Thousands of apps planned for Apple Watch
LOS ANGELES -- Along with a new smartwatch, Apple is introducing "thousands" of new apps, with most set to launch on April 24, when the new i-timepiece officially goes on sale.
The apps promise a different feel than we've gotten used to on the phone. Think of them as short bites, leading to a bigger menu.
The apps work in conjunction with the iPhone, which powers them up. You'll also need the iPhone to get the apps, from the new Watch app store.
Apps have been reimagined for the Watch, offering limited information on a small screen. In many cases, they push the user back to the iPhone app to continue.
In other cases, they offer a new take on the app experience.
Here's a look at some of the more interesting apps for the Watch:
-- Directions. Target's app shows you how to find your favorite products in store. Dictate what you're looking for by talking to your wrist, and the app will get you there.
-- Quick hit. Our own USA TODAY app spotlights the top 5 trending stories of the moment. And the New York Times app offers one sentence articles. Yahoo's News Digest app updates every 60 seconds, with the "most important story of the hour."
-- Hail a cab. With just one clock on Uber's ride-hailing app, eliminating many of the steps on the phone app. You just have to assume that GPS got your location right.
-- Remote control. Even if your iPhone is docked and charging and not on you, you can still control your Pandora playlist or advance to the next song with with Pandora watch app. Apogee's Meta Recorder app for the Watch lets you start and stop audio recording, in conjunction with the free iPhone app, and set markers for the most interesting portions of a speech or recital.
-- Open the door. Apps for hotel chains W and Starwood let you enter your room door with a flick of the wrist.
-- Tickets. Board an airline via the American Airlines app or enter a movie theater with Fandango's app by showing the ticket on your wrist.
To get the apps, first you'll have to upgrade your phone to the latest iOS software, version 8.3, to find the tab to the new Watch store.
The store is expected to go live by April 24.
