Apple(US:AAPL) 3 6 Ke·2025-10-09 10:14Core Insights - Apple has introduced its first 5G smartwatches, the Apple Watch Series 11 and Apple Watch Ultra 3, utilizing 5G RedCap technology, which is expected to promote the adoption of RedCap across the industry [1][2] - The adoption of RedCap by Apple, a leading manufacturer, signifies a strong endorsement for the technology, although broader industry support is necessary for widespread implementation [1][10] Group 1: Apple's Commitment to RedCap - Apple is not the first to adopt RedCap in wearable devices but is among the most proactive major manufacturers, indicating confidence in RedCap's future [3][5] - As of August 2025, only 34 operators in 24 countries are investing in RedCap, representing just 0.5% of the global market, highlighting the limited current infrastructure [5][6] - Apple's decision to implement RedCap in its smartwatches demonstrates a commitment to the technology despite the current limitations in network infrastructure [5][6] Group 2: Impact on Industry Standards - The introduction of RedCap in Apple's smartwatches aligns with the 3GPP's vision for wearable devices, fulfilling commitments made during the standard's development [6][10] - RedCap is designed for specific applications, including industrial sensors, smart city monitoring, and wearables, with defined performance metrics [6][10] Group 3: Market Dynamics and Growth Potential - In Q2 2025, Apple Watch shipments reached 7.4 million units, a 28.8% year-on-year increase, while the global smartwatch market grew by 8% [8] - Despite a decline in Apple's overall shipment volume, the brand remains influential in the wearable market, potentially encouraging other manufacturers to adopt RedCap technology [9][10] - The global smartwatch market has surpassed 100 million units annually, with a significant portion featuring cellular IoT capabilities, which could facilitate RedCap's broader application [9][10] Group 4: Future Directions for RedCap - The successful application of RedCap requires overcoming barriers across various industries, with a focus on 5G native applications and private networks [10][13] - The integration of RedCap in sectors like smart connected vehicles and AI applications is seen as a promising avenue for growth [14][10] - The collaboration across industries is essential for the proliferation of RedCap, as its success is not solely dependent on consumer products but requires a collective effort [14][10]