Apple Watch Hasn’t Even Launched Yet & It’s Already Inspiring Knock-Offs
The Apple Watch won’t hit the market until April 24, but it’s already launched several imitation devices. Alibaba Group already has several knock-offs for sale on its site, according to Market Watch. They’re reportedly selling out as well.
Alibaba’s list of “hot items on sale” includes a device called the AW08 watch, which looks similar to the highly anticipated Apple Watch. It also claims to have “the same design as Apple’s iWatch.” The smartwatch also includes functions not offered by the official Apple Watch, such as a longer battery life and compatibility with Google Android’s operating system.
It can reportedly run up to 120 hours, and it can run both Android and Apple’s operating systems. (Not at the same time, of course.) This watch also allows users to customize the theme and interface for added personalization of the time display or app setup.
The image of the AW08 looks identical to the latest Apple Watch. It shows a collection of apps displayed on the home screen and a knob and button located on the right side of the watch’s face, like the original.
The AW08 is priced at 368 yuan or $59 U.S. dollars. It comes in four colors, including an 18-karat gold version with an orange leather strap and stainless steel case. It’s obviously an imitation of the Edition Apple Watch that retails at $17,000, as previously reported by the Inquisitr.
That’s not the only Apple Watch knockoff that’s selling on the site. The Bluefield Daily Telegraph noticed one that’s called the Apple Smart Watch with Bluetooth Bracelet. It includes a text messaging app and a music player. This watch is 288 yuan or $45 U.S. dollars, which is cheaper than the $349 Apple Watch – the least expensive of the line.
The faux Apple Watches can be shipped out via next-day delivery from Shenzhen to anywhere in China, according to the site.
Alibaba has faced its share of controversy over its sale of counterfeit goods. The popular Taobao e-commerce site said it’s taking the appropriate steps to correct this problem. The company even released a statement saying that it’s also taking action against its vendors.
“Alibaba Group is dedicated to the fight against counterfeits. We work closely with our government partners, brands and industry associations to tackle this issue at its source. We also utilize technology like data mining and big data to scrub our platforms of counterfeits.”
Apple announced that consumers from China and Hong Kong can preorder its watch on April 10, the same day it takes orders in Britain, France, Germany, Japan, and the U.S., says the New York Post. Would you consider buying an Apple Watch knock-off, or would you rather buy the real thing?
[Image: Apple]
