A new patent just acquired by Apple shows a new iPad keyboard that not only makes the iPad more useful but also completely transforms it into a Mac by changing the interface of the device. The possibilities of iPadOS have been talked about many times, especially when we use it with an external keyboard and mouse, and this patent makes these possibilities a reality.
Actually, what the patent seems to show is a kind of hybrid device, similar to Microsoft’s Surface, a kind of MacBook with a touch screen. But we know that this is not within the philosophy of Apple. Right now iPads and Macs have the same M1 processor. So the only possibility is for an iPad keyboard that slightly transforms it into a more desktop-oriented device.
Apple patents new iPad keyboard
As reported by Patently Apple, the patent also suggests that the keyboard hinge may magnetically support the Apple Pencil, or may even support other accessories such as a camera, projector, or microphone. Of course, the iPad itself should be updated when this accessory is released.
It has already been rumored that Apple will change multitasking in some way in iPadOS 16, with a windowed view similar to what we have in macOS. If this is true, perhaps it could be an interface that is only activated by connecting a keyboard, similar to what appears in this patent granted to Apple.
Of course, like so many other Apple patents that we have seen, it could be just that, an idea. Most of the patents we have seen never materialize in a final device, or if they do, it is after several years. Perhaps Apple is only guaranteeing the designs of a future hybrid device that will arrive in a few years.
We will see if this patent is fulfilled, or if something similar finally arrives. Honestly, it would be something really interesting if it came to the iPad and it would undoubtedly make the Apple tablet a much more productive device.
