Google patents way to open laptop when user approaches

Google has patented a technique that automatically opens a laptop when the user comes close. This has to be done at the right angle, with the user sitting directly in front of the screen. The search giant has not yet applied the technology in its own Pixelbook.

The technology works with a sensor that detects that the user comes close to his laptop, after which the software can operate the hinge and the laptop opens automatically. According to the patent, this can be done via Bluetooth or NFC, for example. This should also be possible with a voice command, such as ‘open laptop’.

Setting the correct angle is done via the cameras on the laptop. They detect where the user’s face is. The patent, approved this week by the US Patent Office, describes ways to do that via the camera on the back of the case, as well as via the front camera above the laptop’s screen. In that case, the device first unfolds itself and then checks which angle is most suitable.

The idea dates back four years and the search giant also filed the patent application at the time. Google will release its first 2-in-1 with the Pixelbook this fall that could benefit from this technology. That device does not have the technology on board, but it remains possible that Google will use the method in a next laptop, claims PatentlyApple, which discovered the patent.