Apple files a new patent for an interactive AirPods case

The tech company Apple introduced the first generation of AirPods back in 2016. Since then, the product has gained several new features. Despite all the upgrades, they are essentially earbuds that need a nearby device to operate. However, the situation might change shortly, as the company has filed a new patent application for the AirPods case with an interactive display.

The company has received a patent for a redesigned AirPods charging case from the US Patent & Trademark Office, notes Patently Apple. As per this information, the case is provided with a display on the front. It is similar to the one presented with Apple Watch. Patent description and images reveal that the display could offer media controls. Besides this, it could even display core apps like Maps, Weather, and notifications. Furthermore, it could even enable users to swap between apps by using Siri commands. Since the images unveil the ability to use Handoff to move music from AirPods to a HomePod.

The document implies that the company has filed for the patent back in September 2022. Thus, indicating that the idea was internally explored by the company. Well, this is not just the only patent filed by the company. The company files several patents, but only a few of them make their way to real devices. However, it is quite interesting to think about an AirPods case provided with a UI-based operating system and a touchscreen.

After more than 20 years, Apple formally discontinued the iPod last year. According to the manufacturer, music is still present in its other products, like the iPhone, HomePod, and of course, AirPods. The iPod might be brought back by giving Apple’s wireless earbuds some essential features. another prospect could be that the cover functions as an iPhone companion accessory. In this way, users who don’t use an Apple Watch would be able to access some basic media controls and other apps without taking the smartphone out of their pockets.

Sadly, there is no information regarding the redesign of the AirPods case by the company. If we go by this rumor, then it will take a long time.