Apple granted patent for AirPods-style wireless charging case for Apple Watch ⌚

Apple has today been granted a patent for an Apple Watch charging carrying case which works like the AirPods case – providing somewhere to store the Watch when not in use, while simultaneously recharging it. The design is significantly different to that offered with the original $10k+ Apple Watch Edition.

While a charging case for a device typically worn all day might sound less useful than the AirPods case, it makes more sense when you read the details … In addition to the Watch itself, the patent describes the case having room for additional bands, some of which might be powered.

"Some embodiments of the disclosure pertain to a case that can securely hold and store a portable electronic device, such as a wrist-worn or other wearable electronic device, along with one or more bands that can be used with the device. Embodiments of the case can include circuitry that can charge the stored electronic device and some embodiments can further include circuitry that can charge the one or more bands stored in the case if those bands have electronic components, such as circuitry, sensors and/or batteries, that also require power."

So whether it’s a band designed simply to extend the battery-life of the Watch itself (something we’ve seen in both Apple patents and third-party product ideas), or a powered strap with additional sensors and gadgets, the case would recharge those too.

Additionally, a charging case might be more convenient than the puck when travelling, allowing an overnight charge without yet another thing to plug in overnight.