Apple patents smart watch band with wrist biometric sensors

The next Apple Watch may come with wrist biometric sensors, after the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office awarded Apple 62 patents, three of them for Apple Watch, Patently Apple notes.

One granted patent is called “Biometric Sensor for Acquiring Skin Texture Pattern Images,” and it looks into skin and hair texture authentication for easier unlocking. Located on the inside of the band, the biometric IR thermal image sensor would speed up personal identification and verification based on a person’s unique skin texture pattern, according to the patent.

The wristband would have an integrated “IR thermal image sensor that will provide improved accuracy skin texture pattern acquisition through hair,” reports Patently Apple.

Apple was awarded patent number 10,398,370 for this technology.

Another patent, titled “Indicators for Apple Watch Band” and with patent number 10,401,800, discusses an illumination system that indicates progress during physical activities, as well as monitor heartrate and steps to give insights into potential hidden illnesses.

A third patent is “Apple Watch Band with Dynamic Fit Adjustment.” It covers a customized, self-tightening band with a biometric reading that monitors the pulse, designed with dynamic fit adjustment for sports enthusiasts. For this technology Apple was awarded patent number 10,398,200.

The new Apple Watch with in-built biometrics might be showcased at the next product event on Sep 10, yet Apple has not stated when the new technology is expected to reach the shelves or if it is even going to be included in the product.

In July, Apple filed a patent for facial tracking and biometric authentication with AR headset and in August, it was granted 54 patents, one related to advanced facial recognition system for the iMac.

Article Topics

Apple Watch  |  biometric sensors  |  biometrics  |  identity verification  |  patents  |  wearables