Microsoft files “Airplane Mode” design patent to protect its Surface tablet design

Microsoft recently filed a design patent in order to protect the design of its Surface Pro and Surface Go devices.

The patent application relates to the “airplane mode” form of the devices, which lets devices have a kickstand that extends and rests on a keyboard that’s been flipped back, and, the “magnetic hinge connection” that allows for that position.

The aim behind the patent application likely is not to protect future technology but to prevent other companies from creating Surface Pro duplicates without Microsoft’s permission. Many tablets have features similar to the Surface devices. Having a patent in the design could allow Microsoft to have a say when companies create tablets similar to Surfaces.

Author: Shannon Skillings