There are rumors that the Apple Watch Series 8 will have an integrated temperature sensor. While there are no further details on how it will be implemented, a new patent for a high-precision sensor that has been granted to Apple may provide some clues.
- Apple is working on an advanced temperature detection system
- The system is unconventionally designed to provide accurate temperature measurements
- It’s unclear if the sensor will be integrated on the Apple Watch Series 8
discoverer my healthy apple, the patent was filed in 2020 but was only awarded to Cupertino this week. It details a sophisticated temperature gradient detection system that is quite different from the infrared sensor used on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5. This approach has significant advantages, including a smaller footprint and accurate measurement of user body temperature throughout the day, which can also be used for other form factors.
The detection device consists of a temperature sensor and a temperature difference probe. Additionally, differential probes are described as having thin and flexible substrates that can be designed into a variety of shapes. The substrate will have two ends, one connected to a dedicated temperature sensor and the other connected to any surface or the lower glass portion of the Apple Watch that is in direct contact with the skin.
Temperature gradient sensor patent on Apple Watch / © USPTO
Benefits of the Temperature Gradient Sensor on Apple Watch
Due to the many limitations of current and conventional temperature sensors, the idea of an advanced system can remove several barriers when it comes to providing accurate temperature readings. Additionally, it will allow manufacturers to reduce the required component surface area without sacrificing the accuracy of body temperature measurement. Finally, Apple’s solution is expected to be less susceptible to external factors such as ambient temperature changes.
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While it’s unclear if the device will appear in the Apple Watch Series 8, the technology could appear on wearables and devices other than smartwatches. It measures the wearer’s temperature through the inner ear and is used on AirPods. In the end, assuming Apple aims to expand the usability of its devices, especially smartwatches, this could be the next technological frontier after smartphones.