The next iPad could dock sideways and have a 'smart bezel', according to patent illustrations discovered in China. If genuine, the illustrations found by Patently Apple give a hint of what's in store for the next generation of Apple's tablet.
The first illustration reveals a second dock connector on the left side of the iPad, so you can dock the device in landscape mode, as well as portrait.
It's unclear what the second illustration's 'smart bezel' feature might be, but, whatever it is, it's located in the bottom left corner of the tablet. It could be some kind of touch-sensitive area, perhaps opening apps or giving quick access to certain features.
Apple has previously secured patents in the US for a touch-sensitive bezel that could alter volume, zoom in on maps or control games.
What do you think the smart bezel could be, and what features would you like to see in the next iPad?
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Comments 4
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anonymous 27 September, 2010 14:17
Is it not just a highlight to show that the side material is the same as the face i.e. glass?
Anonymous 27 September, 2010 14:36
antenna? lol!
Anonymous 27 September, 2010 20:08
I think the smart bezel is the part of the iPad where you put your thumb to block the signal. It was a hit on the iPhone 4!
Anonymous 28 September, 2010 11:43
definately agree with the comments above!
somewhere you have to press and hold to use the ipad but is also where you block the signal!
Huge hit on the iphone 4!