Well, it's about time! Apple seems not to want to be left behind by the competion because speculations seem to point out that they may just be developing its very own line of UMPCs. These speculations were fuelled by the fact that Apple submitted their latest patent applications which seems to be concepts for their very own origamis. The more recent patent applications reveal what looks like a design for 'virtual keys of a touch screen keyboard' (left pic). As you can see, it seems that this keyboard is going to be used not for Apple notebooks but for something smaller and more portable (which is a UMPC).

In another application dated February 2, 2006, a screen (right pic) that is described as suitable for 'gestures for touch-sensitive input devices' was revealed. There was also a mention of a timeless Apple fixture- the scroll wheel (a virtual one for this matter) which will also grace the alleged Apple UMPC. Aside from this, a multipoint sensing device was also apparently present. This feature will enable the user to use several fingers to manipulate images on screen. Whether this screen is for the future Apple UMPC or the rumored next generation iPod is still a mystery to spectators and aficionados. All we can do is wait anxiously for new developments from the Steve Jobs camp.