Re: Is this really going to affect many people?
As a long-time Apple user ( Servers and heavy-llifting workstations - before I am accused of being a fanboi, only interested in shiny shiny...) and a full-time Pebble wearer for well over a year, I can say I am one of those people.
But, my concern is that Apple is going a little... How shall I put this ... Microsoft? with its 'not invented here' & ' protect the cashflow! ' mindset.
I love my Pebble, and find it to be the most useful piece of tech I have purchased in the past 3-4 years. I was an early adopter, and have got used to the being on smartwatches/wearables bleeding edge. However, and Apple take note , a watch is a highly personal thing- much more so than a phone. I identify with it far more than my iPhone now - which realisation really surprised me when I realised that Apple are slowly strangling Pebble support.
I will get a AppleWatch, but it does not offer the things I value in my Pebble. It has a whole different set of compromises and advantages. But for the first time in 25 years I am seriously thinking of stepping away from Apple's beautifully manicured walled garden - I will no longer be an advocate for the brand and its values.
'Tis a sad, sad, day for me, but I doubt if Apple need to care anymore
Biting the hand that feeds IT
