Future MacBook Pro models could get 'deployable feet' — here's what that means

MacBook Pro
(Image credit: Laptop Mag)

What is it with Apple patents and feet these days? First, a patent suggested the tech giant could bring smart socks designed to deliver haptic feedback on your feet while using the Apple VR headset. Now it looks like its MacBook laptops may get "deployable feet" of their own.

A patent application from Apple showcases a new way for MacBook Pro models to keep cool without having to make space for a new thermal system — by lifting the device to increase airflow by using a simple mechanism. 

Apple MacBook Deployable Feet

(Image credit: Patently Apple)

Spotted by Patently Apple (via MacRumors), the patent describes how the so-called "feet" would be used on a MacBook Pro. As the laptop's display hinge would lift, the deployable feet would work at the same time, lifting the base of the MacBook Pro as an efficient way to keep it cool.

The patent also explains other ways in which the deployable feature would work, including using electro-mechanics or being manually deployed by the user. Another figure shows the whole MacBook Pro base lifting, as opposed to using deployable stands. 

MacBook Pro Deployable Feet

(Image credit: Patently Apple)

"Accordingly, it can be desirable for an electronic device to include deployable features that can both increase clearance of the base portion and also improve the efficiency of the internal volume of the base portion, while maintaining a portable and sleek form factor," the patent states.

While some MacBooks have been known to get warm (hence Google reducing Chrome's RAM usage on Macs so they can keep cool), the most recent M1 MacBook Pro models have an active cooling system to keep things nice and frosty. In fact, the laptop tested well below our 95-degree Fahrenheit comfort threshold in our MacBook Pro (13-inch, M1, 2020) review.

We don't expect this feature to arrive with the rumoured 16-inch MacBook Pro, but the new deployable feet could be a sign of the kind of chips we can expect on future MacBooks — the heavy-duty kind.

Patents should be taken with a pinch of salt, as they aren't the most reliable source of foreseeable features on Apple products, but don't rule them out. 

Darragh Murphy
Editor

Darragh Murphy is fascinated by all things bizarre, which usually leads to assorted coverage varying from washing machines designed for AirPods to the mischievous world of cyberattacks. Whether it's connecting Scar from The Lion King to two-factor authentication or turning his love for gadgets into a fabricated rap battle from 8 Mile, he believes there’s always a quirky spin to be made. With a Master’s degree in Magazine Journalism from The University of Sheffield, along with short stints at Kerrang! and Exposed Magazine, Darragh started his career writing about the tech industry at Time Out Dubai and ShortList Dubai, covering everything from the latest iPhone models and Huawei laptops to massive Esports events in the Middle East. Now, he can be found proudly diving into gaming, gadgets, and letting readers know the joys of docking stations for Laptop Mag.