Apple could be working on an Apple Watch band that can change color

Apple has been granted a patent for a very novel smartwatch band concept - one that would see an Apple Watch strap's color be controlled by an app.

The USPTO filing describes an Apple Watch band that's able to show icons, shapes and text, while also altering the strap's color to signify things like notifications.

• All the patents that point to future Apple Watch features 

The concept imagines that the band would offer these color-changing skills because of electrochromic elements running through it, with this material able to respond to small electric currents. 

USPTO

As seen in one of the patent's sketches, shown above, Apple shows off a system whereby each of the band's three stripes could be independently controlled - even going as far as to suggest in the filing's background information that users may want to use this to match the band with their clothing.

"Users may desire the ability to customize their watch bands to express variety and style," the patent reads.

"Some existing watches offer the user with an ability to remove and exchange different watch bands for customization. The embodiments described herein are directed to watch bands that provide enhanced color adjustment capabilities."

Whether we'll actually see such a band come to market, of course, is another thing entirely.

While it would certainly be an impressive feat, it feels unlikely Apple would want to undermine its band collection with a do-it-all option - even if it was one that could only be offered in a specific fabric. 

Nonetheless, it's an exciting concept, and shows that the company is constantly thinking of new ways to make the Apple Watch more functional. 

H/T: Patently Apple