Apple upgrades patent for solar panels embedded in flexible displays

A 2008 patent filed by Apple, has been updated recently, giving us insight into future solar-powered iOS devices, featuring charging panels residing inside flexible touch displays.

The original design describes solar panels embedded into touch-sensitive devices, that did not include touch-screens.

In one version of the document describing the technology, the solar cells are shown as facing the opposite direction in respect to the touch-sensitive surface, which suggests other means for light to reach the sensors, such as fiber optics.

Considering the state of solar power technology today, as well as the intense power requirements of modern mobile devices, it is unlikely that Apple will develop an all-solar iPhone or iPad, however there is a strong chance for solar technology integration with existing battery power.

Flexible touch displays mean that future iPhone’s and iPad’s are likely to feature touch display surfaces all around the chassis, providing screen activity on every side, which in turns boosts power requirements. Apple’s update of its patent is a formidable move towards the next evolution of mobile computing, which we’ll be watching.