Samsung has patented a wrist wearable that projects a larger user interface (UI) onto the back of the hand of a smartwatch wearer. This tech would help to solve the problem of the tiny displays on smart watches.
The patent application was filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. It describes a device that can identify the shape of the user's hand and then uses a small projector to beam a UI with bigger controls and more information.
Meanwhile, the smartwatch contains a built-in camera that detects how the user's other hand is interacting with the interface.
The patent's diagrams show a zoomed view of a map displayed on the wearable. It also reveals a bigger dial pad. In addition, the drawings show that portions of the UI could be extended onto the back of fingers, according to TechnoBuffalo.
The sketches for the patent filing also show that the new wearable's display could be projected onto other surfaces. They include a table or other flat surface, or nearby wall.
In addition, the listing shows Samsung's display tech could be used on other wearable form factors. They include virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) headsets.
There are many issues Samsung would have to deal with including battery life limits. However, if the company can solve the problems it would result in better smartwatches.
Several tasks are very difficult on today's tiny smartwatch screens. A secondary display would make texts, emails, games, and videos easier to see.
It is important to note that there is no guarantee that the patent application would result in a new product on the retail market. However, it shows the Korean company is thinking outside the box.
In related news, researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed wearable tech that uses a person's arm to expand a smartwatch touchscreen, according to ABC News. It is called SkinTrack.
The new technology allows wearable owners to use gestures on their skin, such as swiping and drawing.
Ph.D. student Yang Zhang explained that SkinTrack's wrist band and ring would unobtrusive. That is because several people already wear wristwatches and rings. The tech could also be added to "smart rings" teased by Apple and other companies.
Here's a first look at SkinTrack: