Apple patent explores light-absorbent matte black finish for its devices

Source: ColorWare

It looks like Apple has been giving some thought about having matte black products with a new patent it has filed. Filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, the application is titled "Anodized Part Having a Matte Black Appearance." It outlines the characteristics of a light-absorbent matte black finish that can be used for its devices and the possible manufacturing processes to achieve this. The patent claims this finish can be used on different metals and metal alloys, like aluminum, steel, and titanium.

It has an anodized layer that has "randomly distributed light-absorbing features that are capable of absorbing visible light." The layer contains pores, "where colour particles are infused within the pores." And this results in a surface that has a deep, intense matte black, which is a colour that is generally hard to achieve. Most commercial black products are actually dark gray or blue. 

One issue faced with trying to achieve a truer black is the finish will be more glossy, reflecting more visible light. But if an anodized layer's surface is etched with pores, it can absorb "generally all visible light." That will then deliver a more accurate black finish that doesn't increase glossiness. 

Apple has experimented with matte black finishes before on its iPhone, but it has never done so with a MacBook. If this patent becomes anything, then we might see that change. But again, patent ideas may or may not be used for actual products. 

Source: MacRumors