Even Apple hasn't cracked the smartwatch battery code: A new report suggests the upcoming Apple Watch will provide up to 3.5 hours of app use between charges.
That number drops to 2.5 hours if you're constantly checking social media, stock prices, or sports scores.
The Apple S1 chip and Retina-class display might result in hefty battery loss, according to 9to5Mac, which cited people with knowledge of the Apple Watch's development.
Leave the wearable in standby or low-power mode, and you may be able to squeeze two to three days out of it. Or, oddly enough, switch on the fitness-tracking software for nearly four hours of exercise tracking on a single charge, 9to5 Mac said.
Still, the Apple Watch is likely not intended for near-constant use. "That's why the Watch will be able to last the average user roughly a day on a single charge," 9to5Mac said. "We're told that Apple has been shooting for roughly 19 hours of mixed usage each day, but that the company may not hit that number in the first-generation version."
Early last year, Cupertino was rumored to be experimenting with wireless and solar charging efforts for its smartwatch—a far cry from the circular magnetic connector expected to ship this year.
Apple fans may get their wrists on the new wearable as early as March: Recent reports tip "extensive testing programs" at Apple retail stores next month, ahead of a March rollout.
Cupertino unveiled its long-awaited device is early September, showing off three variant with different bands: Apple Watch, Apple Watch Sport, and Apple Watch Edition.
Available in a 38mm or 42mm watch face, the wearable requires an iPhone connection (everything from the 5 to 6 Plus), and provides easy access to Siri, apps, photos, directions, and communication services.
For more, see PCMag's Hands On With the Apple Watch and the slideshow above. Also check out 5 Reasons the Apple Watch Is a Winner and 5 Wearables More Interesting Than the Apple Watch, as well as Why I Won't Buy an Apple Watch.
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