Images of a prototype Apple Watch have appeared inside a special security case, which shows pre-watchOS development software and a “Lisa Tester” application that shows what the finished trampoline would look like.
Apple tends to build prototypes of devices and disguise them in bulky cases to let testers use them without drawing unwanted eyes. The test units are usually destroyed by Apple, but apparently it has survived and images of the prototype running internal software have been shared.
The image prototype does not have a digital crown and runs an internal testing program that previously existed on watchOS. 9to5Mac first reported the images, which were shared by Twitter user @AppleDemoYT.
The Apple Watch prototype with Security Case runs an internal version of Pre-WatchOS 1.0, with internal testing applications and development settings. It is extremely surprising that something like this could exist; without having been destroyed. #appleinternal pic.twitter.com/WDTWP0NpIp
– Apple Demo (@AppleDemoYT) December 27, 2020
An image shows a warning that the device has not been approved by the FCC and cannot be sold. Some of the programs are similar to the final UI of watchOS 1.0, but one app that stands out is the image of Lisa Simpson, a reference to the Apple Lisa computer, and an app used to test the trampoline and other features.
Leaks of Apple’s internal testing team rarely occur, as they are subject to closure, key, and non-disclosure agreements. Another recent leak showed the assembly line of the 2007 Apple iPhone, which showed some of the quality assurance tests performed on the new devices.