Apple often files applications for whacky patents for devices that may or may not (mostly not) make their way to the commercial market. A similar patent was recently filed by the tech giant, describing special MacBook keys that can also work as a wireless mouse. Confused? Let’s look at how it might work if it ever makes its way to a commercial MacBook laptop.
Apple recently filed a patent application, titled “Deployable key mouse,” at the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Citing the size and portability issues of computer mice, Apple describes special deployable keys that could be detached from a keyboard to use as a wireless pointing device.
In some cases, as described in the patent, the keys can have a convex surface, which will provide more surface area for easy touching and gliding gestures. The detachable key can also double as a fingerprint scanner too.
