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A month ago, Apple released its thinnest iPad Pro, which is only 5.3mm thick. Compared to its predecessor, that’s a 0.6 mm reduction in thickness.
Users are reporting the difference in profile is not really noticeable, but still, we see that Apple is trying to make its premium tablets as thin as possible.
But what will Apple’s cheaper iPads look like in the future?
Thanks to our collaboration with David from @xleaks7, we spotted Apple’s patent that sheds some light on future iPads.
The patent
According to the patent, the new iPad may be equipped with a retractable tray for storing an Apple Pencil inside.
Such a mechanism would help to securely store an Apple Pencil when not in use, ensuring alignment for attachment, data and power transfers.
But how is it possible to store an Apple Pencil with a diameter of 7.4 mm inside a tablet that is 5.1 – 6.1 mm thick?
The patent suggests that the tray can transition to a lower profile when the stylus is used by the user.
The same mechanism can transition to a lower profile while not retaining the stylus (e.g., while the stylus is in use as an input device for the host device)
From the patent
Also, when an Apple Pencil is inside the tablet, it would be charged wirelessly, when needed.
Such a design innovation will improve the ease of access, charging, and communication between a pencil and tablet while ensuring maximum protection from damage.
Benefits
- Secure storage: An Apple Pencil is securely stored inside a tablet, minimizing the risk of loss or damage
- Sleek profile: When a pencil is used (not inside a tablet), the tray transitions to a lower profile, reducing the bulk of the host device
- Accessibility: Users can easily access an Apple Pencil without complicated steps
- Convenient charging: When needed, an Apple Pencil can be charged wirelessly while it’s inside a tablet
Key Features
- Secure Stylus Storage: The case has a special holder that keeps the stylus safe and in place when you’re not using it, so you don’t lose it or damage it
- Perfect Alignment: This holder ensures the stylus fits perfectly with your device for charging and communication, so everything works smoothly
- Impact Protection: The stylus is protected from bumps and drops, keeping it safe from damage
- Slim Design When In Use: When you’re using the stylus, the holder becomes less noticeable and doesn’t get in your way
- Hidden Holder: The holder can be tucked away, so it looks like your device doesn’t have a stylus holder at all, keeping the design sleek
- Flexible Tray Positions: The case has a tray that can be moved into different positions (retracted, extended, and secured) to suit different needs
- Easy Access to Stylus: The stylus is easy to grab when you need it and just as easy to store away securely when you don’t
Future Expectations
In the future, we can look forward to even smarter and more convenient ways to store and charge our Apple Pencils with our devices. Imagine slimmer designs that blend seamlessly with your tablet or phone, making it easy to carry around without extra bulk.
Charging your stylus wirelessly will become quicker and more efficient, ensuring it’s always ready when you need it. With improved sensors, using a stylus will feel more natural and precise, just like writing with a pen on paper.
It’s possible that only certain types of iPads will have retractable trays for storing Apple Pencils.
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