Apple patents multitouch display that lets users push virtual buttons

The 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.

3D Touch was the headline feature on the iPhone 6S and iPhone 6S Plus with the aim to change how you interact with your phone and give you more options – and the latest patent from Apple suggests it wants to go further.

Apple has been granted a patent that could let users push virtual buttons in thin air.

In addition to detection of touching events, the detection of fingers, palms or other objects hovering near the touch panel is desirable because it can enable the computing system to perform certain functions without necessitating actual contact with the touch panel.

The technology involves an LCD display with a number of proximity sensors riding on it, ready to sense close-by input without the need of touch. “This hybrid solution provides a more complete “image” of touch inputs by delivering hover gesture detection”, AppleInsider explains.

To achieve this, Apple has used proximity sensors that have infrared LEDs along with photodiodes, which detect lights and alter electric currents accordingly. This can be done by registering the light bouncing off them.

As with any filed patent, the technology is unlikely to appear in any product soon, if at all, especially given that Apple only recently introduced 3D Touch support and is still actively encouraging app developers to make more use of the feature.

The hovering technology will combine with the multi-touch functions that are already available on Apple’s newest iPhone to create all kinds of possibilities for using its devices. While Apple’s patent seems promising, there is no guarantee that it would see the light of the day. It allows users to hover their fingers over messages and emails to preview them.