Surpassing Expectations: The Apple Watch’s Unanticipated Sensor Breakthrough

The anticipation for the release of the new Apple Watches this September is high. We expect to see, in addition to the iPhone 15, the new Apple Watch Series 9 and also an Apple Watch Ultra 2. These watches are very capable and come with a wide variety of sensors to monitor our health, exercise, sleep, etc.

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But sensors aren’t just used for that. A recent patent granted to Apple (via AppleInsider) suggests that the Cupertino company could be working on a truly unique feature for the Apple Watch: a color sampling sensor.

Let’s see, what color should we go with today?

Apparently, Apple has been granted a patent titled “Electronic Devices with Color Sampling Sensors.” The text of the patent describes how certain light sensors located under the screen of the Apple Watch could measure the color of external objects. The purpose is essentially to allow the watch face to adapt and match the color of the user’s clothing or strap, thereby providing a consistent and personalized appearance.

The process is described as follows: an optical sensor, which could be a camera, a proximity sensor, an ambient light sensor, among others, would emit a sequence of red, green, and blue light towards an external object. It would then measure the RGB reflectance levels of this object. Through specific algorithms, the watch would be able to identify and adapt colors to match those of the strap and clothing we are wearing.

Will it arrive in this year’s watches? Probably not. There’s a significant amount of work from concept to a finished product. Moreover, it’s important to remember that not all of Apple’s patented projects make it to the market.

That said, this patent gives a hint about the direction Apple might be considering for the future of its iconic smartwatch. Beyond being a health and fitness device, the company seems to be revisiting back to the launch of the original Apple Watch and exploring ways to make it an even more personalized and fashion-coordinated piece, aligned with each individual’s style.

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While it’s still uncertain when or if this color sampling technology will come to fruition—or to our clothing—what is clear is that as we await the blood pressure sensor, Apple continues to explore ways to make future Apple Watches even more surprising.

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