'Apple Watch 2' Release Date 2016, News & Update: Price Cut Means March 2016 Next-Gen Release? More Band Designs, Improved Battery Life, FaceTime Cam In New WatchOS Device?

First-gen watchOS device Apple Watch is seeing a price slash in more than a few outlets. With price drops ranging as much as $100, consumers and watchers alike are wondering if these indicate that distributors are getting rid of old stock to make room for Apple Watch 2.

According to MacWorld, the buzz at the forefront for the Apple Watch 2 functions and features include new colors for the Sports Bands, additional tones for the Hermes bands, and a black option for the Milanese Loop. The Apple Watch 2 is also said to be releasing a whole new band line using a new material.

The new Apple Watch 2 band line is expected to retail between $1400 (£1,000) and $11,400 (£8,000). The materials being explored for the new line are said to be palladium, titanium and platinum. A magnetic wristband may also find its way into the Apple Watch 2 lines.

The Apple Watch 2 may also have FaceTime video camera, a full option of heath sensors and thinner OLED display to make room for larger batteries effectively allowing longer battery life. The Apple Watch 2 lines may see less dependence on iPhones.

Meanwhile, Forbes reports that the $100 price drop on first-generation Apple Watch applies to as many as 20 Apple Watch models in stores such as Target, Best Buy and B&H. This essentially means being able to buy a 38mm Apple Watch Sport Edition for only $249 or a 42mm stainless steel Apple Watch Milanese loop for $599.

With the current Apple Watch price drops alongside earlier reports of a March 2016 Apple event, increase in consumer interest is more than understandable. The Apple Watch 2 may be announced in the March 2016 Apple event alongside the unveiling of iPhone 6c and the iPad Air 3. Actual shipment and availability following the March 2016 Apple event may be as early as April or as late as the third quarter of 2016.