Apple seeks a patent for an Apple Watch camera that could be used for Face ID

Above: The latest version of the Wristcam watch for the Apple Watch. Apple would like to place a built-in camera in the same location.

Another illustration from Apple’s patent application

Apple adds, “To perform one or more of these functions, the digital camera assembly can be directed toward a subject. The assembly could be connected to internal circuitry, such as the battery of the timepiece.

The patent application talks about putting the camera on a protrusion and the trick is finding a location where it can be placed without being a distraction for the Apple Watch user. As Apple writes, “For example, in implementations where a digital camera assembly is positioned within an internal cavity (e.g., camera cavity) of a protrusion, the digital camera assembly may extend from the housing, over a band slot, and away from a display, a battery, a circuit assembly, or sensors of the wearable electronic device.”