Apple Watch to be available from Best Buy next month

Apple has not revealed an official sales figure for Apple Watch, but, according to a Canalys report, it leads the smartwatch pack, with sales estimated to be around 4.2 million units. And we are talking about sales exclusively through Apple's own online and brick and mortar stores, which is a different strategy to iPhones and iPads.

Staring next month, however, Apple Watch will no longer be confined to Apple's own locations, as the smartwatch will also be available for purchase at US retailer Best Buy. Will this boost sales?

Best Buy will become the first retailer in the US to carry Apple Watch, on August 7, and this is likely to attract more consumers to its brick and mortar stores. The smartwatch will be available at more than 100 locations, as well as online, with retail availability to grow to 200 locations in time for the holidays.

Best Buy says that 16 Apple Watch models will be available through its stores, including the entry-level Sport and the mid-range Watch models. The retail will also sell nearly 50 accessories for the device, including bands, display shields, chargers and more. Apple Watch will be offered in both 38 mm and 42 mm sizes.

Best Buy makes no mention of Apple Watch Edition, which is the most expensive version of the smartwatch, starting at $10,000 for the 38 mm model and $12,000 for the 42 mm counterpart. The Edition line is likely to remain exclusive to Apple stores.

There is also no word on pricing for Apple Watch. However, it is likely that it will match Apple's pricing, which has the "entry-level" Apple Watch, in Sport trim and 38 mm size, at $349, with the 42 mm version going for $399. The Watch edition kicks off at $549 and $599, respectively.

Photo Credit: Wayne Williams