Amid rumors that Apple's next-generation iPhone 6 may boast some kind of solar energy display, the company's purported iWatch is now said to come with the same technology.

One of the big challenges that device manufacturers face is battery life. A device may rock the highest-end specs and features ever, but if its battery life is disappointing chances are that it will not be very successful. Manufacturers are constantly striving to improve the battery efficiency of their gadgets, and Apple may be on to something.

The much-rumored iWatch is yet to make an official debut, but several reports so far have tried to paint a picture of what to expect. Previous rumors claimed that Apple was facing some manufacturing challenges with its smartwatch in terms of battery life and display.

According to a new report from the New York Times (NYT), the company may design its iWatch with a curved glass display. While this has been speculated before, the new report also claims that the curved glass display of the iWatch may also come with some sort of solar charging capacity, as the company is looking into this possibility.

Apple has reportedly been considering wireless charging as well for its iWatch, but it remains unclear at this point just how the company will implement this technology. One option would be to use a system such as QI charging technology, which is used with some smartphones, but Apple could also develop a new system.

Smartwatches are expected to gain momentum this year, and Apple's iWatch will reportedly be more than a simple accessory for iPhones or iPads. The smartwatch may also sport some kind of home automation, though nothing is confirmed for now. Various reports have also suggested that fitness and health monitoring will also play a big role in the iWatch, as well as iOS 8. Apple has yet to announce launch plans for its first smartwatch, but the gadget is expected to make a debut by the end of this year.

Samsung launched its first smartwatch, the Galaxy Gear, in 2013, but most tech reviewers and observers think that it rushed things and brought the device to market before it was ready. A second-generation Galaxy Gear is expected to make its debut this year, addressing the issues of the original smartwatch and taking things to the next level. While Samsung may have launched its gadget prematurely, Apple is reportedly taking its time to make sure it gets it right the first time. The iWatch is also expected to come in two sizes, one with a 1.5-inch display for women and another with a slightly larger 1.7-inch display for men.

Until the company makes an official announcement, however, take everything with a grain of salt.