Apple has filed for another patent (number 20180218859) for a “device having an integrated interface system” that hints at, among other things, a Mac laptop with a virtual keyboard. Another is patent number 20170147087.
The patent filing is for a portable computer includes a display portion comprising a display, a base portion pivotally coupled to the display portion and including a glass top case. The glass top case defines an exterior surface and a keyboard opening through the glass top case from the exterior surface to an interior surface. The portable computer further includes a keyboard positioned at least partially within the keyboard opening and comprising a substrate, a key configured to move relative to the substrate. It also has a fabric cover disposed over the key and defining a user interface surface of the key.
Of course, Apple files for — and is granted — lots of patents by the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office. Many are for inventions that never see the light of day. However, you never can tell which ones will materialize in a real product.
