Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) is exploring putting touch capabilities on more devices than just the iPad and iPhone. Currently, Apple notebooks like the Macbook Pro and Air have the multitouch trackpad as their main user interface, but a recently awarded patent signals that Apple is looking into using the Macbook’s frame as a touch input as well. The patented chassis design allows users to use the entire bezel as an input, giving control of the mic gain, speaker volume or play/pause capabilities.
Don’t get too excited, however, as Apple is known to patent ideas that sometimes never pan out. Patents that have yet to make an appearance in actual devices include a solar-paneled Macbook with touch capabilities, solar-powered iPad keyboards, touchscreen notebooks and a 3D controllable iPad. The 3D controls are accomplished with air controls, where the placement of your hand above the screen acts as an input too. For example, the Samsung Galaxy S4 currently employs this technology for page swipes and scrolling.
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