• Apple filed a patent application for a new laser technology (HCSEL) in mid-July
• It is not yet clear how the new lasers will be used
• Experts see potential in various areas – including for the Apple Watch
HCSEL is particularly interesting for biometric functions
A patent application filed by Apple in mid-July suggests that future iPhones could come with Horizontal Cavity Surface-Emitting Lasers (HCSEL). As FindBiometrics reports, Apple could use this to improve its biometric functions: Vertical Cavity Sorfce-Emitting Lasers (VCSEL) and Edge Emitting Lasers (EEL) are currently used in iPhones, HCSEL represents a combination of both technologies.
The Patently Apple website states that Apple could also use HCSEL to develop new VR gaming methods in the future or measure fine dust pollution in combination with a photodetector. Integration into the camera is also conceivable.
A second patent also suggests biometric functions for future Apple Watches
Not only iPhones, but also Apple Watches could soon be equipped with HCSEL. In the patent filing, Apple writes, “Health and fitness data can be used to provide insights into a user’s overall well-being, or it can be used as positive feedback for individuals using the technology for their wellness goals.”
The HCSEL patent isn’t the only recent indication that Apple may soon be adding biometrics to an Apple Watch. According to reports, the company recently applied for a patent for a hidden touch ID for mobile devices such as Apple Watches.
Apple’s plans with HCSEL are not yet known
In an email to the information portal Lifewire, Mike Feibus from FeibusTech explains his assessment of Apple’s plans with HCSEL: The company is trying to protect its devices with ever-improving lasers so well that everything can be safely stored on them in the future – even patient files and similarly sensitive data. The aim is to make the devices indispensable and secure an even better position on the market.
Dimitri Williams, a professor at USC Annenberg, on the other hand, emphasizes that the new technology could open up endless possibilities for creative developers. With HCSEL it could be possible to make the user experience much more comprehensive and exciting. This is where Williams sees the greatest potential in the new lasers.
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