The convergence in technology and the similarity of some components used by Apple for manufacturing iPads and MacBooks, is fueling research on technology to bridge the gap between the iPad and the MacBook. According to Patently Apple, a new patent granted the Cupertino-based company shows a hinged keyboard mechanism that could provide the keyboard environment and support that will effectively allow an iPad to function as a MacBook Pro. The new keyboard design goes beyond just attaching a keyboard to an iPad and could be an exciting product if it comes out.
Apple had previously dismissed the idea of convergence of an iPad to a Mac, but new technologies, in combination with the patent, may have put the possibility in a fresh perspective. The patent is a fascinating glimpse into a possible future direction for Apple. The patent describes a base system with an electromechanical keyboard and a hinged coupler that can attach to the iPad in multiple modes including laptop and reverse display mode. In the base position, multiple input devices could be attached to the iPad. These include a keyboard, trackpad, and a touchscreen display. These are input options for the tablet computing device. Magnetic connection and wireless charging Apple pencil. The configuration also provides for a second display.
There are several possibilities with the new Apple patent but whether it will eventually become a commercial product is a different issue. It will be interesting to see how this product evolves if indeed Apple is pursuing its development.
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