CUPERTINO, Calif., Jan. 28 (UPI) -- Apple could be working on a solar-powered MacBook and attachable lenses of the iPhone, winning patents from the US Patent and Trademark Office.
Charging your Macbook may be as easy as just leaving it in the sunlight. An Apple patent called "Electronic device display module" is for a double-sided laptop display. While the front would house a regular display, the rear plate would be made of "electrochromic glass" or "smart glass."
In the light-blocking state the rear would appear opaque or translucent, while in the light-passing state the rear panel would be appear clear. Solar cells placed below the electrochromic glass would take in light as it passes through the rear panel, converting it into electricity at a rate of 10 milliwatts or more. Apple suggests that cells producing 100 milliwatts, 1 watt or perhaps more could charge the laptop while it's in use.
Another possible accessory would help iPhone users snap better photos, a common request from those using the phone. The "Magnetic add-on lenses with alignment ridge" patent describes how a camera lens could be attached to an iPhone. The lens would use magnets to lock into place and align with the existing camera lens.
Other manufacturers already produce optical add-ons that attach to the iPhone and offer expanded picture-taking opportunities.
[Magnetic add-on lenses with alignment ridge] [Electronic device display module]
