Apple Watch 2 Release Date and Rumors: Patent Indicates Apple Can Make Cooler Gesture-Controlled Watch 2

By Peter R - 05 Apr '16 06:59AM

Apple's next version of Watch could be cool beyond imagination, suggests a mewly discovered patent.

The patent discussed various means of enabling Watch to function through gestures including waving, raising hand and even pointing the pinky! The patent describes a long list of gestures and the possible functions associated with those gestures.

"While voice and touch input can be an effective way to control a device, there may be situations where the user's ability to speak the verbal command or perform the touch gesture may be limited," the patent reads.

To function with gesture inputs, the device should be equipped with a slew of sensors including optical, mechanical and electric, the patent states. Such complexity could certainly bring more users to wearable devices which are yet to gain ground. However, being the market leader Apple stands poised to break new ground with such features.

Besides providing a cool way of device interaction, a wearable device working on gesture inputs can come handy for users of sign language.

In another recently discovered patent, Apple detailed smart modular bands. The bands allow addition of components that would enhance functioning of Watch. These modules can include sensors, speakers, camera, additional battery power and a SIM card. The band would help Apple improve its older Watch editions, though it may risk sales of new releases.

During its March event, Apple announced a price cut on Watch and new band color options. While expectations of announcement of a new Watch edition during the iPhone SE event last month were low, speculation is rife that Apple may introduce Watch 2 during this fall. Inclusion of a modular band or gesture-controlled device would go a long way in helping adoption of wearable devices.

Apple Watch has received mixed reactions since its launch almost a year ago. While Cupertino giant has not revealed sales figures, analysts estimate it could be anywhere between 5 and 7 million pieces.