Images of an Apple Watch prototype in a special security case have surfaced, with pre-watchOS development software and a “Lisa Tester” app showing what the finished springboard would look like.
Apple tends to build prototype devices and disguise them in bulky cases so testers can use them without pulling unwanted eyes. The test units are normally destroyed by Apple, but one apparently survived and images were shared of the prototype using internal software.
The prototype in the images does not have a Digital Crown and uses internal testing software that existed before the watchOS. 9to5Mac first reported the images, which were shared by Twitter user @AppleDemoYT.
Prototype Apple Watch with Security Case has an internal Pre-WatchOS 1.0 build, complete with internal testing programs and development settings. It is extremely surprising that such a thing could still exist; without being destroyed. #appleinwendig pic.twitter.com/WDTWP0NpIp
– Apple Demo (@AppleDemoYT) 27 December 2020
One image shows a warning that the device has not been approved by the FCC and that it may not be sold. Some of the software is similar to the final watchOS 1.0 UI, but one app that stands out is an image of Lisa Simpson, a reference to the Apple Lisa Computer and an app used to test springboard and other features.
Leaks from Apple’s internal testing team rarely occur, as they are held under lock, key and non-disclosure agreements. Another recent leak showed Apple’s iPhone assembly line of 2007, which showed the quality assurance test on the new devices.