Apple's Patent Pipeline Shows What to Expect

With iPhone 4 and iPad selling like crazy, you might think Apple's laptop research may be taking a back seat. Think again. Here are some of the patent filings related to Mac, the ultimate Apple experience:

• Solar powered computers
• Touch-screen desktops
• Built-in projector which lets you display video on a wall
• Seamless laptop with invisible buttons, keyboards and trackpad
• Screen camera that detects your presence and powers up the computer as soon as you approach it

As Apple surpasses Microsoft in market capitalization - a significant milestone - it is good to see its focus on innovative R & D which will make great user experiences.