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View Full Version : Apple registers patent for 'dual-sided trackpad'



wraggster
June 27th, 2013, 22:54
A newly secured patent by Apple indicates the firm may be looking to update its MacBook range with a second touch panel.
Wording of the patent suggest that Apple may be looking to incorporate a touch screen to the lid of the MacBook, which work function much like an iPad or any other tablet.
In particular, the patent (http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,471,822.PN.&OS=PN/8,471,822&RS=PN/8,471,822) describes "A system including a capacitive array element capable of sensing touch from either side is described."
More interestingly, however, is the portion of the filing that states: "The track pad device may include a display element and the capacitive array element may be translucent."
That would suggest a MacBook device which sports a traditional keyboard, however, a touch screen that is functional when the lid of the device is closed.

http://www.pcr-online.biz/news/read/apple-registers-patent-for-dual-sided-trackpad/031264