Future MacBooks to be thinner, more optimised as Apple works on a retractable keyboard, other innovations

Apple has filed patents for technology modules that it looks to bring in the future versions of its MacBook lineup. The patents hint at a retractable keyboard, selective keyboard backlighting and more.

Apple is reportedly working on a new line of MacBooks that will be thinner than their present self. The Cupertino tech giant's efforts were recently spotted in a new patent that also mentions a retractable keyboard on the devices. It is essentially the retractable keyboard that will help Apple design a smaller MacBook in size than the present generation. "While the keys may need to be free to move when the computer is in use (e.g., to allow a user to type), the additional height requirements of the movable keys leads to a larger overall device size," Apple mentions in its patent filed with the US Patent and Trademark Office. In the patent, the keyboard has been mentioned to have a "selectively magnetisable system" under the keys. The system will let the keyboard retract when the said MacBook is closed or "in other modes". To use them, users will simply have to open their MacBook.