Today marks a seminal moment in Apple history and the future of the mobile economy. The announcements from Cupertino are reminiscent of groundbreaking launches like the iPod and the iPhone. Except for one thing.
There isn’t just one thing. Apple did more today than introduce a new device. The announcements today will reshape the industry and revolutionize how we stay healthy, pay for transactions, interact with our home, as well as tell time.
Years from now, we may look back on today as the date when the mobile health revolution began. Or when wallets became a thing of the past. Or when consumers took control of their digital lives.
Apple didn’t just launch new products today. It gave us a glimpse of the future that is now upon us. And it’s amazing.
Apple Pay
The idea behind mobile payments is not a new one. What has limited the growth of mobile device transactions is the lack of widespread adoption from retailers and financial institutions. Just as with the iPod launch, Apple secured partnerships with major industry leaders to benefit the most consumers. With American Express, Visa, and MasterCard signed on as well as many leading retailers, more than 80 percent of users can make seamless payments from their iPhone or Apple Watch. With Touch ID integration, consumers can be confident their Apple Pay transactions will be private, safe, and secure.
Apple Watch
While others have tried to make a digital watch do more than tell time, none have succeeded in captivating consumers like Apple has. Anticipation for what Cupertino was planning has been mounting because they make devices we’ve just got to have – and with Apple Watch they didn’t disappoint. Its design is simply stunning and its functionality is unmatched. App developers are excited about the opportunity to use WatchKit to extend their apps onto such an incredible device. There’s no question why Apple invited so much of the fashion world cognoscenti to be on hand for this unveiling. Without a doubt, this is on everyone’s wish list now.
Health
Devices take a lot of attention at product launches, but what may be just as significant is what these can do in the healthcare space. With the watch launch and new sensors on the phone, Apple has laid down a marker as a leading mobile health innovator right out of the gate. With sensors to measure heart rate, activity and elevation working with apps that monitor progress and provide encouragement, Apple Watch is designed to help users meet fitness goals to lead a healthier life. All of this data is stored the iOS 8 Health app for users to access in a safe and secure environment.