Apple has taken out a patent on a new type monitor that combines display functions with those of a camera.

Thousands of microscopic sensors are placed between liquid crystal display cells in the screen. Like an insect's eye, each sensor receives its own small, individual image. Essentially, there will be one sensor for each LCC. By giving individual cells different focal lengths, the device could have a zoom function as well. These images would be combined into a single large image with software code.

This invention has great implications for videoconferencing. By adding PDA and cell phone functions, the need for several different devices will be eliminated.