Apple has received a patent related to placing pressure sensors in touchscreens to measure the amount of force a finger applies to the display. The patent would call for three sensors to to be stacked below the screen's surface at varying points or in the corners of the bezels in order to more effectively recognize gesture and intentions. So what would be the difference between an iPad now and one with pressure sensitivity?
For starters, it could cut down on accidental touches. Were someone to lightly touch an area of the screen while repositioning or holding a device, Apple could use the pressure points to calculate the amount of force and distinguish between intentional and unintentional taps. It could also be used for gaming. Imagine playing a football game and kicking or throwing harder based on the amount of pressure applied. Of course, you can then suggest that drawing might be an option and shading or coloring would be more effective with pressure sensitivity.
Bloomberg reported last year that Apple was working on this technology and the patent confirms that to be true. Don't expect to see this in the next iPhone, but it's something that may show up in future iOS device launches beyond 2015.
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