Skip to main content

Apple Watch’s hardware or straps packaging potentially revealed on Apple’s new website

Apple-Watch-packaging

Apple appears to have just provided a first glimpse at the retail packaging for Apple Watch or the device’s straps via the photo above posted to a newly updated jobs page on its websiteThe white box lines up with the little information Apple has provided about the packaging for the entry-level Sport Edition and the stainless steel Watch Edition models.

We know Apple is planning a more traditional watch box that doubles as a place to store and charge the device, but that will only come with the more expensive 18k gold models. In a recent interview, Apple exec Jony Ive said “the box of the top-of-the‑range watch is aniline-dyed leather on the outside and a “sort of ultra- suede on the inside” – so far, so conventional, but there is a connector at the back that turns it into a charging dock when the watch snaps into place thanks to magnetic technology.”

In that same interview, Ive discussed the packaging and hinted the less expensive options wouldn’t get the same treatment as the gold model:

“We didn’t want the packaging to be a sort of shorthand for value, where the box needs to be big and we have to include expensive materials. We’ve always liked the idea that if we are heavy in our thinking, we can be much lighter in the implementation. So there’s huge virtue, I think, in keeping the packaging small: at least, it is the right choice environmentally, it’s easier to move things around and you don’t end up with your wardrobes full of large watch boxes that you don’t use.”

As for the Sport and Watch Editions, Apple Watch packaging will likely resemble something a little more low key like the white box in the photo above, but the small size indicates that this particular box is for the straps. Apple needs room to include documentation, the charger, and power adapter. It’s also possible those pieces of packaging represent early prototypes or boxes for the separate bands, but since these boxes line up with Ive’s comments, they’re likely what we’ll see shipping in April. 

You might not actually see Apple Watch packaging on the floor of Apple’s retail stores, however, as the company plans to display Apple Watch in custom glass top tables. It’s encouraging customers to make appointments to actually get hands-on and try the Watch before purchasing, but we’ve discovered it won’t be a requirement.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

You’re reading 9to5Mac — experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Mac on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out our exclusive stories, reviews, how-tos, and subscribe to our YouTube channel

Comments

  1. i dont think that’s the retail box for the Watch or even the Watch Sport… how you gon fit the charger in such slim package?! it’s not physically possible

    • Plava (@Zelkhana) - 9 years ago

      “facepalm” of course this is just the packaging for the Straps

    • the charger is sold separately…

      • Daniel Steinberg - 9 years ago

        Additional chargers are, though you do get one with the Watch. Below, from Apple.com.

        What’s in the box
        – – – – – – – – – – – – –
        Apple Watch
        Magnetic charging cable
        USB power adapter
        Band
        Quick start guide

      • nsxrebel - 9 years ago

        No it’s not. The charger with the shorter cable will come included with the watch. Both short ($29) and long ($39) cables will be available for purchase if you need an extra one or replacement.

      • nono68200 - 9 years ago

        Do you really think that? :O When you buy your iPhone, iPad or Mac, package includes always a charger. It will not change for Apple Watch.

  2. rogifan - 9 years ago

    The 4 people shown on that page are industrial designers. Pretty big coup for the ID shop to be featured on Apple’s main jobs page.

  3. CryptoRigs - 9 years ago

    Apple needs room to include documentation, the charger, and poe adapter. It’s also possible those pieces of packaging represen

  4. icrew - 9 years ago

    What’s a “poe adapter”? (As in “Apple needs room to include documentation, the charger, and poe adapter.”

    • Evan - 9 years ago

      I’m wondering that too. He could’ve meant to write port adapter? or PoE (thanks google) as in Power Over Internet?

      • patthecarnut - 9 years ago

        PoE is power over ethernet, no idea what crypto is referring too

    • Daniel Steinberg - 9 years ago

      “power adapter” – a USB power adapter is included with the watch

    • chasem13 - 9 years ago

      Maybe it was supposed to be “power” adapter? The piece that plugs into the wall receptacle that you then plug the USB end of the charging cable into?

  5. patthecarnut - 9 years ago

    Oh WOW Oh WOW Oh WOW!! It’s the packaging! I’m as giddy as a schoolgirl!

Author

Avatar for Jordan Kahn Jordan Kahn

Jordan writes about all things Apple as Senior Editor of 9to5Mac, & contributes to 9to5Google, 9to5Toys, & Electrek.co. He also co-authors 9to5Mac’s Logic Pros series.