A glass MacBook? That's how Apple envisions its possible design.
One of the most notable features of the glass casing is that it "provides input and output functionality."
Since 2011, various patents have emerged suggesting the possibility of glass-made MacBooks and iMacs. This week, a new patent was revealed, describing a "glass housing" for a device resembling a MacBook. This model includes a virtual keyboard and a trackpad. Additionally, there is another patent mentioning "finger devices," which would be aimed at reducing strain when typing on a glass surface.
One of the highlights of this glass housing is that it offers "I/O functionality." This means that, instead of having an independent trackpad and physical keys, the housing itself would act as an input and output method. In certain contexts, it would serve solely as protection for the internal components, while in others, it could display information and respond to user interaction.
While the idea sounds futuristic, it's hard to imagine its implementation, especially considering that glass, although it can be durable, might also be fragile. There is a possibility that these patents may never materialize into a final product, or that, at best, they could become niche products for Apple enthusiasts. If the company decides to launch something commercial of this type, one could assume that the glass used would be durable enough for everyday use.
The concept of "finger devices" also seems intriguing, as it involves the use of materials that could be uncomfortable, offset by small accessories that would enhance ergonomics. However, since Apple’s trackpads already utilize flat surfaces that simulate a click through haptic feedback, the experience of typing on a glass keyboard might not be as unfavorable as one might think.
Although many of Apple’s patents rarely turn into actual products, it is intriguing to observe the innovative ideas the company explores, even if they never reach the market.
