As excitement builds around the ever approaching Apple Watch launch in less than a month, the date for pre-orders is even closer, with April 10th marking the day when people will be able to stake their claim for an Apple Watch both online and in-store. The experience of doing so in an Apple retail outlet will largely be the same as we might expect, but given the unique nature of the watch itself, there will be some key additions to the customer journey, with Apple seeking to make the experience as similar to buying a watch at a jewellers as possible.
The experience, outlined by 9to5Mac in great detail, will see customers able to make an appointment to try on an Apple Watch at an Apple Store from April 10th. Those without appointments will be able to join a different line that will presumably move at a slower pace in a similar way to how iPhone and iPad launches are handled. Once someone has gone through the process of trying on and then selecting a watch, they will be able to pre-order one for collection on launch day.
Interestingly, Apple will not allow people to walk into a store on launch day and purchase an Apple Watch, meaning those wanting to get hold of one on April 24th will need to ensure they have a pre-order placed either via the in-store process or on the Apple website.
The process of trying the watch in-store will include a range of units in a demo loop for people to look at, while units for customers to try on will be kept in secure drawers built into special tables which will also feature cleaning cloths and mats similar to those found in conventional jewellery stores. Apple will also allow people to buy additional watch bands and even AppleCare+ during the purchase phase of the encounter. There is said to be a new version of AppleCare+ on the way that covers both an iPhone and Apple Watch under the same scheme, too.
With pre-orders going live in less than a couple of weeks, now is the time to start planning which model and which band you migth want to try on.
Time is ticking on.
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