Apple Defends Against DOJ Antitrust Lawsuit, Reveals Consideration for Android-Compatible Apple Watch
Apple confirms it explored making the Apple Watch compatible with Android, but technical and strategic challenges led to the project's cancellation.
- The US Department of Justice filed an antitrust lawsuit against Apple, focusing on the exclusivity of the Apple Watch to iPhone users.
- Apple admitted to considering Android compatibility for the Apple Watch but ultimately abandoned the idea due to technical limitations and strategic concerns.
- The Apple Watch's deep integration with iOS and reliance on iPhone for setup and many functionalities pose significant barriers to Android compatibility.
- Apple argues that making the Apple Watch work with Android would require a complete overhaul of the watchOS and its setup process, a task deemed not worth the effort.
- The lawsuit and Apple's defense highlight the broader debate on tech monopolies and the balance between innovation and market competition.