In recent years, Apple has been dedicated to transforming its devices like the iPhone and Apple Watch from mere smart gadgets to medical-grade tools. Since 2019, the Cupertino giant has filed several patents aimed at developing non-invasive health monitoring solutions. The latest of these filings is a patent for a new fabric for wearable devices like the Apple Watch. This innovative band, as described in a newly granted patent, could enable the Watch to monitor blood pressure, blood sugar, and more.

The US Patent and Trademark Office granted this patent to Apple in November 2024. As detailed by Apple Insider, Apple describes the design of a unique fabric-based band that can stretch to fit snugly around a user’s wrist or other body parts. This stretchable band, potentially made of materials such as nylon and spandex, is attached to circuits and sensors capable of monitoring key health metrics, including blood pressure, electrocardiogram (ECG), and respiratory rate.

This new patent is based on an earlier patent from 2019 titled “Fabric-Based Item with Stretchable Band.” At the center of Apple’s patent is a ring-shaped, stretchy fabric band designed to accurately capture health data by fitting securely around a user’s body. The patent describes how this fabric band could incorporate sensor circuits to monitor vital signs. These circuits woven directly into the fabric can include ECG sensors, blood pressure monitors, respiration sensors, and even wireless power-receiving coils, allowing the band to be a self-contained system. Conductive wires within the fabric form these coils, enabling wireless power transmission and reducing the need for frequent charging or battery replacement.

Additionally, the patent explains how the accelerometer within the fabric band could track physical activities, while other sensors could capture data such as respiratory rate, environmental factors, and even gestures or user input on tap. Are.

Interestingly, the patent also suggests that this sensor-rich band can be used in wearables other than the Apple Watch. Potential applications include headbands, armbands, athletic clothing, and even smart undergarments – all capable of relaying important health metrics back to Apple devices. Apple envisions a more interconnected wearable ecosystem, where users can easily monitor their health data across different devices and accessories.

Apple’s patent also addresses common concerns with wearable technology, such as durability and ease of cleaning. Apple notes that fabric-based items may lose accuracy or become difficult to maintain if not carefully designed. To address these issues, the new design includes resilience to high temperatures, allowing items to withstand washing and drying without damage. This makes the band not only functional but also practical for everyday use.