RUMOR: Apple working on "smart bands" for Apple Watch

[Rogifan]

From Apple Insider http://forums.appleinsider.com/t/18...dd-new-health-tracking-functions#post_2764390

Citing unnamed sources, Czech website <em>Letem Svetem Applem</em> reported <a href="http://www.letemsvetemapplem.eu/2015/08/21/apple-watch-hodinky/">on Friday</a> that Apple is planning to announce new bands that will connect to the hidden data port on the Apple Watch and add new functionality to the wrist-worn device. Specifically, it was said that bands will add blood oxygen, respiratory rate, blood pressure, and body temperature sensors.

It was said that these sensors must be in the band anyhow and cannot be a part of the watch to give accurate readings. For example, a body temperature sensor would be affected by heat from the components inside the watch, and must be placed on the opposite end of the wrist.

The sources allegedly said that Apple is planning to launch its first sensor bands for the Apple Watch in early 2016. The company is said to be working on multiple smart bands that will be available in a variety of styles and configurations.

Apple is said to be cognizant of the fact that many consumers could be unlikely to purchase new watches every year. Smart band upgrades are allegedly the company's plan to continue hardware sales for legacy watches.

I so hope this is true! I always had a feeling that diagnostics port was for more than diagnostics. Also over the last 3 years or so Apple has hired a number of people from the medical and medical devices field. These people were hired for a reason and it certainly goes beyond heart rate measurement.

 

[JayLenochiniMac]

I don't think it's a new rumor.

 

[Rogifan]

I don't think it's a new rumor.

When have we heard this before? Specifically new bands coming next year?

 

[richpjr]

I don't care if it is a new or an old rumor - being able to add new functionality with a new band instead of requiring an entirely new watch is very cool.

 

[Rogifan]

I don't care if it is a new or an old rumor - being able to add new functionality with a new band instead of requiring an entirely new watch is very cool.

I think so too which is why I hope it's true. I wonder if GPS could be added via a band.

 

[JayLenochiniMac]

When have we heard this before? Specifically new bands coming next year?

Back in March, although it did say it wouldn't be included with the first AW version.

http://techcrunch.com/2015/03/05/would-you-buy-a-smart-band-for-an-apple-watch/

 

[OllyW]

Please continue in the Questionable Rumor Points Towards Upcoming 'Smart Bands' For Apple Watch thread.