Microsoft dual-screen device patent ditches volume buttons for virtual controls

Dual-screen PCs feel like they're simply around the corner, and adding fuel to that speculation is a raft of patents Microsoft has been granted in contempo years. Recently, another such patent was spotted past Obviously Mobile (via MSPU), describing a dual-screen device that would ditch physical volume buttons for virtual controls.

The elimination of physical volume rockers is somewhat notable because it would be a major shift from how smartphones and tablets currently operate. The figures included with the patent are where things go a little more interesting, however. We're shown the device inseveral unlike configurations, ranging from the displays positioned side-by-side to variations on how the flexible hinge is folded. In one case, the displays are folded dorsum on one another, with ane on each side. Another shows them closed on pinnacle of i another.

Further in the figures, Microsoft indicates that the displays tin can be running two different programs at one time. In this example, a music app is on the lft screen while a game occupies the right screen. There are on-screen audio controls that permit you to adjust the volume and backdrop of the sound being projected.

Microsoft applied for this patent in June of 2022 and it was granted in July of 2022.

Microsoft is said to be working on a dual-screen Surface device codenamed "Centaurus." The visitor was reported to have even shown the device off to employees at a contempo visitor meeting. Reporting indicates Microsoft has been working on Centaurus for about ii years and that it could debut this autumn running a version of Windows Cadre OS.

Given that we've seen a number of dual-screen PC prototypes pop up in recent years, it's not surprising Microsoft is at least working on one of its own. Whether this patent gives us a glimpse at some of what we can expect, nevertheless, is up in the air. Companies, especially Microsoft, patent things all of the time that never see the light of 24-hour interval.

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