Apple Watch 3 enters final testing phase: Report

Apple Watch 3, the upcoming smartwatch from the Cupertino-based tech giant, has entered the final stage of testing, according to a report by China's Economic Daily. The report did not reveal the sources but said that the Taiwan-based manufacturer Quanta Computer will start the mass production "as long as the test is successful."

The report further revealed that Apple will start shipping the Apple Watch Series 3 in the fourth quarter in tow screen sizes -- 38mm, 42mm.

A recent report from CNBC suggested the Apple Watch 3 will feature cellular connectivity. The report, citing sources, suggests that the wearable device won't be requiring iPhone's connectivity for certain features. This will make it a standalone device, unlike the previous versions.

However, KGI Securities analyst and Apple tipster Ming-Chi Kuo in his latest note has rubbished these claims, reports Mac Rumours. Kuo says that the next-gen Apple Watch is 'unlikely' to come with such a feature. He says that the feature is 'feasible' but the company should first improve the 'user experience of data transmission.' As a result, the Apple Watch 3 may not include the feature, at least this year.

Apple Watch 3 to sport all-new design

This year's edition of Apple Watch, widely expected to be called Apple Watch 3, will reportedly sport an all-new design.

He adds that the LTE versions may also be limited to certain regions only. Past rumours have indicated that carrier companies like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile will support the LTE Apple Watch.

But Kuo did confirm that the watch could come with VoIP services such as FaceTime and Skype. For those unaware, FaceTime audio calling support is already included in current Apple Watch models.

As mentioned by Apple during WWDC 2017 in July, Apple will be releasing its WatchOS 4 later this year. the WatchOS 4 has a dedicated Siri watch face for easier access to the company's virtual assistant. The particular watch face uses machine learning to adapt to the user's daily activities. In addition, when the user raises the wrist, the watch face dynamically updates. It also gives access for controlling home app functionalities.