When Apple released theMagic Keyboard , it basically gave iPad owners the ability to metamorphose their tablet into a laptop . At least , from a hardware view .
It ’s not an ideal solution , though . The accessory is heavy , it does n’t let you utilize the iPad as a standalone tablet , and viewing slant are modified . Seemingly guide a Sir Frederick Handley Page fromMicrosoft ’s Surface Prodevices , Apple could one sidereal day release a more traditional detachable keyboard attachment with more tablet placement options , at least if anewly reveal patent moves onwards .
In thepatent(viaApple Insider ) , Apple describes a pill supplement with a fundament portion and a “ conjugation chemical mechanism , ” which would sit alongside a keyboard that uses electromechanical key . Apple trace several iterations of this detachable construct , each of which yield users the flexibility to place the iPad in various orientations .
Photo: Caitlin McGarry/Gizmodo
There are some rather strange implementations here , including a few that will make people squirm and a few that seem rather intuitive . In one scenario , Apple describes a “ coupler mechanism , ” or a hinge , that overlap the back panel of the tablet and has its own auxiliary display showing a customs duty substance , battery levels , the date and times , etc . It cue me of the jury on theAsus Zenbook 14X OLED Space EditionI recently reviewed .
Having the screenland on the back of the tablet so you may view significant selective information when the equipment is closed could be rather useful . I ’m less thrilled about what befall when you flip the lozenge around . In this apparatus , the flexible joint would overlap the tab display , create a gravid rectangular notch with a built - in interface where the tab ’s bill of fare saloon would occupy . One version does n’t even have its own “ graphical interface , ” and another uses the front notch as a stylus holder . When the pen is removed , a screen underneath could show redaction puppet .
Interestingly , the UI evidence on the display of this pad is signally a desktop O similar to macOS . Apple hasrepeatedly guard its stancethat the iPad will remain an iPad , intend it will supposedly always be a mobile twist that does n’t share the same operating system as its laptops or desktops . This , however , evoke otherwise .
Image: USPTO
A more traditional hinged keyboard accessory expect similar to the Surface Pro , where the tablet rupture into a keyboard affixation on the bottom sharpness and closes like a Christian Bible . In one concept , the hinge supports additional accoutrement , like a photographic camera , projectors , or microphone . Again , Apple is n’t on the button known for modularity , so this seems like a recollective shot .
In any case , here is how Apple explains the detachable add-on , in distinctive jargony patent words :
“ The accoutrement gadget may include a coupling chemical mechanism for releasably couple the base portion of the appurtenant gadget to a pill compute gadget in multiple different installment fashion . The conjugation mechanism may include an auxiliary display for providing a graphical output along a surface of the coupling mechanism . to boot or alternatively , the yoke mechanism may include a recess for receive a stylus . ”
Image: USPTO
As with all patents , we should n’t read too much into any of this , though it does reveal some of the unique ways Apple is considering acquire the lozenge manakin factor after having launch the Magic Keyboard for the iPad Pro and now iPad Air models . This patent was utilize for in July 2020 and granted today . It ’s possible , even probable , that these never escape the Cupertino spaceship , but they at least give us a glimmer of hope for a future where the iPad is a true Mac choice .
AppleAsusiPadMicrosoft SurfaceSurface ProTablet information processing system
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Image: USPTO
