Apple's patent for a modular watch strap holds big promises for wearables

If all goes as planned, you’ll soon have more strap options for your Apple Watch than the standard leather, silicon or metal link.Apple was granted a patent on Tuesday that describes “modular functional band links for wearable devices,”  where the links are “connected to one or more other of the band links and/or the wearable device and include one or more electronic components.”As first reported by Apple Insider, the patent has promising possibilities for the Apple Watch’s future. As the patent specifies that each link could include electrical components, what that essentially means is you could customise your smartwatch as per your needs. In theory, you’d be able to add a camera for bike trip, blood pressure sensor for your diabetes, or even a SIM card for added functionality.This doesn’t stray too far from what Apple has already said either. In 2015, CEO Tim Cook hinted at possible medical applications of the Apple Watch. In addition, modular components also opens up more avenues for third-party app developers to collaborate.That being said, there’s no guarantee when, or even if, the modular watch strap would be launched, but it would likely be at least a couple of years in the offing.