Apple is known for constantly researching and developing new technologies and accessories for its products, and the Apple Watch is no exception. Earlier this year, a patent revealed the ability to change the color of the Apple Watch strap. Now, the US Patent and Trademark Office has granted Apple a patent for an Apple Watch strap with a built-in NFC module. This can lead to many applications that are both useful and controversial. Details are here…
First discovered by Patently Apple, the patent describes an Apple Watch strap with a built-in NFC chip that communicates with the Apple Watch’s internal NFC chip. This link allows the Apple Watch to identify the connected bracelet and use this information for various purposes.
Some of the potential applications of this technology include dynamically changing the user interface depending on the connected band. WatchOS can change watch faces or adapt the design of the existing watch face to better match the color of the new band. Additionally, Apple Watch can switch between different apps, such as the workout app, when a particular band is connected.
The patent also suggests that the technology could be used to control unauthorized third-party Apple Watch straps. The patent states that if an unauthorized range is detected, a warning can be issued or some features can be disabled or changed. In addition, certain bands can be associated with certain apps or services on Apple Watch and enable or access features associated with those apps or services.
The patent goes on to describe a system where Apple Watch straps could contain the NFC chip as well as other components such as environmental sensors, biometric sensors, motion sensors or inertial sensors. This expands the range of potential features for the Apple Watch and the accessory ecosystem. It is important to note that just because a technology is patented does not guarantee its implementation in a real product. Apple has been known to patent various ideas, and not all of them come true.
While NFC-enabled Apple Watch straps may offer interesting new features and customization options, there’s also a chance the technology could be used to battle third-party accessory manufacturers. This is a concern among users who appreciate more affordable alternatives to official Apple bands. As with any technology, the ultimate impact will depend on how Apple chooses to implement it.
Source: Port Altele
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