Samsung recently snagged a patent for a James Bond-like feature that turns skin into a screen, allowing users to navigate a smartwatch or virtual/augmented reality headset on a larger surface.

These wearables, according to the patent, would include a teeny projector to beam UI elements (dial pad, notifications, menu options) onto the back of the user's arm, hand, or fingers. A built-in camera then processes those behaviors, and a chipset translates them into mobile or virtual actions.

Samsung isn't the only one eyeing additional smartwatch real estate: A Carnegie Mellon University research lab early this month introduced SkinTrack—a solution that turns your arm and hand into an extended touch screen. Users wear a "harmless" high-frequency AC-signal-emitting ring, which communicates with electrodes in the accompanying smartwatch wristband, powering interactive applications like swiping, touching, and tracking. It even works when skin is covered with clothing.

But as the university's Future Interfaces Group discovered, there are a number of hurdles to cross on the way to SkinTrack commercialization. Chief among them is sensing stability over time and the fact that slight changes to the body (hydration, sweat, etc.) can disorient the program. Researchers also cited the issue of powering the signal-emitting ring, as well as figuring out how much pressure is needed for each action.

As usual, patents don't always translate into actual products.

The company did not immediately respond to PCMag's request for comment.