Apple's launch of the Apple Watch is like no other product launch in the company's history. The smartwatch can only be purchased online, and current shipping times stretch into July, but Tim Cook just announced that Apple Stores will begin selling the wearable in June.
When Apple launches a new iPhone and iPad, the company typically offers a way for customers to preorder the device and receive it on launch day, either shipped to the customer or for pickup in the company's retail stores. This plan has always allowed Apple's biggest fans to score the latest and greatest device.
When Apple announced that it would begin taking preorders for its brand new Apple Watch on April 10, it warned that supplies of the device would be constrained and it would only offer the device online, with no stock in-store on its April 24 launch day. When Apple opened preorders at 12:01 a.m. PT, customers were greeted with longer than normal ship times, and within a few minutes, Apple completely sold out of all models.
It appears that Apple is finally ready to give the Apple Watch the launch most Apple customers are used to, being able to walk into the company's retail store and walk out with the new device. 9To5Mac is reporting that Tim Cook held a meeting with Apple employees at its China headquarters, where he spoke about Apple Watch availability in stores.
"Regarding the Apple Watch, Cook began by telling the employees that 'the Watch could not be going better, we're working really hard on making more.' Cook joked that Apple wishes it had more operations staff and engineers to make the launch go even smoother, according to the sources," reported 9To5Mac. "Notably, Cook promised that Apple Stores will begin carrying Apple Watch stock 'by June.' This indicates that comments from Angela Ahrendts in April are still on track. For the first time, Cook also confirmed that the upcoming June in-store launch will include the company's stores in China."
It's unclear exactly when in June Apple will begin offering the Apple Watch in its retail stores. Once we hear any new information regarding in-store availability, we'll pass it on. Have you ordered an Apple Watch and received it yet, or are you waiting to pick it up at an Apple retail store? Let us know in the comments below.
