Next-Generation MacBook Could Have Removable Keyboard

Apple has applied for a patent for a next-generation portable device, specifically, a MacBook with a unique kind of keyboard interface. The new design will allow this possible future MacBook to adjust to meet the needs of various users, regardless of whether the device is used in a professional capacity or for leisure.

The patent application recently published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office is a continuation of previous patents focusing on various devices, Patently Apple noted. But unlike those previous patents, this one focuses on a “portable computer system.”

The patent application has several embodiments, all of them describing a future MacBook that has a removable or changeable keyboard. The device will have a display portion housing a display panel and a base portion that could be coupled with a physical keyboard or used with a virtual keyboard that could adapt to different scenarios.

Here's a quick discussion of the patent application's several embodiments.

Removable physical keyboard

The patent claims that the portable computer system will have, among other things, “a keyboard configured to be removably coupled to the top exterior surface.” This keyboard will be magnetically aligned to the top surface of the base portion.

This is best illustrated by Microsoft's upcoming Surface Neo. This device has two displays and uses a physical keyboard that magnetically attaches to one of the screens. Users who don't need the keyboard can simply remove it as they please.

Apple's new technology is somehow similar to this.

Adjusts to the user's needs

The base portion of the device can also be configured to “an input device configured to be removably coupled to the top exterior surface of the base portion and configured to receive inputs from a user.”

Here's where it gets interesting. Several patent illustrations show the MacBook's base portion being configured to act as a keyboard for a variety of uses.

One illustration shows the device with several sensors around the physical keyboard. Another illustration shows a part of the palm rest with components allowing the device to work with a joystick or components used to wirelessly charge another iDevice.

Other illustrations show the physical keyboard as having been replaced with virtual keyboards with special keys for gaming purposes or special keys for DJs.

Some illustrations also show the physical keyboard with sensors under keys that will allow users to swipe their fingers on the keys to draw as if swiping fingers on a trackpad or the iPad.

While the technologies described in the patent application seem exciting, there's no guarantee they will make it to market.