The images in the patent application show that users could get some kind of analog laptop with a screen detached from the keyboard. A convenient solution that many people will definitely like.

The idea of ​​a keyboard for the iPad in general is not new, but before, all Apple accessories called the Magic Keyboard looked like some kind of case. The new design offers a hard keyboard that makes the gadget look more like a laptop.

Patent image of Apple keyboard / Apple Photo

The drawing shows the base connected to the iPad. It’s pretty much the same as Microsoft Surface devices. The gadget is equipped with electromechanical keys and a large MacBook-specific touchpad. According to the patent description, the model may have a pen slot similar to the Touch Bar and a small touchscreen.

There is a slot for iPencil / Apple Photo

Keyboards with similar features but without the Touch Bar are already available for purchase from third-party Logitech manufacturers. Along with iPad OS, Apple tablets can very confidently replace laptops.

Interface changes

The image also shows interface elements such as macOS-style windows – but the software itself is not described in the app. Although Apple never mentioned its intention to integrate macOS into tablets, the separation of iPadOS from iOS shows a gradual movement in this direction. A special version of the operating system for tablets is experiencing its fourth embodiment.

The interface of future versions of iPad OS will be more like iOS / Apple Photos

It’s worth noting that other Apple patents show the company’s grand plans. Yes, the universal port allows the connection of both the keyboard and other accessories from Apple and third-party manufacturers, such as a camera and microphone, and even an additional display, according to the description.

However, we should not forget that Apple, like many other companies, often patents solutions that will not appear on the market in the future, remaining only in the form of sketches on paper.