Apple's new patent could lead to waterproof iPhones and wearable's in the future.
Apple has filed a new patent application that reveals that the company is actively researching new methods of waterproofing its phones. The new patent could lead to waterproofed Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads and Apple Watches.
Apple new patent at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for "Methods for shielding electronic components from moisture" outlines a process for coating sensitive device components using advanced vapor deposition technology and protecting solder leads with silicone seals.
According to the patent filed by Apple on March 31, 2014 and published on March 5, 2015, “Many electronic devices are susceptible to water damage because they are not fully sealed and include various openings for charging, connecting peripherals, and inputting and outputting audio.”
The patent describes a new hydrophobic/ water-repelling coating to a device’s printed circuit board (PCB) by a plasma assisted chemical vapor deposition (PACVD) process, which charges a substrate’s surface to connect the coating to the charged surface. The patent states that, “The plasma then settles on and adheres to the component, providing a robust, water-resistant, corrosion-resistant protective seal for the component.”
The new technology would allow Apple to protect its devices against moisture without sacrificing on their design. CEO Tim Cook had recently revealed that the Apple Watch itself has splash resistance and can be worn in the shower.
Rivals, Sony and Samsung already use waterproofing methods on their smartphone and tablets that involve sealing of ports. Samsung's Galaxy S5 was water-resistant, while Sony’s Xperia Z3 and Z3 Compact phones are waterproof, as well as the recently introduced Sony Xperia M4 Aqua.
Read: Apple bags patent for virtual reality headset
Source: USPTO
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Silky Malhotra
Silky Malhotra loves learning about new technology, gadgets, and more. When she isn’t writing, she is usually found reading, watching Netflix, gardening, travelling, or trying out new cuisines. View Full Profile
