Here's why there is no native browser on the Apple Watch

Apple didn't stuff a native browser into the Apple Watch. But iOS jailbreaker Comex was able to hack a browser onto the timepiece which he used to get to the Google web site. Watch OS 1.0 is a version of iOS 8.2 with a front-end tweak for the wearable. This probably helped Comex with his hack since much of what he needed to add the browser to the device was already available to him.

Using a browser on the Apple Watch would require too much scrolling to make it a positive experience for Apple Watch users. While apps can currently run on the Apple Watch thanks to its pairing with the Apple iPhone, stand alone apps are expected to be available for the timepiece later this year.

Since the Apple Watch does need to be paired with an iPhone, if you need a browser your best bet is to slip your iPhone out of your pocket and put mobile Safari to work. The next Apple Watch is rumored to be a stand alone model and perhaps Apple will have something up its sleeve (like a larger screen) to allow a smooth browsing experience for that watch. The stand alone Samsung Gear S employs a special version of Opera Mini on that Tizen powered timepiece.

A video showing the hack has been disabled, but we do have some pictures that you can view by clicking on the slideshow below.


source: MobyPicture/Comex via 9to5Mac, Gizmodo