Report: Apple Working on Wireless, Solar Charging for iWatch

Apple is reportedly working on a battery for its not-yet-announced iWatch that could be charged both wirelessly and from the sun.

According to a New York Times report, the company is looking to build a smarter battery for its long-rumored smartwatch. The report notes that Apple engineers have experimented with — and are still testing — solar charging for the iPod and iPhone, too.

Apple is eyeing a wireless battery with magnetic induction for the iWatch that wouldn't need to be plugged in, the report stated. Induction charging would allow the device to be charged via a base with electromagnetic fields that would create voltage to fuel the iWatch. This technology is already found in some devices, including Nokia's smartphones. However, the report stated the experiment is still a few years away from launch.

Apple is also reportedly considering a charging concept that would include a solar layer added to the iWatch's curved screen that could give the device power from the sun.

Last week, a report surfaced that Apple's upcoming iOS 8 software will be largely fitness and health-focused and will launch later this year. The news suggests the long-rumored iWatch, which would likely integrate with fitness apps, is nearing a debut, too.