Patent From Apple Reveals Smart Bands are the FUTURE!

Apple has been working on several new patents related to the Apple Watch, which could bring some exciting new features to the next generation of this wearable device.

A?"laser-based rotating sensor for the digital crown"(1) is described in one of the patents and could provide improved rotational accuracy. With the help of this technology, engaging with the Apple Watch might be more precise and responsive, as well as simpler and more user-friendly.

Another patent is for micro-LED displays, which could provide improved brightness and color accuracy, as well as better power efficiency. This could lead to longer battery life and a better overall viewing experience.

Apple is reportedly developing Apple Watch?bands with NFC modules, which would allow users to perform contactless transactions without having to use their iPhones. The reason for this move may be to reduce the size of the Apple Watch by moving some of its features to the band, while also offering users more flexibility and customization options for their devices. However, it is not clear yet whether Apple's NFC bands will be compatible with third-party bands or if users will need to buy Apple's bands to access NFC capabilities. A big reason to why they would shift the Apple Watch antennas to the band could be to improve cellular reception as well.

In addition, Apple's patents include a "fabric watch band with an electrochromic feature"(2) (kind of how the?BMW iX Flow changes colors) that allows users to set three colors in three band zones.?Science Direct?states, "Electro-chromism is a reversible color change in a material caused by an applied electric field or current. Ion insertion materials, which are mixed conductors (i.e. both electronic and ionic), into which ions can be rapidly and reversibly inserted, can be used as electrochromic materials." For example, one zone could be set to a red color while another zone could be set to green or blue. The electrochromic material used in the band would be capable of changing colors based on user input and could be controlled through the Apple Watch or a separate app. This could allow for greater customization and personalization of the Apple Watch, as users could choose colors that match their outfits or mood.?

Other patents include a?"smart metal and fabric health and communications band"(3), an adjustable fit system for casual and sports use, and a?band with embedded batteries?to power more features and extend battery life. The embedded batteries in the band could power additional features that require more energy, such as an always-on display or increased cellular connectivity that would give users better flexibility in how they use their devices and could help the Apple Watch compete with other wearable devices on the market with long-lasting battery life performance.

While it's unclear which of these features will make it to the next Apple Watch, it's exciting to see the company innovating and researching new possibilities for this prominent wearable device.

(1)?Purcher, Jack. “Apple Invents a New Laser-Based Rotation Sensor for the Apple Watch Digital Crown for Greater Rotational Accuracy & More.” Patentlyapple, Jack Purcher, 21 Jan. 2023, https://www.patentlyapple.com/2023/01/apple-invents-a-new-laser-based-rotation-sensor-for-the-apple-watch-digital-crown-for-greater-rotational-accuracy-more.html. Accessed 13 Apr. 2023.?

(2) Purcher, Jack. “https://www.patentlyapple.com/2023/02/apple-invents-a-fabric-apple-watch-band-with-an-electrochromic-feature-that-allows-users-to-set-3-colors-in-3-band-zones.html”?Patently Apple, Jack?Purcher, 21 Jan. 2023,?https://www.patentlyapple.com/2023/04/apple-patent-reveals-smart-bands-that-could-detect-hand-gestures-and-electromyography-emg-via-embedded-electrodes.html.??

(3) Purcher, Jack. “A New Smart Fabric Patent from Apple Reveals How Health Sensors Could Be Integrated into a Future Apple Watch Band & More.”?Patently Apple, Jack?Purcher, 2 Mar. 2023,?https://www.patentlyapple.com/2023/03/a-new-smart-fabric-patent-from-apple-reveals-how-health-sensors-could-be-integrated-into-a-future-apple-watch-band-more.html.