Apple Watch Series 12: Bands with sensors for the first time?
So far, Apple's smartwatch bands contain no additional technology. A leaker claims that this will change soon.
Woman with an Apple Watch: So far, the band is completely analog.
(Image: mpohodzhay / Shutterstock.com)
The idea of using Apple Watch bands for additional functions is not new: Apple already received a patent for integrated sensors in 2017 – and third-party manufacturers already offer such devices. Now the rumor is resurfacing in connection with the next Apple Watch generation: The well-known leaker Kosutami, a specialist in Apple prototypes, now claims that the implementation will already happen with the Series 12 expected in the fall. According to the information, however, this will initially only be the case with silicone bands; Apple has not yet determined how sensors would fit into “other materials”.
Hints already existed years ago
Kosutami did not provide any information about what the sensor(s) in the Apple Watch band would be able to do in his X post. The potential advantage would be that Apple could measure from both wrists – and also capture measurements for which there is no longer space for the sensor technology in the Apple Watch itself. The 2017 patent application states that the sensor band could be multi-part and, for example, additionally contain thermometers, accelerometers, or a blood pressure monitor.
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The Apple Watch already measures these values, but only acceleration (at least internally) with precise measurements. For temperature and blood pressure, the company only indicates deviations from normal values, thus being able to warn, for example, that one is getting sick or showing indications of high blood pressure over a period of several weeks. The patent application also mentions components such as an additional GPS module, an extra battery, or a speaker.
Waiting for a Watch Redesign
Apple does not have to implement patents; they often contain various application examples to legally cover as many scenarios as possible. The 2017 patent is also not the only band protection entry from the Apple Watch manufacturer: In 2019, Apple registered an authentication method via skin texture and in 2021 a water balance sensor in a band (including electrolyte concentration).
It remains unclear how much truth there is to the rumor. Kosutami has not always been right in the past. So far, the Apple scene expects only minor innovations from the Series 12. A redesign is reportedly planned for later.
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