In recent times, Apple has lost its reputation as an innovator after getting involved in several copyright infringement lawsuits. However, it looks as though the company is going back to what it does best.
Reports confirm that the Cupertino-based company has just been granted a patent for what promises to be the smartphone industry's next big advancement- an integrated touch and solar sensor panel. This means that you're next iPhone could be solar powered.
As surprising as its sounds, the modern-day battery is one of technology's biggest barriers when advancement is concerned. Engineers are barred from packing gadgets with powerful hardware and technology, fearing that the device's battery might not last long enough to meet the needs of the everyday consumer. Solar-powered smart phones could be the answer to this problem, allowing phones to have better screens, richer resolutions, more powerful wireless technology and other elements that are power hungry.
We've seen solar power used in buildings, watches and even calculators. However, the cell phone domain has remained untouched by the technology.
The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office granted Apple patent number 8,368,654 titled "Integrated touch sensor and solar assembly." However, it should be noted that Apple's take at solar energy for phones is anything but conventional, since the solar touch-panel can simultaneously capture and convert light energy while sensing touch gestures.
If this technology does make it to cell phones sometime soon, Apple could be back on the smartphone throne.
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June 12, 2026 17:14 ET Major central bank action was the focus this week in economic news. The European Central Bank became the first major central bank to move in response to the rising inflationary pressures in the backdrop of the conflict in the Middle East. In North America, the U.S. inflation and trade data as well as Canada’s central bank decision gained attention. The Chinese trade data was the main news in Asia.