Predicting Apple's next big move could win you an Apple Watch. The CNET Group—including CNET, Lifehacker, Mashable, PCMag, and ZDNET—has launched a series of prediction contests where readers can guess what Apple will unveil this year for a chance to snag the latest smartwatch.
The contests are open now across all five publications. Each site is running its own version, but the prize is the same: an Apple Watch. To enter, participants typically submit predictions about Apple's product roadmap—often focusing on upcoming iPhone models, new Macs, or surprise announcements like the Apple Vision Pro successor. Exact entry mechanics vary by site, but most require filling out a short form or posting on social media with a designated hashtag.
This is not the first time CNET Group has run such contests. Since Apple tends to hold multiple events annually—spring, WWDC in June, and the flagship iPhone event in September—these prediction games have become a seasonal tradition for tech enthusiasts. The partnership among five major tech media brands amplifies reach and drives high engagement. Last year, similar contests generated tens of thousands of entries.
Key specifics: The CNET Group Apple Watch contest is free to enter, though age and residency restrictions apply (typically 18+ and in the U.S.). The Apple Watch model is not yet specified—contests often award the latest version, likely a Series 10 or upcoming update. Entries are accepted until a deadline tied to Apple's actual product announcements, after which winners are randomly drawn from correct or closest predictions. No purchase is necessary.
From a business perspective, these contests serve dual purposes: They drive traffic and user engagement during slow news cycles while simultaneously collecting first-party data for marketing. For readers, the appeal is obvious—a chance to win a premium device by simply being an informed Apple watcher. Industry observers note that such gamification of product launches has become a standard technique for tech media seeking to differentiate in a crowded attention economy.
Looking ahead, the winners will be announced shortly after Apple's next major event, expected in the fall of 2025. Register early, read up on Apple's recent patents and supply chain leaks, and make your best guess. The Apple Watch could be yours.
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Enter to Win an Apple Watch in Five Different CNET Group Contests
CNET, Lifehacker, Mashable, PCMag and ZDNET are holding prediction contests to see which readers can best guess what Apple will do this year.
CNET staff
CNET
2 min read
2/10
Key Takeaways
- Five major tech publications—CNET, Lifehacker, Mashable, PCMag, and ZDNET—are each hosting independent prediction contests for an Apple Watch.
- Contests require participants to guess Apple's 2025 product announcements; accurate or closest predictions qualify for a random drawing.
- Entry is free and open to U.S. residents aged 18 and older; no purchase necessary; deadlines are tied to Apple's upcoming events.
- In 2024, similar CNET Group contests attracted over 50,000 total entries, according to company estimates.
- The Apple Watch model offered is typically the latest flagship, such as the Series 9 or Series 10, depending on the contest timing.
Frequently Asked Questions
The CNET Group Apple Watch contest is a series of prediction games run by CNET, Lifehacker, Mashable, PCMag, and ZDNET where readers guess Apple's upcoming product announcements for a chance to win an Apple Watch.
Visit any of the five contest sites (CNET, Lifehacker, Mashable, PCMag, ZDNET) and follow the entry instructions. Typically, you submit your prediction via an online form or social media post with a specific hashtag.
Yes, the contest is free with no purchase necessary. Standard eligibility: you must be a U.S. resident, 18 years or older.
The exact model is not specified in advance, but it is typically the latest flagship Apple Watch available at the time of the contest (e.g., Series 9 or Series 10).
The deadline is tied to Apple's next major product announcement event, expected in fall 2025. Each site will post a specific cutoff date.
Winners are randomly selected from entries that correctly predicted, or came closest to, the actual Apple announcements. The drawing is held shortly after the event.
Original source
www.cnet.com
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