Apple Watch gains (PRODUCT)RED Sport Loop band

By Roger Fingas

Apple on Wednesday quietly released a (PRODUCT)RED color option for the Apple Watch Sport Loop, part of the proceeds from which will go to the Global Fund's efforts to combat HIV/AIDS.

The new Sport Loop is available in 40- and 44-millimeter sizes, though these should also fit 38- and 42-millimeter Watches respectively. The accessory costs $49 in either format.

The only other (PRODUCT)RED Watch bands include versions of the Sport Band and the Modern Buckle.

Apple has sometimes been criticized for keeping the RED brand out of products that would make a meaningful contribution to the charity. Most of its RED-linked products are low-cost items like iPhone and iPad cases, the exception being the iPhone XR, which is priced anywhere between $749 and $899.

In 2017 the company responded with RED versions of the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus, followed by equivalents for the iPhone 8 and 8 Plus earlier this year. Unlike the XR, however, those options shipped well after other colors.