Apple Patent Leak: Radical Changes to MacBook Design Revealed

According to a recently leaked patent, the upcoming MacBooks may include unexpected features such as additional cameras and a completely revamped display.

Despite its reputation for incremental updates, Apple has rarely made significant changes to the design of its key products such as iPhones and MacBooks. However, a recently filed patent indicates that the next MacBook could feature a bold new look.

According to a patent filed by Apple and discovered by iMore, a future MacBook may have a convertible design and feature up to four rear camera sensors.

The patent outlines a base section with input elements and a rotating display section, which includes aperture and internal volume controls.

It is intriguing to note that one of the designs depicted in the patent document indicates that Apple is experimenting with various camera modules for the MacBook. One proposed module is equipped with four sensors, including LiDAR, infrared, time-of-flight cameras, and others.

A few of these sketches show a camera module that sits flush with the rear panel, while others feature a more prominent one that is similar to iPhone designs.

Apple MacBook Pro

In addition, Apple presents the concept of a removable camera module that can be positioned on either the back or front of the laptop. This design incorporates a hinge assembly that enables the base and display portions to pivot or rotate in relation to each other.

In April 2022, Apple submitted this patent which highlights their efforts to explore new designs and features for one of their top-selling products. However, Apple has already shifted their focus towards lifestyle rather than features with the release of the OLED iPad Pro and the rumored iPhone 17 Slim.

Despite the possibility that Apple may be working on a MacBook refresh and considering implementing these designs, there is no assurance that we will see any of these features in the upcoming MacBooks. If they do incorporate these changes, it could potentially be the most significant update to MacBooks in quite some time.