By : Don Reisinger
Source : http://www.zdnet.com.au
Category : Patent News
The US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) this week published a patent that Apple has won, related to the way in which a 4G antenna is housed in a laptop. The invention describes how a 4G antenna can be hidden in a "conductive cavity", located behind the upper bezel around the computer's screen.
Apple argues that the placement of the antenna, at the top of the computer, can enhance the likelihood of securing a strong signal; though, the company did leave it open to placing the antenna in other cavities around the device. Patently Apple was first to report on Apple's win.
For years now, rumours have suggested that Apple is at least considering bundling mobile connectivity with its notebook line. Last year, a North Carolina man came across an Apple prototype notebook, featuring an antenna that allowed users to connect to 3G networks. Soon after trying to sell it on eBay, Apple demanded its prototype back, prompting some to wonder if mobile connectivity would, indeed, make its way to its MacBook line.
Although the patent might lend some hope to those who believe Apple will launch 4G connectivity in the MacBook, patents are, by no means, a smoking gun. Major companies, like Apple, file for a host of patents every year, and in many cases never end up using the technology they develop. This could very well end up in that bin.
Beyond that, Patently Apple found that the iPhone maker secured a host of other patents today, including one that relates to touch event processing of web pages in iOS. Apple was also awarded six design patents related to an iPad keyboard dock, the iPad Nano's display module and others.
Source : http://www.zdnet.com.au/apple-patents-4g-macbook-antenna-339337500.htm
