AppleInsider Staff
iPad owners might soon have a new, more compact option when choosing a keyboard to pair with their tablet as Apple is contemplating a redesigned iPad Smart Case with an integrated, multitouch keyboard.
Apple revealed the invention in a patent application uncovered by AppleInsider and entitled "Cover for electronic device." The proposed case appears to be a combination of the company's existing Smart Case and Smart Cover, with the addition of a thin touch-sensitive keyboard.
Unlike similar products, Apple's design does not use the keyboard to form part of the exterior of the case. Instead, the keyboard is a separate piece that can be detached while still allowing the iPad to be fully ensconced in the case.
While the current Smart Case and Smart Cover use magnets to stay in position, Apple envisions several other options for the new design. Buttons, snaps, buckles, Velcro, and "other types of mechanical enclosures" are among the options mentioned.
According to Apple, the keyboard could connect to the iPad either wirelessly or via a physical plug. Most third-party iPad keyboards today connect via Bluetooth, as does Apple's own popular aluminum wireless keyboard.
Apple credits John G. Elias with the invention of U.S. Patent Application No. 13/624868.
Charles Martin
Malcolm Owen
William Gallagher
Christine McKee
Wesley Hilliard
27 Comments
Yes. But will it have the Microsoft click-clack attachment? /s
I would really like for them to do this. Being in a school, typing on the touchscreen isn't always easy, especially if you're using the iPad for any period of time and typing a lot, say like in Pages or something like that. Sure, you can get a case with one integrated, or get the Apple Bluetooth keyboard but it would be nice to have an Apple supported case with one integrated in.
The one thing Microsoft got right. A keyboard that runs off of the device's battery and is part of the case.
I've always been reluctant to have a keyboard on my iPad. I don't even like cases or anything else for my iDevices. I like them naked.
My GF got an iPad and insisted on a keyboard. I must admit it is pretty cool. It's a Logitech with a fabric orange outside and a white rubbery keyboard. She loves it and says it's the best laptop she's ever had.
When I met her she had POS Windows laptop that had to be plugged in all the time b/c the battery would not hold a charge. I let her use my white MacBook. Then got her the iPad.
It's light, it's simple to operate, it syncs with her iPhone and it has all her stuff backed up with iCloud and Dropbox. She couldn't be happier.
Oh, and it prints, wirelessly to our Brother printer.
P.S. I have to believe Apple can do a better job than Logitech when it comes to designing the iPad KB.
Best.
What here is worthy of a patent ? Velcro, buckles, buttons, snaps; oh yea, that's what Apple will use. Really ?