Microsoft Tries To Patent Multiple, Interchangeable Second Devices On Smartphones

Another interesting Microsoft patent application got published today. The whole idea of this patent is to have secondary devices which can be attached and detached from a smartphone. It will function appropriately in both the modes. For example, a keyboard device can be used for the smartphone when attached to it, when detached it can act as a remote control for a TV, etc.

Abstract:

MOBILE COMMUNICATION DEVICE HAVING MULTIPLE, INTERCHANGEABLE SECOND DEVICES:

A mobile communication device comprises a first device with a first display and multiple second devices. The second devices are releasably attachable to the first device and are interchangeable with each other. The mobile device can operate as a mobile cell phone with one or more second devices operable as a mobile phone hand set. The second devices can comprise one or more game controllers, batteries, physical keyboards and/or mobile phone handsets with a display. In a detached configuration, the first device is separated from the second devices and can wirelessly communicate with one or more of the detached second devices. In a three device configuration, the first device can send commands, control signals or content to one or more external devices in addition to the second devices.

USPTO