Apple "iSlate" tablet patent details are released

Mon 28 Dec 2009 1 Comment

Details of Apple's eagerly anticipated new tablet have been released as its patent application hit the public domain.

Thought to be named the iSlate (Apple has revealed it has bought the rights to the iSlate.com domain name) the tablet will be keyboard-less, and is expected to resemble a large iPhone.

Although detailed dimension plans are a little thin on the ground, the Guardian suggested Apple are working on two versions of the iSlate; one with a 10-inch screen and another smaller 7-inch model. As with the iPhone, users will be able to download applications by third-party developers onto the device.

In the patent, some time is devoted to the tablet's touchscreen capabilities with reports users will “be surprised with the way [they] interact with the new tablet”. Delving into the patent Apple Insider discovered Apple will use an “articulating frame” to produce bumps under the screen which will help users find the right keys, rather than dabbing at a totally flat touchscreen.

The patent application stated: “The articulating frame may provide key edge ridges that define the boundaries of the key regions or may provide tactile feedback mechanisms within the key regions. The articulating frame may also be configured to cause concave depressions similar to mechanical key caps in the surface. Preferably, each key edge comprises one to four distinct bars or Braille-like dots.”

Apple is set to make a formal announcement on the iSlate tablet at the end of January.

Like this? Please share it!

Like Broadband Genie?




Comments

  • happy

    by aaditi at 04:51 on 7 Dec 2010Report abuse

    The OLED display could add up to $500 to the price – these screens aren’t cheap. Otherwise, it will have a full cell phone technology load and come with a data plan much like an iPhone does. It would seem likely, just as it was with the iPhone, that an iPod version could launch in the August/September timeframe.

Add your comment now

Post a reply to this thread

 

 

Please describe your emotions in making this comment:


Powered by reCAPTCHA

Unless you are a verified user, comments will be moderated before they appear. Comments submitted entirely in capital letters, containing advertising or excessive swearing will be rejected; please try to be polite. The best comments are relevant, factual and balanced; think about all aspects of the package, such as speed, connection quality and customer service. We reserve the right to edit comments.