Interview with iPod iWatch Inventor, Peter Burns

Peter Burns is one of those people we can safely call geniuses. As a talented designer of the super-cool iPod iWatch concept, he is still waiting for his invention to go into production. We really liked his iPod wrist watch concept, so we decided to contact him and ask him to update us how things are going.

iWatch was originally conceived as an iPod with 10GB memory capacity and Bluetooth-enabled earphones.

The Mac community has been lobbying for this design to go into production for over 2 years now, but unfortunately Apple hasn’t paid attention.  As any great inventor, Peter has already come up with another great idea!

Palluxo!Peter, so how did you come up with the  idea for the design of the iPod wristwatch?

Peter:It’s a concept that was developed while I was at university. The main feature of the watch was the wireless bluetooth headphones. While jogging I hate using the standard ipod headphones, also I thought there must be a better way to strap on/hold your iPod.  The project then developed focusing on the headphones. We were investigating Reverse Engineering methods to ensure a ’shug fit’ in in the ear. To be honest the actual styling of the watch was straight forward - I just had to ensure the watch tied in with the Apple ethos.

Palluxo! Has Apple ever contacted you regarding this invention?

Peter: Apple as a company have never contacted me regarding this concept. To be honest, I feel the concept itself may be too simple or straight forward for Apple.

Palluxo! Have other companies inquired about your invention? 

Peter: When I first posted this watch on my coroflot portfolio site I was astonished by the number of hits I was getting. Lots of companies were contacting me to look to developt he concept (but obviously not Apple!). 

Palluxo! Have you followed up with them?

Peter: I followed up the enquiries but unfortunately they came to nothing - mainly due to lack of funding! Please feel free to contact me if you’re interested in developing this concept!

Palluxo!:Doesn’t Jonathan Ives who designed the iMac and the iPod, and many more of Apple’s most iconic products, also have connections to your university?

Peter:Jonathan Ives graduated from the same University as me (Northumbria at Newcastle, UK).

Palluxo!: … And have you ever met him?

Peter:A few years ago I attended an evening with Ives - night organised by the university. I can honestly say his ambition, dedication and attitude towards design, and more so towards Apple was inspirational. 

Palluxo! So Peter, what’s next? Have you been planning to come up with a new invention?

Peter:I am now a product designer for a famous bags, accessories and luggage company. We’ve been looking to incorporate the functions of the iPod / iPhone into a backpack or messenger bag. I’ll keep you updated on these developments! 

Palluxo!:Thank you Peter. We wish you all the best, and will be more than glad to do another interview with you.