The company’s new patent is dedicated to the technology of making flexible material for creating straps for the Apple Watch. In addition to the decorative function, it will also take on the role of a gadget control interface due to pressure sensitivity and various gestures.

Smart fabric can be used for many devices and items, including sleeves, pockets, and other pieces of clothing or accessories. However, in its patent, Apple emphasizes the possibility of creating a smartwatch bracelet with recognition of touch commands. Examples include features such as adjusting the volume of AirPods, as well as turning on silent or do not disturb mode for smartphones.

Gesture recognition is planned to be implemented using conductive threads, the resistance of which changes when you press the tissue surface. Having determined which conductors have been used, the built-in bracelet chip will transmit a control signal to the connected device. The company does not indicate the method of synchronization – it is possible that communication will be carried out via Bluetooth.

Gestures may include moving a finger across the surface of a textile. The document also mentions the ability to detect and measure tissue touch force, which can be used to interpret additional user commands. As in the case of other patents of the brand, the date of the possible appearance of the commercial version of the accessory is unknown.