Upcoming Apple Watch Models Might Incorporate Sensors Directly into the Band Accessories
Upcoming Apple Watch Models Might Incorporate Sensors Directly into the Band Accessories
Apple has uncovered a potential way to enhance the intelligence of its Watch further by incorporating sensors into the band and the dial. A recent news piece reveals that Apple was awarded 38 patents on November 5, 2024, by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for a "smart health and communications band for Apple Watch and a future headset."
The patent outlines a flexible fabric accessory with a slot to accommodate a certain body area. This band could incorporate electronic circuitry capable of tracking various health metrics, such as "electrocardiogram readings, blood pressure readings, or respiration rate readings."
The more intriguing aspect is that this band isn't limited to being a wristband. It could encompass any wearable featuring elastic fabric, like a "headband, hat, undergarment, shirt, pants, shorts, yoga clothing, athletic attire, arm band, elastic belt, sock, glove," and so forth. However, the patent primarily focuses on wristbands and headbands. Consequently, while there's a possibility of Apple launching entirely new wearables with health sensors incorporated, it's more probable that either the Apple Watch will evolve or the Apple Vision Pro will gain additional health monitoring capabilities.
The patent also proposes additional functions for the smart band (according to TechRadar). It suggests that the electrical conduits embedded in the fabric could be engineered to recharge wirelessly and communicate wirelessly with external electronic devices. This hints at its ability to connect with other Apple devices (MacBook, iPhone, AirPods). Given Apple's emphasis on ecosystem integration, it only seems logical that "external electronic devices" would refer to its own products.
Apple isn't a stranger to filing patents for smart textiles. Just last month, it applied for a "touch-sensitive smart fabric", and before that, in 2022 and 2019. If Apple's plans materialize, we'll have to wait and see how successful they turn out to be. Considering the massive failure of the Apple Vision Pro, it's understandable why Apple is trying to revive it. I'm curious to see how the new health features will impact the price, given its already high cost.
As for the Apple Watch, given its status as one of the company's successful offerings, I wonder if integrating additional sensors will feel excessive. The recent "AI infusion" into every product released this year has demonstrated that too much of a good thing isn't always well-received.
In the future, this 'smart health and communications band' could potentially expand beyond Apple Watch, potentially integrating with various wearable tech like headbands or athletic attire. As Apple's patent suggests, this tech-infused band could wirelessly recharge and communicate with other Apple devices, such as MacBooks, iPhones, or AirPods.