Apple’s iWatch to be powered by Samsung, market research firm predicts wearables will overshadow fitness device market

Apple’s forthcoming iWatch smartwatch device is likely to be powered by Samsung batteries, while a leading market research firm predicts wearable devices will overshadow the market for GPS-based fitness devices. 

According to a report in the Korea Herald, despite investigating solar and kinetic charging, sources within Apple have confirmed the company is using lithium-ion batteries for its upcoming iWatch.

Samsung SDI, South Korean compatriot LG Chem and Chinese firm Tianjin Lishen Battery are the three major suppliers of lithium-ion batteries worldwide, with both of the South Korean firms reportedly signing on as iWatch suppliers.

“Apple will utilize LG Chem’s stepped battery since it offers better longevity than others and can be applied for different shapes,” the source claims.

The news comes as leading market research firm ABI issued a report predicting the GPS-based fitness device market is likely to be entirely overshadowed by wearable smart devices this year.

Senior ABI research analyst Patrick Connolly says despite innovations in fitness devices, they are set to face a difficult battle in the market against wearable devices.

“Our forecasts for the overall GPS-enabled fitness area remain strong, hitting $US2.6 Billion in 2018, but as was the case with turn-by-turn navigation, converged devices and wearables will take an increasing part of the available market.

“The adage of keeping what we have is important here, retaining a firm eye on growth in professional users, with hardware and in particular eyewear, a major distinguisher.”