Apple patents keyboard with dynamically changing key functions

Apple may be preparing to reinvent the keyboard.

In a patent application approved Tuesday just before the US Patent and Trademark Office filing deadline for 2020, Apple describes a keyboard whose keys would be tailored to the task at hand.

The standard alphanumeric layout, for example, could be transformed into a task-specific screen where the keys could be used to perform functions. Audio recording enthusiasts could turn their keys into triggers that adjust volume, speed, and various special effects. Photo editing programs can assign tools to individual keys and multi-key combinations.

The patent indicates that modifiable key functions would be indicated by “dynamic labels.” These labels, according to a summary published by patentlyapple.com this week, “can be generated using dynamically reconfigurable labels that display components such as organic light-emitting diode displays with pixel arrays, electrophoretic displays with pixel arrays, or other pixel arrays. “

Currently, users can insert silicone placemats on top of their keyboards that indicate specialized software functions via key combinations. But some complain that the mats create an unnatural feeling when typing, that they have to press the keys harder, and that they can’t type as fast with the covers.

The dynamic keys proposed by Apple will provide visual and possibly tactile feedback without diminishing the normal typing experience.

The dynamic keys can be used not only with various work tasks, but also with games. Customizable keyboards would instantly adjust to the required properties of each game.

Another practical application would be to allow users to change the keyboard languages ​​from English, for example, to Chinese or Hebrew.

The keys, according to patentlyapple.com, could be made up of glass, ceramic, polymer or sapphire.

The patent was filed under the oddly worded label: “Electronic devices that have keys with coherent fiber bundles.”

Apple files hundreds of patents each year, many of which never see the light of day in practice.

Apple has turned its attention to keyboards several times over the years. His 2015 introduction of the “butterfly” keys in MacBooks, which ditched the scissor-like structure long used under each key, was met with a lack of enthusiasm. Users complained that the keys were sticking, some generating multiple involuntary keystrokes and others not responding at all. Apple continued to use the keyboard until 2019 despite a large number of consumer complaints.

A creative user known for writing a song on a daily basis for over a decade wrote a song that parodies the keyboard problem in 2017 titled “I’m pressing the space bar and nothing happens.”

A lawsuit was filed against Apple in May 2019 and Apple, after an apology to affected users, launched a free repair program for all MacBook users.

In November, Apple received a patent to bring Force Touch to the MacBook Touch Bar. Force Touch uses sensors to analyze click pressure and determine which finger is being used. The keyboard performs different functions depending on the finger used and the pressure applied. It employs a tactical engine to provide physical feedback to the user through vibrations.

This year, a patent was also issued for an Apple keyboard that magnetically attaches to a portable device.

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