Apple patented a keyboard with a built-in computer that plugs into any display

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Apple might be reimagining what a Mac looks like; if this newly published patent is anything to go by. In it, Apple patented a keyboard with a Mac inside it, making it a self-contained device.

First noticed by Patently Apple, the Mac looks like an Apple Magic Keyboard. Apple stuffed a whole computer into a keyboard. Isn’t that cool?

I mean, most computers are bulky, blocky affairs. Even Apple’s own Mac mini isn’t the smallest of things, and you still need to connect a keyboard and mouse to it for use.

Apple’s new patent even mentions putting a trackpad onto the keyboard, so you wouldn’t need any external accessories.

All you’d need is an external display, and almost anywhere you go has a TV with an HDMI input to serve that need.

The other thing? This device probably wasn’t possible before Apple silicon, like the M1 chip. That small form factor to fit inside a keyboard needs a low-power processor to keep thermals in check.

I’m all for this newly patented keyboard from Apple. Yes, I know it’s just an idea at this stage, and might not make it to market. It’s not the first time Apple has made a computer inside a keyboard though.

The Apple IIc that I learned to use a computer on was technically the same form factor; except it was the size of a suitcase and weighed a ton (relative terms, remember I was eight at the time). I’d love to revisit my computing roots with a smaller, computer-in-keyboard Mac.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Joe Rice-Jones

Maker, meme-r, and unabashed geek with nearly half a decade of blogging experience at KnowTechie, SlashGear and XDA Developers. If it runs on electricity (or even if it doesn't), Joe probably has one around his office somewhere, with particular focus in gadgetry and handheld gaming. Shoot him an email at joe@knowtechie.com.