Apple applies for 'iWatch' trademark in Japan, suggesting it might be working on wristwatch

The Apple Store on 5th avenue in New York City. (Apple)

Apple Inc. has applied for a trademark in Japan for "iWatch," indicating it may be proceeding with rumored plans to produce a smart wristwatch.

A document obtained Monday from the Japan Patent Office's website says the application was made June 3 and made public June 27.

It was not immediately clear when the application might be approved. Patent office and Apple officials in Japan were not available for comment late Monday.

Apple is rumored to be working on a smart watch that would run on a version of the operating system used by its iPhone and iPad. The company has not confirmed those rumors, but CEO Tim Cook has hinted that it may be developing a wearable computing device such as a wristwatch.