New Microsoft patent suggests that thinner Surface Type covers are on the way

Microsoft could be working on making its various Surface Type covers even thinner. According to a new Microsoft patent spotted by German blog Windows United (via The Verge), future versions of the detachable keyboards could shed some thickness and weight by integrating the trackpad directly into the circuit board of the detachable keyboard.

In the patent description, Microsoft explains that this is all about “not requiring additional space and additional components within a device chassis for a separate touch.”

Microsoft’s detachable Surface keyboards evolved quite a lot over the years, with the Type Cover for the Surface Pro 3 (the first 12” inch Surface tablet) representing a major shift with a much larger trackpad. Since then, we’ve seen iterative updates such as the new Alcantara finish, but this new patent suggests that it could be time for a more significant refresh.

Back in June, ZDNet reported that a “heavily redesigned” Surface Pro could be launching in mid-2019. It has been said that the new tablet may feature more rounded corners like the Surface Go, as well as an USB-C port, and you can probably expect a new detachable keyboard to match the new design. Let us know in the comments what you would like to see being improved in the new Type Covers.