Multiple designs, 10 or more sensors rumored for Apple iWatch

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Although no one outside of Cupertino really know what Apple might be planning for its first smartwatch product, the rumor mill is heating up with new speculation about what might be packed into the wearable device.

The Wall Street Journal today reported that Apple may be planning "multiple versions" of the so-called iWatch, which is facing increased expectation for a launch this fall, possibly as early as October.

Presumably in conjunction with the new Health app featured in the upcoming iOS 8, sources claim Apple plans to pack "more than 10 sensors" into the gadget, apparently including one already rumored to gather data from the wearer's sweat.

An earlier report yesterday claimed production on the widely anticipated wearable is expected sometime during the next two or three months from Taiwanese manufacturer Quanta Computer, a longtime Apple supplier.

Small device, big hopes

The latest report cites the usual "person familiar with the matter" who claims the iWatch is "likely to come in multiple screen sizes," although exact specifications are still being finalized.

Presumably the large number of sensors are intended to "collect a user's fitness and health data in one spot," with one unnamed component supplier claiming Apple plans to ship 10 to 15 million of the wearable devices by the end of the year.

But first the iPhone maker will have to overcome consumers' lack of interest in such a device, while rivals Samsung, Google and others flounder in an apparent attempt to stay ahead of Apple's rumored smartwatch.

Amid criticism Cupertino is out of ideas, Apple Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook recently teased the company would jump into a new product category this year; the report remarked Apple's previous groundbreaking device was the iPad four years ago.

• Don't forget to read up on the rumored iPhone 6 right here!