'Pokemon Go' for Apple Watch (Photo : Twitter)
Apple and Google spin-off Niantic Labs announced at the tech giant's fall event on September 7, Wednesday that an iOS version of "Pokémon GO" is coming to Apple Watch. The new app will send alerts when a wild Pokemon shows up, provide new information about hatching eggs, and notify when one of the game's landmarks in public places is near. This will end gamers needing to look down at their iPhones to learn if a pocket monster or Pokéstop is close.
The new smart watch app will include several features. For example, the Apple smartwatch's display will show how far players must walk to hatch an egg, and the experience points needed to get to the next level, according to The Verge.
"Pokémon GO" will also show extra information about a player's fitness level, which is in line with the new Apple Watch Series 2. It includes many fitness-tracking features such as swim-proof and built-in GPS, and a Nike+ model for runners.
Nintendo is also set to launch its Pokemon Go Plus wearable in most countries on September 16, Friday. The device has reportedly already sold out at Amazon and Gamestop.
The $35 device uses a low-energy Bluetooth connection that is consummate for health and fitness apps. It can be worn as a wrist wearable or pin. The gadget lights up when Pokémon or Pokéstops are near.
A Niantic Labs representative reported that the augmented reality (AR) Pokémon game has been downloaded over half a billion times since its North American launch in July. Gamers have also walked more than 4.6 billion km (2.8 billion miles) playing the mobile game.
The "Pokémon Go" app is set to launch for Apple Watch sometime this year.
In related news, Apple CEO Tim Cook announced at the company's iPhone event that "Super Mario" is coming to its App Store. This caused Nintendo shares to spike 28 percent in the United States, according to CNBC.
Nintendo Creative Fellow Shigeru Miyamoto introduced the future title "Super Mario Run." The basic game shows the fat plumber in overalls running to the right. Players must tap their iOS device's touchscreen to make the iconic character jump and grab coins in a set time period.
The game offers some new features for the Nintendo franchise. It can be played with one hand, and includes a new battle mode known as "toad rally."
Cook reported at the September event that Apple's App Store has 500,000 games. Meanwhile, the world's largest tech company hopes to bring back the spirit of the "Pokémon Go" summer craze.
Here's the "Super Mario Run" announcement:
