able to get in any old or new smartphones designed by the tech giant. The various designs, meanwhile, would help Apple better compete with the smartphone offerings from rivals such as Samsung and Google.
According to Reuters, the iWatch will feature a 2.5-inch display with a design that will be "slightly rectangular." The Reuters source added that the device's face will "protrude slightly from the band," with wireless charging and a touch screen among the anticipated features.
