Patent reveals system that would let iPhone users attach lenses to their device

Just days after leaked images suggested Apple’s iPhone 6 will have a protruding camera, a patent has been issued giving an insight into what this feature may be used for. The patent, initially filed in 2012, describes a bayonet mount system for an iPhone camera. The system is similar to that currently used on SLR cameras and lets photographers attach and remove interchangeable lenses using a twist and lock motion. Bayonet connectors are also the standard light bulb fitting in the United Kingdom, Australia, India and other countries. According to the Apple patent: 'it may be desirable to couple a lens to a portable electronic device including a camera. ‘The camera may not include optical zoom functionality, wide angle capability, or certain filters, and hence the addition of an accessory device may be desirable.' It continued that current lens accessory devices and attachment options for phones have been ‘unsatisfactory’, such as screw mount systems. Apple said screw mount systems can be bulky and increase in the size of the phone, and this may be ‘undesirable to a consumer.’ The patent also explained a magnetic connection may be another option, but didn't feel this was secure enough when walking or holding the device. ‘Additionally, if the magnetic ring is improperly aligned with respect to the camera, the view through the lens may be obstructed or distorted,’ said the patent. Apple’s solution is a bayonet attachment that is functional, but takes up the least amount of space on the device. The mount would be built-in to the iPhone’s rear-facing camera bezel, which would protrude marginally above the case. Various lenses with bayonet-style connectors would then be attached and locked into place. To prevent damage to the lens, if the phone is dropped for example, Apple continued that the mount could be fixed on a ‘ramped surface’. This would allow the lens to detach from the device without twisting, if the lens is hit from a certain angle. Images posted to Chinese social network Weiboearlier this week purporting to show the next Apple device are thought to have been leaked by an anonymous insider working at Apple supplier Foxconn. Although the images are blurry, they appear to show a rounded design and a protruding camera, similar to those seen on the iPod touch. Current iPhone models feature cameras that sit flush the with rear casing. Alternatively, the models shown in the pictures could be the next generation of Apple's MP3 player. There are already detachable lenses that work with iPhone devices, such as the Olloclip. This attachment comes with four lenses that create a range of photo effects including fisheye and wide-angle, plus 10x and 15x macro zoom. Each lens can be used interchangeably, simply by screwing them on and off, and the whole system costs £69.99.