iWatch Release Date, Specs & Features: Tim Cook Talks Voice Messaging

Rumors about the iWatch have been circulating for a while but this recent comment by Apple CEO Time Cook is the nearest confirmation the public has received regarding Apple's rumored iWatch wearable technology.

Speaking to USB analyst Steve Milunovich, Cook commented on the importance of voice messaging and its relation to a possible watch gadget.

Milunovich said, as quoted by TechnoBuffalo.com:

"When we visited with Tim Cook, he said that walking down streets in China one sees people speaking into their phones sending voice rather than text messages. Porting this capability to the watch makes sense as it is easier to send a voice message from a device already on the wrist than pulling out a phone. It also could aid penetration of China, which Cook said has a ways to go."

Many have pointed to these comments as Tim Cook's half-hearted admission of the eventual release of an iWatch. Given this report, Apple Insider wrote that the "iOS 8's new voice messaging feature could trickle down to a long-rumored 'iWatch' wearable device, noting the gesture-based messaging technique is ideal for small-screened devices."

Apple's next generation iOS 8, that was previewed by Apple earlier this year, has a voice messaging technology built specifically for messages that gives users an effortless alternative to messaging other than the existing text-based input.

The technology for the voice messaging system is quite straight-forward. With a simple tap of the record button, users can record quick voice notes with a second gesture, giving the user the option to send or delete their audio message.

The device could be likened to a 2-way wrist radio which can send voice messages to-and-from the users, allowing easy conversation.

Relatedly, CultofMac recalled an earlier rumor about Apple's alleged move to assemble a special team of voice recognition experts who will improve the speech recognition of Apple's Siri. Many have been frustrated with Siri's performance and her favorite response, "Sorry, I didn't get that."

Various supposed insiders have pegged an October 2014 release of the iWatch. The device, reports say, will have a number of useful health uses, especially when paired with iOS 8's health app. Its sensors will provide the ability to detect both movement and health-related vitals that include one's blood sugar readings and the user's heart rate.

Additionally, rumors suggest that Apple has tapped partnerships with big names like Nike for the design as well as L.A. Lakers baller Kobe Bryant, among other pro athletes, to test the technology.

No official confirmation on the project has been released by Apple.