Apple patent filing suggests small, two-sided iPhone
By Ruben Francia
Apple has filed a patent that may point the way towards smaller iPhones and touch-sensitive iPods, according to a filing published today. Titled “Back-Side Interface for Hand-Held Devices,” the patent described the top side would display the output on a smaller screen and the bottom side would receive user input via a large touch and force sensitive interface.
iPhone maker notes some of the problems associated with touch-screen interfaces. These include scenario that user’s finger for input may occlude a significant portion of the display which may cover more that a single operational control element as well as display smudging.
While stylus based touch-screens may be used to partially reduce the occluding problem and eliminate smudging, the operation require two hands, which is a large disadvantage compared to finger based touch-screen systems, the company added.
The patent hopes to resolve some of the problems inherent to touch-screen interface.
The solution the patent described would include a touch-sensitive surface on the opposite side of the screen where users would direct a cursor on the main screen by gliding a finger along the back surface corresponding to the control, triggering actions by applying extra pressure.
The patent would not only save space but by using the touch controls on the back-side would eliminate smudging without resorting to the use of a stylus. As such, the device could control with just one hand.
The filing indicates that the technology could be applied to mobile telephones, palm or hand-held personal computers, tablet computer systems, portable video players, portable audio players and personal digital assistants.
Whatever the new patent and plans point to, it is certain that the new device features a unique interface which differs greatly from the two-fingered front-side touch screen interface found on the upcoming iPhone.
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