Modular Link Strap for Apple Watch, Latest Apple Patent

Those of us who have a Apple Watch We do not usually complain much about the functions offered by the apple smartwatch, but you read that correctly: not much. Like any other device, and more so when we are just before a first review of it, the Apple watch still lacks things to improve to be the perfect smartwatch, such as adding support for mobile connections without harming its autonomy or a camera with which be able to make video calls. According to the latest patent obtained by those from Cupertino, all this could come in the form of modular link belt.

This week, Apple has been awarded a patent describing a modular accessory system for Apple Watch that distinguishes Electronic components such as batteries, biometric sensors, solar cells and much more, all in a metallic bracelet or strap that, looking at the diagram, would look a lot like the stainless steel link strap that is available from € 509.

Apple patents a modular strap for Apple Watch

Presented as «Functional Modular Link Belt for Wearable Devices«, The patent describes a method by which the apple watch could expand its capabilities after an initial sale, which would extend the useful life of the device. This patent was presented in March 2016 and its benefits are clear: Apple Watch users could "update" our device and add new components without having to spend again everything that a complete Apple Watch is worth. On the other hand, this patent suggests that Tim Cook and company do not intend to renew their watch as much as the iPhone or iPad, but what they prefer is that we can keep our Apple Watch for several years (how nice that would be...).

In the patent, Apple mentions some of the devices that could include in the links of this modular strap, such as the following

• Drums.
• Photovoltaic cells (solar panel).
• Electricity generators.
• Cameras.
• Physical response devices.
• Speakers.
• Screens.
• Solenoid.
• Processor.
• Light sensor.
• Accelerometer
• Speedometer.
• Compass.
• Gyroscope.
• GPS.
• Thermometer.
• Hygrometer (humidity sensor).
• Blood pressure sensor.
• Sweat sensor.
• Magnetic field sensor
• Antenna.
• Vibrator.
• Touch sensor.
• Button.
• A slider.
• Force or pressure sensor.

El system to mount these links It would also be similar to the stainless steel strap that we can buy right now in the Apple Store, that is, It would consist of easy-to-assemble links o easy-on / easy-off. Unsurprisingly, these links could not be used independently, but would have to be constantly connected to an ecosystem. By being connected to each other, energy and communications would be shared between all links.

If doubt, the patent is interesting and would allow, for example, add a GPS to the original Apple Watch or make up for other shortcomings of the Series 2 such as the absence of a 3G / LTE chip or a camera to make video calls. What would you put on your modular link belt?