Iphone 7, Apple has been granted a patent for solar cells embedded underneath touch screens, similar to those used in Macbook trackpad, iPhone, iPad or Apple Watch display. A new patent from Apple highlighted by PatentlyApple this week, though, describes a technology that would be a very welcome remedy to battery life issues.
The patent covers applying solar cells to a touch display surface like a trackpad or iPhone to store power for the device” As indicated by the US patent, the hidden solar panel would revive the cell phone for the duration of a whole day. However, the Apple patent is very vague about the technology – which could provide a welcome battery boost to the firm’s slew of power-hungry devices. Apple explains in the US patent: “The wireless device has a touch sensor and a solar cell that converts ambient light into electrical power. In either case, relying on solar power in part to prolong battery life during use would be a welcome addition to Apple’s d
esktop peripherals. The patent could also be applied to add a solar component to trackpads found on Apple’s portable MacBooks to prevent the need to charge as frequently between uses. This radical redesign could be a perfect opportunity for Apple to introduce its recently-patented solar technology. Thankfully, Apple fans will not have to wait for the iPhone 7 to get a bump in battery life. The upcoming iPhone 6S is expected to get a bigger battery cell.
Ibrahim Abdelhady is an architect, academic, and media entrepreneur with over two decades of experience in architecture and digital publishing. He is the Founder and CEO of Arch2O.com, a leading platform in architectural media, renowned for showcasing innovative projects, student work, and critical discourse in design. Holding dual PhDs in Architecture, Dr. Abdelhady combines academic rigor with industry insight, shaping both future architects and architectural thought. He actively teaches, conducts research, and contributes to the global architecture community through his writing, lectures, and media ventures. His work bridges the gap between practice and academia, pushing the boundaries of how architecture is communicated in the digital age.