An Apple patent application published today reveals an idea for an interesting variation on the magnetically-closed Milanese Loop band that allows it to do much more than simply secure the Apple Watch on your wrist.
By using a careful arrangement of magnet orientations, the band can transform itself into a protective case when travelling, a stand on a bedside table or desk – or a Mac accessory …
In the standard band configuration, the band would be held closed in a similar way to the Milanese Loop. But it would also be possible to roll the band to form an upright desk stand, or to wrap the band around the Watch itself to serve as a kind of protective case for use when the Watch is packed away.
Finally, it could also be magnetically attached to other devices, the patent illustrating it attached to a MacBook, an iMac and a fridge.
As Macs are aluminum, a magnet would not normally stick to it, so the Mac attachment concept would also need matching magnets or a ferrous metal plate in the Mac to make it work.
As always with Apple patent applications, there’s no way to know whether Apple has serious plans to make such a band or is simply exploring an interesting idea.
Would this type of multi-function band appeal to you? Take our poll to let us know.
Via Patently Apple
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Creative people there at Apple, Inc. Though it may never make it as a product – it’s good to see thinking outside the box!
It is an interesting idea, however, I don’t think that this is one that will make it to market. If it does, I most likely will seldom use it.
I can see the MacBook’s subpar FaceTime camera go in stead of being upgraded in future revisions.
Hint: the illustration of a FaceTime camera equipped Apple Watch wrapped around a MacBook screen.
That’s exactly how I use my leather loop currently.
This is interesting mostly because it hints at possible future interest persistent time display on the Apple Watch. The biggest failing of the Apple Watch to date for me has been the fact that I can’t always rely on it as a watch, as it requires a raise, shake, or press (button or screen) to see the time. Complications are nice, but discretely being able to check the time, whenever I would like (but without turning the wrist), and using the watch as a time-keeper when off my wrist without pushing the screen (eg during a speech / presentation) is necessary for me.
cynical comment: very interesting, but I’d rather hear they’re (also) working on improving battery life.
Wouldn’t also mind if the band did something more useful, such as provide extra sensors or battery.
But I hear Ive is at it again: I’ve read (in mac)rumours that the Watch 2 will be thinner, I guess keeping battery life as-is. :/
Where have you heard this?
I’ve heard rumours the watch will have the same thickness, and a bigger battery. But only to allow for things like built in GPS, not for longer battery life.
Guess we’ll know in a couple of months. :)
Is this a patent from 15-20years ago? or are they also thinking about making extra thick laptops with optical drives and tiny touch pads too….
Also the watch lost its crown for retro buttons.
Apple patent applications typically use old-fashioned looking illustrations to represent product categories.
How is it that I know that by FAR only NON-Apple Watch users voted on this??
Can’t wait for the Apple Watch 2 event.