With just three weeks to go before the retail sale of the Apple Watch, Apple is pushing out a handful of instructional videos for its first-ever wearable. Prospective buyers now have more device information before getting the opportunity to try one on or make a purchase.
In addition to the tutorial videos, Apple is reportedly putting the finishing touches on AppleCare plans for the three different Watch devices, with the high-end support plan supposedly costing $999.
There are four individual videos providing insight on everything from the Watch's digital touch and face all the way to the messaging function and other technology features. It's just the initial wave of tutorials expected before the Watch lands in Apple retail stores and at the Genius bar by April 24. Pre-order and "try-on" opportunities begin on April 10.
According to Apple's guided tour site, future tutorials will focus on phone calls, Siri, maps, music, activity, Apple Pay and the "workout" function. The "welcome" video is just about four minutes long.
In related news, Apple is also reportedly getting support and Watch Care plans set up, with some early indicators revealing that a support program for the Watch Edition, which starts at about $10,000, will cost $999.
The AppleCare+ will be priced differently for each Watch product. The basic Apple Watch Sport plan, for example, will supposedly cost $59. The second tier, for the stainless steel Apple Watch Sport, will be $20 more.
The free one-year warranty program for the first two products, Watch Sport and the stainless steel version, will cover hardware fixes and three months of support. The highest end wrist device, the Edition, will come with a two-year warranty and 24/7 support for two years and support for up to two accidental hardware incidents.
Apple is implementing a unique try-on and purchase approach with the Watch. Potential buyers will have to make an appointment to make an in-store purchase starting on April 24. Prior to that, on April 10, customers can visit Apple retail locations, without an appointment, to try on the Watch.
Apple has been busy revamping and redesigning its retail storefronts to provide a special "try-on" area within the store.
