After introducing 3D Touch with the iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus, Apple has filed a new patent, which could make the touchscreens even smarter. Apple seems to have developed a new display technology that can detect hovering fingers for special gestures. Also Read - Apple Watch helped save a kidnapped woman in the US, here's how
Also Read - 5 tips to keep in mind before buying a second-hand smartphoneThe patent proximity and multi-touch sensor detection and demodulation, describes ways in which proximity sensors or photodiodes can be used for detecting fingers that hover above a display s surface. Published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, it was first spotted by AppleInsider. Also Read - iPhone 12 series sells with discounts up to Rs 16,000 at Maple stores: How to avail the offers
Like current iOS devices, the invention includes in part a capacitive sensing element disposed throughout an LCD display with multiple piggybacked proximity sensors. This hybrid solution provides a more complete image of touch inputs by delivering hover gesture detection, AppleInsider explains.
According to Apple, combining the capacitive sensor with photodiodes and infrared LEDs could help in detecting fingers that are in the display s close proximity. This can be done by registering the light bouncing off them. Also, by detecting the amount of light, it can differentiate between multiple and individual fingers, and also the entire palm.
In the patent, Apple mentions that this technology can be used on future iPhones, iPads and even on Macs. That s not all; with hover gestures, users can interact with virtual buttons onscreen. For instance, you could switch between apps by simply swiping your palm over the screen. While Apple s patent seems promising, there is no guarantee that it would see the light of the day.
It is important to point out that Samsung has already implemented a similar technology it called Air View on some Galaxy-series smartphones. It allows users to hover their fingers over messages and emails to preview them. Similarly, in the Note-series, users can carry out the same using the S Pen.
This joins other list of patents from Apple such as dual-camera setup for DSLR like photos, long-distance wireless charging capabilities and tracking iPhones even when switched off among others.
