A patent application from Apple published today by the US Patent and Trademark Office reveals details about a “wearable accessory device” that could hint at its plans for the rumored “iWatch.” Originally filed on Aug. 17, 2011, the patent application for “Bi-stable spring with flexible display” describes a wearable accessory device that includes a flexible display, coupled to a bi-stable spring—a bendable surface that can lock into two positions, like a slap band.
The patent also notes that “[w]ith a touch screen user input a user can accomplish a number of different tasks including adjusting the order of a current playlist, and reviewing a list of recent phone calls,” phrases that suggest possible functionality for the device.
One included image shows the accessory as a bracelet, worn around the wrist.
The wearable video device would have a “flat state” and “curled state” and an “electronic module in communication with the flexible display.” As an example, the application lists snaps or velcro as possibilities for securing the device to a wrist, though the patent’s abstract points out such a device could be “easily worn in a number of convenient locations.” [via Apple Insider]