Even though many iOS users were hoping Apple would kill the Home button, it seems like the company is interested in redesigning the Home button using Liquidmetal.
The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office granted Apple a series of new patents, including one that describes possible uses of the new material on iPhones and iPads. This material is known for a number of unique properties, such has high strength, corrosion resistance, light weight, and malleability.
Interestingly enough, this is not the first time Liquidmetal appeared in Apple’s patent filings since the iPhone maker has annually renewed its exclusive rights to use this material since 2010. However, it is still unknown how and if this material is going to be used.
We’ve seen rumors telling us that Apple will use Liquidmetal for the iPhone SIM Tool. Still, the company hasn’t managed to find a suitable way to produce an iPhone with Liquidmetal components.
The latest patent explains how Liquidmetal could be used to build a new Home button, as well as why this material is perfect for such function. As you are aware of, a pressure sensitive Home button transforms when pressed, but then it returns to its normal shape when you remove your finger. Liquidmetal retains its elasticity, so it could be used to build a more quality Home button that doesn’t wear off.
As we reported earlier, the company is expected to announce the rumored iPhone SE and iPhone 7, as well as the new 9.7-inch iPad Pro. However, it seems unlikely that we will see Liquidmetal on any of these devices.
You can head over to the United States Patent No. 9,279,733 page to see Apple’s invention in more detail.
