Apple's patent applications always generate a lot of interest as they are one of the few windows we have into the company's research and development labs. Some patent applications are more interesting or relevant than others, but we knew this latest one would generate some buzz as it actually depicts an old-style iMac with a touch screen (above).
This Patent application is called Shape Detecting Input Device and was originally submitted in 2004 with a continuation published today. It proposes that a touch screen could be used not only as a pointer/input device but also a shape recognition device to essentially take the place of a key/lock system. For example, a manager at a retail store could simply place a specially imprinted object on the screen to verify his/her identity. The lock/key angle isn't even as interesting as the fact that Apple assumes that a computer screen would come with a touch sensitive input.
Apple's been rumored to be working on multi-touch displays and even one report which claimed a 22" touchscreen iMac was due later this year. Having been originally published in 2004, it's interesting to see how long Apple's been considering the use of touch screens on their desktop computers. This continuation application was filed in October 2009.
Monday November 2, 2026 1:22 am PST by Tim Hardwick
Apple is releasing five new products this Friday, November 6, following pre-orders that opened last week, including its first touchscreen MacBook Pro models.
The following new products will be available from Friday:
iPad mini with OLED display and A20 Pro chip
iMac with M6 chip
14-inch MacBook Pro with M6 chip
14-inch MacBook Pro with OLED touchscreen
16-inch MacBook Pro with OLED...
Monday November 2, 2026 7:27 am PST by Tim Hardwick
Apple's busiest season isn't over yet. Far from it. With two hardware launch dates still to come in November, plus software updates and new smart home accessories running into December, there's more on the way from Apple before the end of 2026, so be sure to stick around.
Below, we've rounded up what's still coming, along with one date in particular that's worth watching if you're a holiday...
Sunday November 1, 2026 7:27 am PST by Joe Rossignol
After announcing a new iPad mini with an OLED display earlier this month, Apple plans to release new iPad Air, iPad Pro, and entry-level iPad models in the first half of 2027, according to the latest word from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.
In his Power On newsletter today, Gurman said the next iPad Air will also feature an OLED display, while he expects the next iPad Pro to be equipped with a...
