The creative minds at Apple have just received a patent to make a new cover for the iPad which will have a flexible display built into the case as well as a keyboard and an extra space for icons.

Virtual Keyboard

The keyboard might have virtual keys that are displayed on the backside of the cover when it’s open to allow the case to be more flexible than a regular keyboard on the cover.

thinkios.com

Touch Audio and Video Controls

Another possible feature that could be on the smart cover is a rear display which would allow you to control the video and audio playing on your iPad when it is propped up. This could be problematic for users who aren’t use to pushing buttons without looking at them, like gamers, and it could cause frustration and make the user constantly turn the iPad to see what they’re hitting.

macrumors.com

External Notifications

When the cover and iPad aren’t in use there will be a place on the cover that will display notifications, calendar reminders, and social media updates from websites like Twitter and Facebook. This is a great idea but it also has a downside because the purpose of a case is to protect the device and now that there’s a display on the outside of the case what protects that from a fall or a bump into a wall.

padgadget.com

Drawing Platform

When the cover is unfolded it also may act as a surface drawing or graphics pad that allows you to use a stylus to sketch, draw, or paint an idea on the iPad in greater detail then before when you had to use your fingers. This feature is able to work on the same place as the keyboard because since the keyboard is virtual you can close out of it when you need the room to draw in a paint app or do anything artistic.

tecca.com

All of these features seem like they could make the new Smart Cover amazing but at the same time it seems like they’re making another thing that we have to worry about breaking on an accidental drop or bump into a wall. Another problem that will come with the Smart Cover is the price because of the technology that is being put into it which may cause it to be a $150 plus case just to cover your iPad. All in all I can’t wait for this to actually come out so I can see what this Smart Case is all about and if it’s really as interesting as that patent claims its going to be.

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Apple Files Patents for the New iPad Smart Cover