So far, a waterproof MacBook has only been a dream, but Apple is now getting a lot closer to it. Recently published documents prove what the US manufacturer is working on in secret.

MacBook Pro 2019

Waterproof iPhones and Apple Watches have long ceased to be a dream, but a MacBook shouldn’t be exposed to damp water. However, this could change in the future, for one now patent that became known reveals Apple’s secret plans.

Work in progress at Apple: MacBook with waterproof hinge

According to them, Apple is already working on one waterproof hinge for MacBook. Away from the keyboard, one of the most sensitive points for moisture penetration and thus a gateway for potential water damage. And how does Apple intend to do this? In a nutshell: The iPhone manufacturer is planning to use hydrophobic (water-repellent) materials for this. These are intended to be used around the flexible part of a Mac and the cables that connect the screen to the keyboard.

With the iPhone it was allowed to be a bit “wetter” from version 7, but see for yourself in the video:

A MacBook protected in this way would not be 100% waterproof, but a lot of damage could certainly be avoided. In the end, this lowers costs and should please customers. After all a first, important step towards a real, waterproof MacBook. Until this is available, Apple still has to think about solutions for the keyboard and the interfaces of the device.

Reading tip

Sven Kaulfuss09/26/2020

Will we see the first devices as early as 2021?

Good to know: The patent that has now been discovered was filed by Apple in August 2019. So it is quite possible that we have a Implementation in practice will already be seen in the upcoming MacBook Pros with 14- and 16-inch displays. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee. Patents have the fact that, although they demonstrate what is feasible, it is not always implemented in practice. Nevertheless: We should pay attention to this detail when demonstrating the new devices in the autumn.