Today the US Patent & Trademark Office published a patent application from Apple that relates to a possible future version of their iPad Magic Keyboard accessory having a built-in charging pad on its backside that could recharge other devices like an iPhone, Apple Watch or AirPods case. The devices would be held in place using magnets.

Apple's invention covers a wireless power system that includes a wireless power transmitting device. The wireless power transmitting device wirelessly transmits power to one or more multiple wireless power receiving devices. Power for the wireless power transmissions is received from external equipment or is harvested from one of the wireless power receiving devices. If desired, power for the wireless power transmissions may be stored in an optional internal battery.

Apple's patent FIG. 10 below illustrates a possible future Magic Keyboard device for iPad that has a back portion that could be used to recharge other devices such an iPhone, Apple Watch, AirPods case and more.

According to Apple, the wireless power transmitting device has a housing. Coils for transmitting and/or receiving wireless power and other wireless power circuitry are housed within the housing. Magnets may also be housed within the housing. During charging operations, the magnets may be used to hold the wireless power receiving devices in place in alignment with the coils.

An illustrative wireless power system (wireless charging system) is shown in Apple's patent FIG. 1 above.

A wired power port in the power is configured to couple to a cable providing wired power. An optional wireless power receiving coil and optional battery can be used to receive wireless power and store power.

For more details, review Apple's patent application number 20210265861. This is a utility patent and not a design patent, so the actually look of the device will likely be dramatically different. Today's patent application is simply conveying the concept of a future Magic Keyboard with built-in charging pad.

Considering that this is a patent application, the timing of such a product to market is unknown at this time.