Microsoft's Surface Pro Hybrid could have a slimmer keyboard (which, by extension, should also be lighter), or at least a recently revealed patent suggests this possibility.
The patent was published in early August and refers to a "discreet keyboard", which means thinner keys and therefore a thinner keyboard. This is a generic 'computing device', although the main image accompanying the documentation is very similar to a Surface Pro (which is certainly positioned by the keyboard hinge).
Microsoft describes several methods of thinning keys compared to a conventional scissor switch design, with considerable mention of the possibility of using a metal alloy for the dome or key switch, which would be "advantageous to provide the user with a adequate tactile feedback. " a discrete input device ".
The patent also mentions the metallic nature of the key, which would be an additional advantage in terms of thinness, and the cap could include a noise attenuation layer, which would be "particularly advantageous when the cap is made of 39, a metallic composition." .
When using a metal entry key, the key thinning can reach less than 0.1mm, which is thinner than the quoted measurements for an alternative material such as thermoplastic (which is also discussed in the document).
Of course, the average user is not likely to worry about technicalities behind the scenes, as long as the keyboard is thinner and maintains a pleasant typing action. And, of course, the main challenge is reducing costs without losing that satisfying writing experience.
As with patents, the innovations discussed here may be concepts that Microsoft is currently considering, but may never be successful.
That said, the thinning of the Surface Pro is probably a crucial consideration. In fact, Microsoft has already thought of ways to make the Type Cover stapler, including direct integration of the touchpad into the keyboard circuit board.
Also, a thinner type of cover would be a significant change, because it obviously increases portability and gives the impression that the device is of better quality.
Not that the current version of the Surface Pro 6 type cover (type cover) is particularly thick, in fact it is already fitted, but the overall camera is a bit heavy. And an adjustable keyboard could help lighten the weight a bit, though it should be noted that it's more of a hybrid case with a solid, solid feel and build quality, rather than a lack of weight. To be robust as such.
It would also be nice to work with the keyboard to reduce the weight of the hybrid, as this will not affect the internal components of the tablet part of the device, such as the battery (we do not want no less life, of course).
Via recent Windows