Guide Note

On April 24, 2008 Apple filed a patent for installing a type of solar cell in handhold, portable, devices like the iPhone and iPod.

The technology would allow Apple to place the solar panels beneath the touch screen. This would solve the problem of fitting the solar cells on a small device, a problem that has plagued efforts to make solar powered music players and cellphones in the past.

Skeptics have pointed out that, unlike wristwatches and calculators, an iPhone requires a significant amount of power to operate. They also point out that devices like cellphones spend most of their time in pockets and bags, out of the reach of the sun.

Still, the solar cells would, at least, extend the battery life of portable devices and could possibly allow them to become totally wireless, eliminating the need for even a power cord.

Fast Facts

1. Apple has filed a patent for "Solar Cells on Portable Devices"
2. Filed on April 24, 2008
3. Application number: 0080094025
4. Solar cells would be placed on layers beneath the touch screen
5. Could extend the battery life of devices