iPhone 5 To Offer Remote Computing?

Credit: Apple

We have been hearing rumors about the design upgrade that iPhone 5 will get over its predecessor. But Apple seems to have grander plans for the device. The inclusion of a NFC chip in iPhone 5 will not only enable e-wallet transactions on the device, it could enable iPhone owners to make any Mac their own. We are talking about remote computing on steroids. According to multiple sources, Apple is working on near field communication technology for its computers and iPhone 5. iPhone 5 owners will presumably be able to work on a Mac nearby right on their phone. The communication is reset as users get out of range.

The Mac authenticates with the iPhone, which contains a lot of the information the computer needs, such as bookmarks, passwords and other data… The system would essentially turn any Apple computer into your own — like you’re actually working on your own computer. Same settings, look, bookmarks, preferences. It would all be invisible. Your iPhone would be all you needed to unlock your Mac,

said a source close to this project, as reported by AppleInsider. As users leave, their data disappears too:

When the user leaves, and the NFC-equipped iPhone is out of range, the host machine returns to its previous state.

Apple has been looking for NFC experts for quite some time. This is clearly in early stages and could very well not happen as early as June 2011. It’ll be interesting to see how fast the process will work. Besides, how close should an iPhone be to a Mac for this process to work. Still, this move by Apple can be a game changer.
Another good move that Apple seems to be making is working towards making its gadgets scratch proof. The company is experimenting with technologies that could make its devices less susceptible to scratches:

In addition to providing a durable, hard surface that is both scratch and impact resistant, the nitride layer allows for the natural surface color and texture of the underlying stainless steel to remain visible to the user

Even if Apple brings more scratch-resistant devices to the market, customers will still need to pick up cases and sleeves just to be on the safe side. It just happens that Apple won’t have to sacrifice the looks of its gadgets to achieve this goal.