Apple recently received a new patent from the United States Trademark and Patent Office (USPTO) for an unconventional design concept for iPhones and iPads. This design incorporates a touchscreen display on the side of the device, resembling the Touch Bar seen on MacBook Pro models but with expanded functionalities that hold promise for innovation.
Versatile Side Display Concept
The proposed side display on Apple devices aims to offer a range of features and benefits. It could showcase control buttons and user interfaces, provide status updates such as battery life and weather information, and introduce additional control options. This design envisions a scenario where users can manage functions like volume adjustments and music playback through a dedicated side display, potentially reducing reliance on physical buttons and the main screen.
Potential Functionalities and Adaptability
An example presented in the patent illustrates a music player interface on the side display, featuring song details, lyrics, and playback controls. This hints at Apple's pursuit of a more refined and minimalist design approach for future products, possibly complementing their lineup with foldable devices if such plans materialize. The innovation lies not only in having a side display but also in its adaptive nature. The display can dynamically adjust to context, showing controls and information tailored to the ongoing activity, offering a more personalized experience for users.
Future Implications and Concerns
While the deployment timeline for this technology remains undisclosed and uncertain, the patent underscores Apple's ongoing efforts to pioneer novel concepts in smartphone development amidst the evolving landscape of device design. This innovation also raises concerns about the potential fragility of smartphones with side displays, adding a new element to consider in terms of device durability and user experience.
For more insights into Apple's exploration of cutting-edge technologies, one can explore their patent for a handheld device that promises home device control through gestures. This patent exemplifies the company's commitment to pushing boundaries and redefining the smartphone experience, reflecting a continuous quest for groundbreaking advancements in the industry.
