Next-gen iPad may come with proximity sensor, iOS 4.3 beta reveals

[xune]

Next-gen iPad may come with proximity sensor, iOS 4.3 beta reveals
By Vlad Savov posted Jan 19th 2011 10:21PM

Some careful digging in the iOS 4.3 beta has revealed an intriguing new string intended for the iPad's Settings menu. As you can see above, users will be able to toggle a new auto-unlocking feature on their iPad, which would respond to closing and opening of the slate's cover (or case, or sleeve, or whatever). Though the iPad already has an ambient light sensor, the one true way to make this functionality work is by employing a good old proximity sensor, so we can probably pencil that into our ever-expanding list of iPad 2 attributes. Who'd have thought there were so many ways to improve on a magical revolution, eh?

Image/source: Next-gen iPad may come with proximity sensor, iOS 4.3 beta reveals -- Engadget

 

[Hasty]

Like this idea. Open case and instant on. Very Jobsian

 

[donka]

I wonder where this sensor would sit. If in the top bezel then it may cause issues when holding the iPad in landscape depending on how you grasp your device e.g. thumbs either side....

 

[Hasty]

Knowing apple they'll test it intensively first.
As an on switch fine, on/off more problematical, but the off button is second nature now.