Apple Receives Patent For Modular Wristband Technology

Modularity is a concept that has been very appealing for smartphone makers, although it has received mixed reactions from the market. Nonetheless, Apple has found a new use for modular accessories, in the form of components for the Apple Watch.

Earlier today, Apple was awarded a new patent regarding a modular accessory system for its smartwatch offering. The patent shows how such an Apple Watch modular system could be used to incorporate electrical components like solar cells, biometric sensors, internal batteries and much more.

The Cupertino-based company has been awarded this patent for “modular functional band links for wearable devices” by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Interestingly, such a modular accessory system for future-generation Apple Watch offerings could allow users to update their smartwatch devices months and years after purchase. Hence, this modular accessory system can be effectively used to prolong the platform longevity of the tech giant’s future-generation Apple Watch models.

Source: USPTO

This modular accessory system incorporates working electronic components designed to be attach next to a flexible conductive material. The tech giant has mentioned a host of possible modular components that can be utilized in such an accessory system. These include; batteries, photovoltaic cells, camera sensors, electricity generators, speakers, haptic output devices, and more.

Unfortunately, Apple is yet to reveal when it intends to incorporate such a capable modular accessory system. However, such a patent indicates that the iPhone maker is actively looking to significantly expand the expected health functionality of its future-generation wearable devices, compared to its current Apple Watch models.