The most interesting thing about this band isn’t what Apple added; it’s what it removed, and I think many Apple Watch owners might be ready for fewer wrist notifications. We have too many screens and notifications barraging us from all angles. Yes, you can turn off notifications when you work out.
There is something nice about not being notified while you work out, but on the flip side, some people want to know their vitals and pace. It’s a personal preference, I guess. I like seeing the information. If this screenless device could be paired with Bluetooth earbuds and announce splits or heart rate to your earbuds, that would go a long way.
Even if Apple doesn’t launch this device (which they probably could), other copycats or alternatives will be available. It’s not a new space; Apple would just validate it if they launched something.