Well, patent lovers, today we’re in for a doozy. The folks at Engadget noticed that a rather interesting patent filing from Apple appeared on the United States Patent and Trademark Office website today.
In essence, this patent explains a process of allowing Apple’s smart cover to have an embedded display that works with the iPad it is attached to. From the images included with the patent, it shows off some potential uses. For example, the image featured above shows that a status message can be displayed when using the Smart Cover as a typing stand. Alternately, it could be used as an extra row of icons, a dock, or a fast app switcher.
As always, it is important to point out that just because Apple files for a patent doesn’t mean they intend to release a product featuring that technology. Sadly, patents are used as much to hamper other companies as they are to protect useful inventions. We might never see a Smart Cover that has a built-in display, or maybe we’ll see one tomorrow. It’s impossible to guess at this point.
The idea of using this display for quick app-switching or for notifications is actually very interesting, though. If it means my tablet’s main display is clutter free, this is something I would jump on immediately. No more double-clicking or four-finger swiping sounds very nice. So, what do you think? Is this a cool idea? Do you hope to see this in the future? Sound off by leaving a message in the comment section below this post. We love to hear from you.
Source: PTO
