“While Apple has yet to release a major product made from Liquidmetal stock — aside from a SIM ejector tool — the company is still actively researching methods of producing large format amorphous alloy parts, suggesting the material could one day see use in a shipping device,” Mikey Campbell reports for AppleInsider.
“A pair of Apple patents published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on Tuesday describe methods of melting bulk amorphous alloys and applying the material to casts, either by itself or in conjunction with another metal,” Campbell reports. “It is impossible to draw conclusions about Apple’s plans from today’s patents, but the company is obviously interested in implementing amorphous alloys into its product lineup either as a replacement for existing metal parts or as the basis of an entirely new product.”
“Apple in June renewed its exclusive license to Liquidmetal technology, including patents, for a full year, extending a deal initially struck in 2010. With the next iPhone chassis rumored to be crafted from 7000 series aluminum, however, a BMG device might to be some ways off,” Campbell reports. “One possible Liquidmetal application is Apple Watch, which debuted in aluminum, stainless steel and solid gold. A report in March said Apple was looking into different casing materials for a second-generation version set for announcement this fall or early next year, though BMG was not specifically mentioned as a potential candidate. ”
Much more, including Apple’s patent application illustrations and diagrams, in the full article here.
MacDailyNews Take: Apple Watch 2? 3?” iPhone 7? 8?
SEE ALSO:
The Turing Phone is not made out of Liquidmetal – July 15, 2015
Why does Apple keep extending their partnership with Liquidmetal? – June 25, 2015
Apple extends Liquidmetal exclusivity deal through February 2016 – June 23, 2015
Two new Liquidmetal patent filings from Apple revealed; list watch and jewelry among potential uses – April 23, 2015
Liquidmetal’s Apple alliance yet to bear fruit – September 30, 2014
Apple’s new Liquidmetal-related patent sparks speculation – July 7, 2014
Apple patents method for embedding sapphire displays in LiquidMetal device chassis – May 27, 2014
Liquidmetal-Visser agreement paves the way for more rapid adoption of amorphous metal manufacturing – May 21, 2014
Apple extends Liquidmetal exclusivity deal through February 2015 – May 21, 2014
Apple take the long view which is why its products work so well.
It could be years before liquid metal is used for any major part of a product. And that’s okay. They will use it when it fits the need.
The 7 in iPhone 7 sure looks a lot like the L in Liquidmetal.
7iquidmetal?