
While the best MacBooks on the market currently represent the pinnacle of Apple's computing ingenuity, it may not be that way for long. That's because some patents have been unearthed which show off a revolutionary modular MacBook concept.
Images taken from the filing show off the idea pretty conclusively. Users can interchange different modules to build the device they need. The ones shown include a fairly traditional keyboard and screen configuration, a dual screen option, and even more unusual pairings like an extra screen beneath the keyboard for drawing.
While still clearly in a very early stage, it's an exciting prospect. As someone who is very invested in the wider Apple ecosystem, it can be frustrating. Sure, the MacBook Air covers almost everything I could ever want, but what about those odd occasions when I need to sign something or sketch out an idea?
Well, that needs an iPad, with an accompanying Apple Pencil if you want the best experience. The trouble is, that might only ever be needed for those scenarios, leaving it relatively unused at other times.
With a modular system, you could attach a screen to your device to sign that document or add that sketch, and then detach it to carry on working as normal. It could even be possible to use that screen as a second monitor when it isn't acting as a digital notepad, adding even more usefulness.
There's no indication of when – or, indeed, if – this will hit the market. Right now, with the patent only recently filed, it could be a long way off. And it might never see the light of day at all. Big companies like Apple tend to claim patents for anything and everything they are working on. It's no guarantee of a future device.
Personally, I hope this one does make it to market. If the whole thing can be given the classic Apple design and build quality, it could be a really spectacular device. Even simple things like being able to detach your laptop screen once you get to your desk could make a difference. You could prop that up on a stand at a better height, but keep the keyboard in the correct place at the same time.
Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
For now, though, we'll just have to wait and see what comes in the future.

Sam is an award-winning journalist with over six years of experience across print and digital media. As T3’s Senior Staff Writer, Sam covers everything from new phones and EVs to luxury watches and fragrances. Working across a range of different social media platforms alongside his written work, Sam is a familiar face for fans of T3. When he’s not reviewing snazzy products or hunting for stellar deals, Sam enjoys football, analog photography and writing music.
-
I must admit, if the iPhone 17 Air is this thin I'd never stop worrying
Newly leaked images show an iPhone that's so slim I'd be concerned about breaking it
-
Apple's new content curation service is about as Apple as it gets
The new Snapshot section is very pretty, but it's also missing something pretty important
-
Samsung's flagship phones will reportedly maintain one key advantage over iPhone
Apple is said to be struggling to match Samsung in a specific tech area
-
New Apple Vision Pro tipped for early 2026, but might not be what you expect
The second generation Vision Pro may not be the game-changing model you're hoping for
-
If the iPhone 17 Pro adds these 4 new features I'm already sold
Apple needs to make a big swing
-
Apple's Severance computer may have been a joke, but the keyboard is coming for real
Tell us where we can sign up!
-
Apple Watch is set to get Apple Intelligence this year, but only with a little help from a friend
Bring on watchOS 12
-
iPad reportedly getting major makeover and your current model could benefit too
Apple is said to be making a change that iPad power users have been wanting for years