Several Apple patent applications have been newly revealed this week by the US Patent and Trademark Office, covering a wide range of technologies. One of the most notable tackles parking, a weakspot of many GPS apps, including those available for the iPhone. A proposed Apple system would direct people to the cheapest and most convenient parking near their destination, taking into account factors like the hours spots officially become available.

A device like a handheld could also incorporate parking into travel times, adding walking figures on top of initial drive times. The technology could conceivably be integrated into the Maps app for the iPhone and iPod touch, but would likely require the help of Google, which supplies all map content. Simplified parking data is not available through current Google services.

Apple is also exploring the concept of more elaborate kinematic input on controllers. Whereas the Magic Mouse can detect touch gestures on its back, a theoretical future controller could be made to recognize tilting, sliding, nudging, brushing and scooping motions. Users could also push down with varying amounts of pressure, resulting in different levels of input.

A final patent application would see solar cells built into iPhones and iPods, charging the devices whenever needed and possible. Cells could be built into both the front and back of a handheld, or even baked directly into rigid surfaces, turning an entire case into a charger. Circuitry would adjust power to extend battery life, or throw more focus on solar energy.