Seen any of those rumors over the years about Apple making a tablet/laptop combo for the masses? Well it seems at least part of the rumor has gone and gotten itself a patent for itself.
Calling it a "convertible MacBook-to-iPad-like device", Patently Apple reports that the patent could be for a MacBook-type device that would convert to something like an iPad in horizontal mode. As a laptop the screen would be propped open at an angle with a virtual keyboard below it; as a tablet, the screen would slide down on top of the keyboard, enabling Multi-Touch control directly on the screen itself.
I could see this being a really popular product among business users and the traveling sect specifically, as it would give them the ability to have both a tablet and a laptop all in one. I would buy one tomorrow if I could, as it would be great to have with me through all the traveling I will be doing over the holidays. Sure, iPad docks with built-in keyboards are a great accessory, but unfortunately they still can't do everything I need my MacBook for.
Dell and others have their own version of a hybrid tablet/laptop computer available right now. But Apple doesn't -- and I am sure they want in on that market. With reports about iOS 4.2 making the iPad a productivity rival for the MacBook Air and the possibility that the new MacBook Air could be eating into iPad sales, a combination of the two could be a home run for many customers.
Apple patent teases convertible laptop / tablet originally appeared on TUAW on Tue, 30 Nov 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Source: http://www.tuaw.com/2010/11/30/apple-patent-teases-convertible-laptop-tablet/
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