Apple iWatch rumors began anew this week with news that Cupertino has been granted a smartwatch-related patent for a technology it has dubbed iTime.
Drawings of the device look similar to smartwatches currently on the market, but the iTime comes with a twist: its rectangular face can be removed to operate independently of the band, which provides its own set of separate sensors.
The central iTime unit could serve as a sort of mini iPod, and in fact does resemble the 7th-gen iPod nano, storing and playing media controlled via the touch-screen display, as well as displaying information about incoming phone calls and text messages.
Apple also described the watch's "personal wireless environment," which allows for the exchange of information between nearby cellular- or Internet-connected iDevices or Mac computers. That way, wearers can receive push notifications directly on their wrist.
"Portable electronic devices are commonplace today," according to the patent, which was first filed in 2011. "There are, however, continuing needs to make portable electronic devices smaller and more portable. There is also a continuing need to enhance functionalities of portable electronic devices."
In February 2013, another smartwatch patent filing described a flexible touch-screen display and a "slap bracelet" mechanism, with features like a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection.
Rumor about an Apple iWatch have been swirling for two years, though the fabled device has yet to make a public appearance. Perhaps it will finally make its debut this fall?
Earlier this month, Cupertino reportedly poached Tag Heuer senior executive Patrick Pruniaux, who formerly served as the watch maker's vice president of sales and retail.
For more, see Why Apple Should Create the Rolex of Smartwatches.