Remember that Apple “iRing” rumor that we all thought was crazy? Well, a new patent application confirms Apple really has been working on a new wearable for fingers, which is filled with motion sensors, tiny cameras, a haptic feedback system, and more.
The patent filing, titled “Devices and methods for a ring computing device,” was published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office today, and describes a tiny wearable that could be used to interact with larger devices — such as TVs or desktop computers.
“In many ways, the claims read like an overview of Apple Watch, but distilled into a much smaller form factor,”AppleInsider explains. “The document outlines a number of capabilities currently being marketed as tentpole Apple Watch features like heart rate monitoring and inductive charging.”
The device also includes other technologies not found in Apple Watch, like front- and rear-facing cameras, and sensors that allow for comprehensive motion controls. The ring boasts a touch-sensitive surface, a haptic feedback engine, microphones, and more.
These things could allow wearers to interact with something like a TV from a distance, using gestures, voice controls, and even touch input. It’s much like the new remote that comes with the latest Apple TV, only you wear it on your finger.
Apple also describes how the ring could use communications technologies like Bluetooth, NFC, or Wi-Fi to transfer money between users. For instance, you could tell the ring you wish to pay someone a certain sum, then shake hands with them to initiate the transaction.
If that wasn’t futuristic enough, Apple suggests the ring could be made from a variety of materials with an electrically controlled actuator that would automatically adjust the ring’s size based on the size of the wearer’s finger.
The ring could also be used to interact with other smart devices — such as home automation gadgets or in-car entertainment systems — and for GPS location tracking.
Topeka Capital Markets Brian White told investors back in 2013 that Apple was working on a smart ring that would become a future controller for an Apple TV. We dismissed those claims for the most part — and while it still seems like a crazy idea — this proves Apple is at least investigating it.
Whether or not the Apple Ring ever makes it to market remains to be seen, but I wouldn’t get your hopes up. It seems like many of the features Apple describes would be better suited to a future Apple Watch now.
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