First glimpse of Apple iTime smartwatch platform given by patent

A tantalising glance of Apple's first model of smartwatch has been given through the publication of a patent granted to the company.

Patent number 8,787,006 was issued on 22 July 2014 and describes the platform, components and points towards some of its technical functions. The smartwatch is due to be launched commercially later in 2014.

Technical specifications
The capacities for a smartphone-tethered wristband laid out in the patent will be familiar to existing smartwatch or fitness band users. These include sensors for movement and other biological functions, haptic feedback and a screen.

Connection to an Apple iOS operating system smartphone or tablet will be via Bluetooth, NFC or Wi-Fi modules.

iTime
One interesting revelation has been the name of the smartwatch, long dubbed the 'iWatch' in the technology press. One of the graphics accompanying the patent has an alternative name 'iTime' written on the centre of the wristband's screen.

Standout functions
Whatever the name, Apple is likely to follow its existing strategy and price the iTime towards the premium end of the market around $300-$350 (€224-€260),

To justify this and achieve the prestigious sales some pundits are predicting it will have to offer some unique standout features above those of a standard smartwatch.

Given its design pedigree the iTime is likely to constitute a step up in the smartwatch market. Though whether its extra features will be enough to convert large numbers of loyal iPhone owners into users of wearables and prove truly disruptive remains to be seen.