Apple Inc. (AAPL): Why I’m Skeptical of a Successful iWatch

But Hayek’s skepticism isn’t keeping companies from trying. Samsung has officially said they’re building one, Sony Corporation (ADR) (NYSE:SNE)‘s already released one, and Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) is reportedly working on its own smartwatch. This makes me wonder if all of these companies are building smartwatches, or saying they are, so they don’t fall behind the competition — rather than because consumers will actually buy it.

Anyone’s guess

I understand the possibilities of wearable computing, but just as Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) Glass has shown, there are challenges that the budding industry will have to overcome. Sure, it’s possible Apple could come out with a iWatch that changes the game just as much as the iPod or iPhone did, but I don’t think that’ll happen. New tech devices need to add real value to consumers, and I don’t think a smartwatch can do that right now. Between tablets and smartphones there’s already plenty of data, notifications, and mapping services for users. A smaller screen isn’t going to make any of that better.

Of course, I could be way off and an iWatch could turn wearable computing into the next big thing. But the first step to a successful product launch is recruiting the people who are already loyal to your products and want a new experience — and I’m just not there yet.

The article Why I’m Skeptical of a Successful iWatch originally appeared on Fool.com and is written by Chris Neiger.

Fool contributor Chris Neiger has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Apple, Facebook, Google, and Nike. The Motley Fool owns shares of Apple, Facebook, Google, Microsoft, and Nike.

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