Apple Watch Release Date, Features & Price: WatchKit Seeded to Developers to Create Mobile Apps

Apple released the WatchKit software to allow developers to create apps for the soon to be released Apple Watch on Tuesday.

Apple says that the early release of the WatchKit enables makers to develop apps, actionable notifications, and even Glances.

"Apple Watch is our most personal device ever, and WatchKit provides the incredible iOS developer community with the tools they need to create exciting new experiences right on your wrist," Philip Schiller, Apple's senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing, said in a statement posted on its website.

"With the iOS 8.2 beta SDK, developers can now start using WatchKit to create breakthrough new apps, Glances and actionable notifications designed for the innovative Apple Watch interface and work with new technologies such as Force Touch, Digital Crown and Taptic Engine," he added.

CNN explained that those notifications which appear on the screen and to which users can respond directly are called active notifications while those which just "flash on screen" such as reminders and breaking news are called Glances.

Instagram users can now directly like and comment on photos posted on the photo-sharing app with the Apple Watch as this was already confirmed by its CEO Kevin Systrom.

"Apple Watch allows us to make the Instagram experience even more intimate and in the moment...With actionable notifications you can see and instantly like a photo or react with an emoji. The Instagram news and watch list allows you to see your friends' latest photos, follow new accounts and get a real-time view of your likes and comments." Systom said in the statement.

CNN also cited the move of the American Airlines to flash flight times and other travel updates.

"The American Airlines app on Apple Watch reminds you when it's time to head to the airport via pre-trip notifications, and provides updates for gate changes, connecting gate info upon arrival, and will notify you when boarding begins if you're not at the gate yet...Travelers can also ask 'Where am I?' in-flight and get real-time location information at 30,000 ft.," American Airlines vice president John Gustafson was quoted in the Apple statement.

Apple also suggested that developers can make apps that will allow wearers to use their device for turning the house's lights off. Or they can make apps that will enable users to look at flight or train details.

App makers can also launch a tool that will flash the latest news, sports scores, and even food recipes through Glances.

ESPN executive vice president John Kosner said that due to the high demand for real-time and personal information from sports fans, they are coming up with an app that could deliver scores and sports information for the Watch.

Kosner added that the app will provide snapshots of live games and game-time information.

Apple said the iOS 8.2 SDK beta and the WatchKit are available for iOS Developer Program members at its website. You can view the details here. Developers can make "fully native apps" for the Apple Watch starting next year.

The Apple Watch is expected to be available by next year.