Apple has set up a dedicated platform to help other companies create straps for the Apple Watch.
The Apple Watch already has a broad array of bands on offer, but third-party straps will help draw more customers into the smartwatch fold.
The new program, titled ‘Made for Apple Watch’, offers downloads for design guidelines and Apple Watch schematics, as spotted by 9to5mac.
These are intended to allow third parties to create accessories for the device without breaking Apple’s own specifications and guidelines.
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Some of the guidelines include being environmentally considerate, and that bands must offer sufficient wrist-tightness as to allow the heartbeat sensor to work.
Interestingly, Apple also forbids third parties from integrating magnetic chargers into the bands if they want to be a certified band retailer.
Related: Apple Watch vs Android Wear
We’re slightly surprised Apple is so keen for third-party companies to produce rival straps.
Apple is charging huge premiums for its own strap collection, so this seems to be even more incentive for customers to avoid buying bands from Apple directly.
Of course, having a fleshed out strap ecosystem with lots of competition will help attract customers, so it’s all good business for Apple in the end.
The Apple Watch was made available for sale on April 24, but many pre-order customers are still waiting for their delivery of the fledgling wearable.
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Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
