Apple tries to keep everything close to the vest. There are usually leaks of photos, diagrams, and unsubstantiated rumors swirling around the “next big innovation” from the company, but until they stage one of their big reveals nothing is known for certain. Here’s the latest buzz on what’s next for Apple.
Obviously, Apple has been waiting to enter the wearable technology market until they evaluated how other devices were received. They have waited and evaluated public perception, mostly the shortcomings of the devices and questionable usefulness and accuracy. That’s why the recent patent for “Wrist-Worn Electronic Device” has started a new cycle of rumors.
While this may or may not be in development, the patent shows that Apple’s plans include sensors and features built into the band, allowing additional circuitry and functionality. The electronics in the wristband, as indicated by one of the drawings in the patent, could hold the components for computer networking, allowing the wearer to connect and possibly use other devices such as laptops, desktops, and mobile phones. This is referred to as “the personal wireless environment.”
The patent includes several incarnations of the invention. In at least one embodiment, the watch includes a touchscreen display for a device with unnamed native functions. A portable media player integration is also mentioned. In addition, a GPS, accelerometer, and wireless communication transceiver are presented. There is mention of the possibility of removing the actual device from the band for other integrated uses.
Amazingly, one version includes the possibility of an audio jack that, when used with earphones and microphone, would enable it to be used as a mobile phone. Bluetooth antennae is also referenced as a band enhancement. Notifications from a mobile phone could be integrated, including notices of incoming calls, social networking posts, or news feeds. The user could then decide whether or not to check the cell phone for this information. A vibration option could be included as a non-audible alert for the user. The accelerometer may be a method for a user to use gestures to employ an action such as declining a cell phone call.
There are so many potential features included in the patent, Apple is clearly keeping its options open. It is also keeping competitors—and the public—unsure of what to expect. Just as with every big reveal, Apple will keep all of its options open until it settles on what will be the best of the best.
The only thing that is certain is that, if Apple moves forward with this wearable technology, it will be innovative and unlike any other device currently on the market. The functionality will surpass any and all competitors and will hold surprises for a big reveal. It’s also certain that the price tag will be quite high. Apple fans will stand in line for it, but the public may or may not be ready to shell out big bucks for this device. It will likely depend on exactly what it can do, and whether it holds real value to the consumer.