14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft could be working on major upgrades for the Surface Pen that would completely overhaul this accessory on a future-generation Surface Pro.
A patent discovered by Patently Apple details several improvements that Microsoft has been working on for the Surface Pen, some of which could make the classic mouse redundant on a device like the Surface Pro.
For example, the patent shows that the Surface Pen could be used to write on the wrist rest area of the Surface Type Cover, making it easier to interact with content on the screen.
Right now, the Surface Pen can be used to write only on the screen of the Surface, so technically, it would no longer be necessary to get closer to the display for this task. This is obviously a more convenient approach especially for quick notes that you need to make with a stylus, such as signing a document, for example.
Additionally, the Surface Pen can be used for more accurate scrolling that isn’t possible with the touchpad, like quick edits for a photo or anything that requires more precise tweaks.
Replacing a mouse for simple things
At the same time, the patent details how the Surface Pen can be used for controlling a presentation with a wireless connection to the Surface device. While this isn’t a new idea, Microsoft details a system that uses an optical sensor to even allow the Surface Pen to be used for writing regardless of the surface.
This is without a doubt an idea that could further expand the capabilities of Microsoft’s Surface lineup, but at the same time, it can also make the Surface Pen itself a device that you simply need to have.
Furthermore, by replacing certain features of the classic mouse, Microsoft can score extra in terms of portability and usability, as Surface owners would no longer have to carry a mouse with them whenever they leave the office.
As with everything in patent stage, however, there’s no living proof just yet that Microsoft wants to push this system to mass production, albeit it’s pretty clear that such an idea would really come in handy to many users.