Rumored Apple Watch bands will bring more sensors to your wrist

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This hidden port may be the key to future Apple Watch accessories.
This hidden port may be the key to future Apple Watch accessories.
Photo: Jim Merithew/Cult of Mac

Apple is looking to bring even more fitness sensors to your wrist by creating special Apple Watch bands that will take advantage of the device’s hidden port, according to a new rumor.

The special Apple Watch bands would allow current owners to add more functionality to their device without needing to buy an entirely new watch, according to LetemSvetem Apple’s sources. The Czech Apple news site says the straps in development are compatible with the current Apple Watch, but won’t be available until early 2016.

The new sensors Apple is supposedly looking to add would measure blood oxygen level, respiratory rate, blood pressure and body temperature. Apple is reportedly planning to integrate the new sensors into the bands because they can not be placed directly in the Apple Watch, which is already one of the best fitness wearables on the market.

Body temperature sensors would be located on the opposite side of the wrist from the Apple Watch itself to avoid being influenced by the heat produced by the gadget.

Apple hasn’t revealed any uses yet for the diagnostic port hidden in the groove of the Apple Watch band connector; however, at least one company is already developing a charging bracelet that increases Apple Watch battery life through the port.

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