WO2020061350A1

WO2020061350A1 - Computing device and folio mode-detection system

Info

Publication number: WO2020061350A1
Application number: PCT/US2019/051985
Authority: WO
Inventors: Toshak SINGHAL
Original assignee: Google Llc
Priority date: 2018-09-20
Filing date: 2019-09-19
Publication date: 2020-03-26

Abstract

In one general aspect, a folio can include a dock configured to receive a computing device, a base portion including a passive mode-detection component, a hinge assembly, and a base panel including an active mode-detection component. The base panel can be hingedly coupled via the hinge assembly to the base portion. The base panel can include a processing component configured to determine a mode of the folio based on the passive mode-detection component being detected by the active mode-detection component.

Description

COMPUTING DEVICE AND FOLIO MODE- DETECTION SYSTEM

REUATED APPUI CATION

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/734,095, filed on September 20, 2018, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Computing devices, such as tablets and smartphones, are quite common and popular. These computing devices may provide some or all of the functionality of a traditional personal computer but in a smaller more portable form factor. For example, a computing device may have a shape that is similar to a thin rectangular prism. A front surface of the rectangular prism may include a display. A protective cover may be used with a computing device to increase the functionality of the computing device.

SUMMARY

[0003] This document relates, generally, to a cover and folio for computing devices. In some implementations, the system allows the folio to detect a mode of the folio and computing device.

[0004] In one general aspect, a folio can include a dock configured to receive a computing device, a base portion including a passive mode-detection component, a hinge assembly, and a base panel including an active mode-detection component. The base panel can be hingedly coupled via the hinge assembly to the base portion. The base panel can include a processing component configured to determine a mode of the folio based on the passive mode-detection component being detected by the active mode-detection component.

[0005] The details of one or more implementations are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0006] FIGS. 1 A through 1D are schematic diagrams of an embodiment of a system that includes a computing device and folio.

[0007] FIGS. 2A through 2G are diagrams that illustrate an example of the system shown in FIGS. 1 A through 1D.

[0008] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a portion of an embodiment of a folio.

[0009] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a portion of an example system that includes a computing device and an example of a folio.

[0010] FIG. 5 is a flowchart that illustrates a method of using the folios described herein.

[0011] FIG. 6 shows an example of a computer device and a mobile computer device that can be used to implement the techniques described here.

[0012] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0013] Various complicated techniques and/or mechanisms may be needed for communication between a folio and a computing device that can be removably coupled in known systems. Accordingly, detecting the operational mode (e.g., a mode representative of the alignment of the base portion and the base panel with respect to each other) of the folio and/or computing device can require communicating various signals via wires and/or other detection systems that can be complicated and/or can fail. The mode detection can be unreliable and/or can require the communication of many different signals, which can be complicated.

[0014] The systems described herein include a folio (e.g., keyboard folio) (also can be referred to as an adjustable protective stand assembly) and associated computing device (e.g., tablet, mobile computing device). In the implementations described herein, the system can be configured so that the folio can self-sufficiently detect one or more modes (e.g., a tablet mode, an entertainment mode, a laptop) of the folio and the computing device. In other words, the system can be configured so that the folio can detect one or more modes of the combination of the folio and the computing device. In some implementations, this self- sufficient mode detection can be fast, simple, reliable, and/or efficient. In some

implementations, this self-sufficient mode detection can also make, for example, disabling one or more functions of the computing device and/or the folio (e.g., a keyboard of the folio) fast, simple, reliable, and/or efficient. In some implementations, this can enable additional options for software applications, operating on the computing device, to handle keyboard functionality and/or user interface elements.

[0015] In the implementations described herein, the folio may also include one or more user input devices that are configured to receive user inputs for the computing device. In some implementations, the folio can include a keyboard and/or a trackpad. In some implementations, the folio can include a dock that is configured to be removably coupled to the computing device (e.g., a port (e.g., a pogo pin) of the computing device) through which electronic signals corresponding to received user inputs may be communicated. In some implementations, the folio can be configured to communicate one or more modes to the computing device via the dock or another mechanism.

[0016] In some implementations, the folio can have a slidable portion of the folio that can be configured to move across the rear surface of the computing device while the dock of the adjustable stand assembly and the port of the computing device are coupled together. In some implementations, the folio can function as a stand. In some implementations, the folio can function as a protective cover for the computing device. For example, portions of the folio can be straightened out (e.g., aligned) to form protective panels that are sized to cover the front and/or rear surfaces of the computing device. In at least this configuration, the folio may protect the computing device from scratches, impacts, and other damage.

[0017] In some implementations, the adjustable stand assembly and the computing device are configured to be removably coupled. In some implementations, the computing device and the adjustable stand assembly are coupled in a non-user removable manner. Although most of the examples herein describe magnetically susceptible regions of a rear surface of the computing device, other embodiments are possible too. For example, a case, panel, or another type of structure may be removably coupled to the rear surface of the computing device.

[0018] FIGS. 1 A through 1D are schematic diagrams of an embodiment of a system 100 that includes a computing device 102 and folio 120. The computing device 102 and the folio 120 can collectively define one or more modes. FIG. 1A illustrates a laptop configuration (or mode), FIG. 1B illustrates an entertainment configuration (or mode), FIG. 1C illustrates a tablet configuration (or mode), and FIG. 1D illustrates a closed configuration (or mode) of the system 100.

[0019] As shown in FIGS. 1A through 1D, the folio 120 includes a base panel 130 coupled to a base portion 152 via a hinge assembly 140. Accordingly, the base panel 130 can be hingedly coupled to the base portion 152 via the hinge assembly 140. The folio 120, also include a rotatable portion 156 that is coupled to the base portion 152 via a flexible region 154. Accordingly, the base portion 152 can be hingedly coupled to the rotatable portion 156 via the flexible region 154. The hinge assembly 140 and/or the flexible region 154 can be, or can include, a hinge. [0020] As shown in FIGS. 1A through 1D, the computing device 102 can be coupled to (e.g., removably coupled to) the folio 120 via a dock 142. The computing device 102 includes a display 108 on a front surface 104 of the computing device 102. A rear surface 106 of the computing device is on a side opposite the front surface 104 of the computing device 102. The dock 142 can include one or more electronic components through which the folio 120 can communicate with the computing device 102.

[0021] In some implementations, the computing device 102 may be a mobile phone, such as a smart phone, a tablet, an e-reader, or another type of computing device. The folio 120 may provide protection for some or all of the computing device 102. The folio 120 is an example of a protective device (e.g., a protective device for the entirety of the computing device 102 (housing) and/or display). Additionally, the folio 120 may be configured to support or prop up the computing device 102 in various orientations or positions. For example, the folio 120 may be adjustable between various configurations that position the computing device 102 at viewing angles between, for example, 100 degrees and 145 degrees (e.g., with respect to the surface below the computing device 102).

[0022] The folio 120 can be configured to detect one or more modes (e.g., the laptop mode shown in FIG. 1A, the entertainment mode shown in FIG. 1B, the tablet mode shown in FIG. 1C, the closed mode shown in FIG. 1D) of the folio 120 and the computing device 102. The modes can be determined by the folio 120 using an active mode-detection component 162 included in the base panel 130 and a passive mode-detection component 164.

Specifically, the folio 120 includes a processing component 166 configured to use the active mode-detection component 162 and the passive mode-detection component 164 to determine the mode of the folio 120 (and/or system 100).

[0023] The detection of one or more of the modes can be based on whether the active mode detection component 162 is in close proximity (e.g., within a threshold distance) with the passive mode detection component 164. For example, when the active mode detection component 162 is aligned with, or adjacent to, the passive mode detection component 164, the processing component 166 can determine that the folio 120 (and/or system 100) is in a particular configuration or mode.

[0024] In some implementations, the detection of one or more of the modes can be based on whether the active mode detection component 162 is within a threshold distance (e.g., a few millimeters, less than a millimeter) with the passive mode detection component 164. In some implementations, the threshold distance can be satisfied when the base panel 130 is in contact with and aligned parallel with the base portion 152. For example, when the base panel 130 is in contact with and aligned parallel with the base portion 152, the active mode detection component 162 is within a threshold distance with the passive mode detection component 164, and the processing component 166 can determine that the folio 120 (and/or system 100) is in a particular configuration or mode.

[0025] Although not shown, the processing component 166 can be included in a circuit board, a flex circuit board, and/or so forth included within the folio 120. In some implementations, the processing component 166 can be included in, or can be electrically in communication with a main logic board (MLB). The MLB can be within a palm rest area of the base panel 130. The components (e.g., active mode-detection component 164 and/or processing component 166) can be coupled to the MLB via a flex circuit board.

[0026] In some implementations, the passive mode-detection component 164 is, for example, a magnet. In some implementations, the active mode-detection component 162 is a magnet sensor. For example, in some implementations, the active mode-detection component 162 is a magnetometer, a giant magnetoresistance (GMR) sensor, a Hall sensor, and/or so forth. Accordingly, the active mode detection component 162 can detect the passive mode detection component 164. In some implementations, the processing component 166 can be configured to receive an electrical signal from the active mode detection component 162 and that signal can be used to determine that the active mode detection component 162 is in close proximity to the passive mode detection component 164.

[0027] In some implementations, because of the combination of the passive mode- detection component 164 and active mode-detection component 162 included in the folio 120 to determine a mode of the folio 120 (and/or system 100), an accelerometer is excluded from (not included in) the folio 120. In other words, an accelerometer can be excluded from any part of the folio 120.

[0028] The folio 120 may also include an input device 131 for use with the computing device 102. The input device 131 can include, for example, a keyboard, a trackpad, and/or so forth. For simplicity in description, the operation of the system 100 will be described in context of the input device 131, but in some implementations, more than one input device can be included in the folio 120. The input device 131 can be included on a top surface of the base panel 130 as shown in, for example, FIG. 1A. In some implementations, the folio 120 can selectively enable one or more input devices such as input device 131 based on the configuration of the folio 120 as determined using the active mode detection component 162, the passive mode detection component 164, and the processing components 166. Examples of the determination of the modes, and activation or deactivation of the input device 131 are described in more detail below in connection with FIGS. 1A through 1D.

[0029] When the base panel 130 is rotated (e.g., folded) (along direction Q) via the hinge assembly 140 so that the base panel is in contact with or aligned parallel (e.g., substantially parallel) to the base portion 152 (as shown in FIG. 1B or FIG. 1C), the passive mode detection component 164 and the active mode detection component 162 are in relatively close proximity (or within a threshold distance). Specifically, the active mode detection component 162 can detect the passive mode detection component 164. In response to the active mode detection component 162 detecting the passive mode detection component 164, the processing component 166 can determine that the folio 120 is in the entertainment mode shown in FIG. 1B or the tablet mode shown in FIG. 1C.

[0030] When the base panel 130 is rotated (e.g., folded) (along direction Q) via the hinge assembly 140 so that the base panel is not in contact with and/or is not aligned parallel to (e.g., is non-parallel to) the base portion 152 (as shown in FIG. 1A or FIG. 1D), the passive mode detection component 164 and the active mode detection component 162 are separated (e.g., no longer in close proximity) (or are outside of a threshold distance). Specifically, the active mode detection component 162 does not detect the passive mode detection component 164. In response to the active mode detection component 162 not detecting the passive mode detection component 164, the processing component 166 can determine that the folio 120 is in the laptop mode shown in FIG. 1 A or the closed mode shown in FIG. 1D.

[0031] In some implementations, when in the closed mode shown in FIG. 1D, the base panel 130 is aligned parallel to the base portion 152 but the base panel 130 is not in contact with base portion 152 (because the computing device 102 is disposed between the base panel 130 and the base portion 152) and the passive mode detection component 164 and the active mode detection component 162 are separated (e.g., no longer in close proximity)

(or are outside of a threshold distance). Specifically, the active mode detection component 162 does not detect the passive mode detection component 164 even though the base panel 130 is aligned parallel to the base portion 152. In response to the active mode detection component 162 not detecting the passive mode detection component 164, the processing component 166 can determine that the folio 120 is in the closed mode shown in FIG. 1D.

[0032] As shown, the folio 120 includes a dock 142 that is configured to be coupled to (e.g., mate with) a portion (e.g., a port) on the computing device 102. The dock 142 may include a circuit that is configured to communicate data, power, and/or so forth between the folio 120 and the computing device 102. After determining a mode of the folio 120 (and/or system 100) the folio 120 can be configured to communicate the mode to the computing device 102 via the dock 142. The mode can be communicated via, for example, a mode signal. For example, the mode signal can represent an entertain mode, a tablet mode, a closed mode, and so forth. In some implementations, the mode signal can be produced by the processing component 166. In some implementations, the mode signal can be communicated in one direction from the folio 120 to the computing device 102. In some implementations, the mode signal can be communicated in one direction from the folio 120 to the computing device 102 without acknowledgement from the computing device 102. In some

implementations, the mode signal can be transmitted to the computing device 102 via the docket 142 by the processing component 166. In some implementations, the dock 142 may transmit data representing, for example, keystrokes received via the input devices 131.

[0033] The mode signal can, in some implementations indicate whether the active mode detection component 162 detects or does not detect the passive mode detection component 164. In some implementations, a mode signal is produced (e.g., sent, communicated) only when the active mode detection component 162 detects the passive mode detection component 164. In such implementations, absence of a mode signal indicates that the active mode detection component 162 does not detect the passive mode detection component 164. Similarly, in some implementations, a mode signal is produced (e.g., sent, communicated) only when the active mode detection component 162 does not detect the passive mode detection component 164. In such implementations, absence of a mode signal indicates that the active mode detection component 162 detects the passive mode detection component 164.

[0034] After the mode signal is communicated from the folio 120 to the computing device 102, the computing device 102 can use the information represented by or within the mode signal to modify operation of the computing device 102 and/or the folio 120. For example, the folio 120 can determine that the folio 120 (and/or system 100) is in a particular mode, and the computing device 102 can modify operation of an application (e.g., a user interface, a keyboard application, a trackpad application, etc.) operating at the computing device 102 based on the mode signal. In some implementations, the computing device 102 can be configured to ignore (e.g., not make a change) a mode signal from the folio 120.

[0035] In some implementations, when the folio 120 determines that the system 100 is in the entertainment mode as shown in FIG. 1B or the tablet mode as shown in FIG. 1C using, for example, the components 162, 164, and 166, the input device 131 can be deactivated (e.g., input into the input device 131 may not be registered, the input device 131 may not be powered, input into the input device 131 can be ignored). The input device 131 can be deactivated because the input device 131 is on a bottom side as oriented in FIG. 1B of the system 100 and may not be accessible to a user the system 100 when in the entertainment mode. The input device 131 can be deactivated because the input device 131 is on an opposite side of the display 108 as shown in FIG. 1C when the system 100 is in the tablet mode. The input device 131 may not be accessible to a user the system 100 when in the tablet mode.

[0036] In some implementations, the input device 131 can be deactivated by the computing device 102 (e.g., in response to a mode signal received at the computing device 102 from the folio 120). In some implementations, the input device 131 can be deactivated at the folio 120 in response to an instruction from the computing device 102 (e.g., in response to a mode signal received at the computing device 102 from the folio 120). In some implementations, the computing device 102 can be configured to ignore input from the input device 131 in response to a mode signal received at the computing device 102 from the folio 120.

[0037] As mentioned above, the system 100 can be configured so that the folio 120 can detect one or more modes of the folio 120 (and/or system 100 including the computing device 120). This configuration can make, for example, disabling one or more functions of the computing device 102 and/or the folio 120 (e.g., a keyboard of the folio 120) fast, simple, reliable, and/or efficient. These implementations can enable the computing device 102 to control options of software applications operating on the computing device 102.

[0038] In some implementations, when the base panel 130 is in contact with and aligned parallel with the base portion 152, the active mode detection component 162 and the passive mode detection component 164 can be magnetically attracted. Accordingly, the base panel 130 and the base portion 152 can be magnetically coupled via the active mode detection component 162 and the passive mode detection component 164.

[0039] In some implementations, the modes of the folio 120 (and/or system 100) can be further distinguished using one or more sensors (e.g., accelerometers) included in the folio and/or system 100. For example, after the folio 120 has determined that the base panel 130 is in contact with and parallel to the base portion 152 (in the entertainment mode (shown in FIG. 1B) or the tablet mode (shown in FIG. 1C)), an accelerometer included in the folio 120 and/or the computing device 102 can be used to further determine that the folio 120 (and/or the system 100) is in the entertainment mode or the tablet mode based on the relative orientation of the base panel 130 (or the base portion 152) or the computing device 102. As another example, after the folio 120 has determined that the base panel 130 is in contact with and parallel to the base portion 152 (in the entertainment mode (shown in FIG. 1B) or the tablet mode (shown in FIG. 1C)), an accelerometer included in the folio 120 and/or the computing device 102 can be used to further determine that the folio 120 (and/or the system 100) is in the entertainment mode or the tablet mode based on the relative angle between of the base panel 130 (or the base portion 152) and the computing device 102.

[0040] In some implementations, the folio 120 can be configured so that the active mode detection component 162 and the passive mode detection component 164 are swapped (i.e., the active mode detection component 162 is included in the base portion 152 and the passive mode detection component 164 is included in the base panel 130). In some implementations, the folio 120 can be configured to include more than one active mode detection component such as active mode detection component 162 and/or more than one passive mode detection component such as the passive mode detection component 164. In some implementations, the folio 120 can be configured to include more than one processing component such as processing component 166. In some implementations, the processing component 166 can be included in the base portion 152.

[0041] FIGS. 2A through 2G are diagrams that illustrate an example of the system 100 shown in FIGS. 1A through 1D. Elements that are similar are not described again in connection with these figures for simplicity. Even though in reality these components are disposed within the folio 120, the active mode detection component 162, the passive mode detection component 164, and the processing component 166 are illustrated as white and dashed so that they can be seen.

[0042] The folio 120 can be configured to detect one or more modes (e.g., the laptop mode shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the entertainment mode shown in FIG. 2C, the closed mode shown in FIGS. 2D and 2E, and the tablet mode shown in FIG. 2F) of the folio 120 and the computing device 102. The modes can be determined by the folio 120 using the active mode-detection component 162 included in the base panel 130 and the passive mode- detection component 164. Specifically, the folio 120 includes the processing component 166 configured to use the active mode-detection component 162 and the passive mode-detection component 164 to determine the mode of the folio 120 (and/or system 100).

[0043] In some implementations, the base panel 130 is a thin sheet formed from a rigid or substantially rigid material. For example, the base panel 130 may be formed from a thin sheet of fiberglass material that is covered with a cloth or cloth-like material.

[0044] In some implementations, the base panel includes one or more user input devices and may be thicker to accommodate the user input devices and/or electronic circuitry associated with the user input devices. In this example, the base panel 130 includes two user input devices. Specifically, the base panel 130 includes a keyboard 132 and a trackpad 134. The keyboard 132 and the trackpad 134 may communicate via a wireless or wired communication channel. In some implementations, the base panel 130 may exclude the keyboard 132 or the trackpad 134.

[0045] In some implementations, one or more of the components 162 and/or 166 can be disposed under at least one of the keys of the keyboard 132. For example, the component 162 can be disposed under the“S” key of the keyboard. If the component 164 is included in the base panel 130, the component 164 can be disposed under at least one of the keys of the keyboard.

[0046] In some implementations, the hinge assembly 140 includes the dock 142 that is configured to mate with a port on the computing device 102. The dock 142 may include a circuit that is configured to communicate data (such as mode signals) and/or power between the folio 120 and the computing device 102. For example, the dock 142 may transmit data representing keystrokes received via the keyboard 132 or pointing inputs received via the trackpad 134. Additionally, the dock 142 may receive power from the computing device 102 to, for example, activate light emitting diodes on the folio 120 (e.g., to illuminate keys on the keyboard, to indicate power levels, or to provide other information).

[0047] In some implementations, the hinge assembly 140 joins the base panel 130 to the adjustable panel 150. In some implementations, the hinge assembly 140 adjustably joins the base panel 130 to the adjustable panel 150. The hinge assembly 140 may include a flexible piece of cloth that is sized to wrap around an edge of the computing device 102. For example, the hinge assembly 140 may have a dimension that is equal to or approximately equal to the thickness of the computing device 102. In some implementations, the hinge assembly 140 is sized to allow the base panel 130 to cover the front surface 104 of the computing device 102 at the same time as the adjustable panel 150 is covering the rear surface 106 of the computing device 102 (e.g., as illustrated and described with respect to at least FIGs. 2D, 2E).

[0048] In at least some configurations of the folio 120, the base panel 130 is positioned adjacent to the front surface 104 of the computing device and operates as a protective cover for the front surface 104, including the display 108. In some

implementations, the base panel 130 is sized to cover the front surface 104 of the computing device 102. For example, the base panel 130 may be the same size (e.g., surface area, area or footprint profile) as or substantially the same size as the front surface 104. [0049] In some implementations, the display 108 may be configured to present text, graphical, and other content. The display 108 may be, for example, a TFT LCD (Thin-Film- Transistor Liquid Crystal Display) or an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) display, or another display technology. The display 108 may include a touch-sensitive surface for receiving touch inputs from a user.

[0050] In some implementations, the adjustable panel 150 may be adjustable to different configurations that alter the position or orientation of the computing device 102. In the view shown in FIG. 2B, the adjustable panel 150 includes the base portion 152, the rotatable portion 156, and the slidable portion 160. The base portion 152 may be rotatably connected to the rotatable portion 156 via a first flexible region 154 (e.g., hinge). The first flexible region 154 may allow for adjustment of the angle between the base portion 152 and the rotatable portion 156. Similarly, the slidable portion 160 may be rotatably connected to the rotatable portion 156 via a second flexible region 158. The second flexible region 158 may allow for adjustment of the angle between the rotatable portion 156 and the slidable portion 160.

[0051] In some implementations, the adjustable panel 150 is formed from one or more sheets (e.g., thin sheets) of a rigid or substantially rigid material. For example, the adjustable panel 150 panel may be formed from one or more thin sheets of fiberglass material that are covered with cloth materials. For example, the base portion 152, the rotatable portion 156, and the slidable portion 160 may each be formed from separate sheets of rigid material. These separate sheets of rigid material may be surrounded by and/or joined by a flexible material such as cloth or fabric. The first flexible region 154 and the second flexible region 158 may correspond to junctures between separate sheets of rigid material (e.g., where the flexible material joins the separate sheets of rigid materials).

[0052] In at least some configurations of the folio 120, the adjustable panel 150 is positioned adjacent to the rear surface 106 of the computing device and operates as a protective cover for the rear surface 106. For example, when the adjustable panel 150 is straightened out (e.g., the first flexible region 154 and the second flexible region 158 are flat or approximately flat) the adjustable panel 150 may cover all or most of the rear surface 106 of the computing device 102. In some implementations, the adjustable panel 150 is sized to cover the rear surface 106. For example, the adjustable panel 150 may be the same size as or substantially the same size as the rear surface 106.

[0053] The slidable portion 160 may be configured to slide along a portion of the rear surface 106 of the computing device 102. Additionally, the slidable portion 160 may be physically attracted to the rear surface 106 of the computing device 102. For example, the slidable portion 160 may be magnetically attracted to at least a portion of the rear surface 106. For example, the slidable portion 160 may include a magnetic material and the rear surface 106 may include one or more magnetically susceptible regions. The magnetically susceptible regions of the rear surface 106 may be formed from magnetically susceptible materials. In some implementations, the magnetically susceptible regions of the rear surface 106 are not formed from magnetically susceptible materials but are instead in close proximity to magnetically susceptible materials. For example, the rear surface 106 may be formed from a magnetically inert material (e.g., a polymer or non-magnetic metal) but a magnetically susceptible material may be disposed inside the computing device 102 near or adjacent to the rear surface 106. Adjacent to the rear surface 106 includes being in contact with the material that forms the rear surface 106. In some implementations, the magnetically susceptible region is near to the rear surface 106 when it is disposed inside the computing device at a position so as to be attracted to a magnetic material positioned outside of the computing device 102 on the rear surface 106.

[0054] A magnetic material may be a material that produces a magnetic field. For example, a magnetic material may produce a magnetic field independent of any

contemporaneous external magnetic field. In some implementations, an external magnetic field is applied during the formation of a magnetic material and then the magnetic field of the magnetic material persists after removal of the external magnetic material. Magnetic materials may produce magnetic fields having a field strength of at least, for example, 5 gausses. The magnetic moments of the electrons of a magnetic material may be substantially coordinated so that the magnetic moments point in the same direction.

[0055] A ferromagnetic material may be a material having a high susceptibility to magnetization. Some ferromagnetic materials may also be magnetic materials. For example, a ferromagnetic material may form a magnetic material or may be attracted to a magnetic material. Examples of ferromagnetic materials include, but are not limited to, iron, nickel, cobalt and most alloys of these metals. Other examples of ferromagnetic materials include rare earth magnets such as neodymium magnets and samarium-cobalt magnets.

[0056] A magnetically susceptible material is a material that is attracted to a magnetic material. Magnetically susceptible materials include magnetic materials and ferromagnetic materials.

[0057] In various implementations, various combinations of magnetically susceptible materials are included in the slidable portion 160 and the magnetically susceptible regions of the rear surface 106. In some implementations, both the slidable portion 160 and the magnetically susceptible regions of the rear surface 106 include magnetic materials. In some implementations, the slidable portion 160 includes a magnetic material and the magnetically susceptible regions of the rear surface 106 are formed using ferromagnetic materials. In some implementations, the slidable portion 160 includes a ferromagnetic material and the magnetically susceptible regions of the rear surface 106 are formed using magnetic materials. Additionally, the magnetically susceptible regions of the rear surface 106 may be formed using combinations of ferromagnetic materials and magnetic materials. Similarly, the slidable portion 160 may be formed using combinations of ferromagnetic materials and magnetic materials.

[0058] In at least some implementations, the slidable portion 160 may slide (e.g., move) along a region of the rear surface 106. For example, the slidable portion 160 may slide along a translational axis in a translational direction (indicated at T in this figure) through a first magnetically susceptible region of the rear surface 106. For purposes of this description, the sliding along the translational axis will be described from a point of view of view looking at the front surface 104 when the computing device 102 is in a landscape orientation (i.e., the computing device 102 is oriented so that the larger dimension of the display is oriented horizontally). Some implementations are possible in which the translational axis is different or the computing device 102 is oriented differently. The translational axis may for, example, be aligned with a vertical axis of the computing device 102 when the computing device 102 in a landscape orientation. A first translational direction may be directed from a bottom side (i.e., the side below the display 108) of the computing device to a top side (i.e., the side above the display 108) of the computing device, and a second translation direction may be directed in the opposite direction (i.e., from the top of the computing device 102 to the bottom).

[0059] For example, the first magnetically susceptible region of the rear surface 106 may extend from a lower position on the rear surface 106 to a higher position on the rear surface 106. The slidable portion 160 may then slide between the bottom and the top of the rear surface 106 and may be positioned at the bottom, the top, or anywhere in between. As the slidable portion 160 moves in the translation direction along the rear surface 106, the rotatable portion 156 will rotate with respect to the base portion 152 as will the computing device 102. In this manner, a user can adjust the viewing angle of the display 108. For example, as the slidable portion 160 moves down toward the bottom of the rear surface 106, the computing device 102 rotates to a more upright angle. Conversely, as the slidable portion 160 moves up toward the top of the rear surface 106, the computing device 102 rotates to a more horizontal angle. Because the slidable portion 160 can be adjusted to countless positions within the first magnetically susceptible region, the computing device 102 can be rotated to countless angles. For example, the folio 120 may allow for infinite adjustment to the angle of the computing device 102.

[0060] Some implementations of the folio 120 also include a magnetic assembly that is configured to do one or more of coupling the folio 120 in a specific configuration and sensing whether the folio 120 is in a specific configuration. In the example of FIG. 2A, the base panel 130 includes the component 162 (e.g., a magnet, passive mode-detection component) and the adjustable panel 150 includes the component 164 (e.g., magnetic sensor, active mode-detection component). The component 162 may be attracted to the component 164 so that if the base panel 130 is folded under the adjustable panel 150 (e.g., as illustrated and described with respect to at least FIG. 2C), the attractive force between the component 162 and the component 164 will hold the base panel 130 in place. Additionally, the component 164 may be configured to detect the component 162 to, for example, determine the configuration of the folio 120. Based on this determination, the user input devices of the base panel 130 may be selectively enabled or disabled (e.g., the keyboard 132 and the trackpad 134 may be disabled when the base panel 130 is folded under the adjustable panel 150 to reduce unintentional inputs caused by contacts with the surface under the folio 120).

In some implementations, the component 162 is replaced by a magnet or a magnetically susceptible material. In these implementations, the magnetic assembly may only couple the adjustable panel 150 to the base panel 130.

[0061] FIG. 2C is a schematic diagram of the system 100 in an example entertainment mode (also can be referred to as a viewing configuration). In this example viewing configuration, the base panel 130 is folded under the adjustable panel 150. For example, the hinge assembly 140 may be folded or rotated such that the base panel 130 is at an angle of 180 degrees or approximately 180 degrees with respect to the base portion 152 of the adjustable panel 150.

[0062] In at least some embodiments, when the system 100 is arranged in the example viewing configuration shown in FIG. 2C, some or all of the user input devices (e.g., the keyboard 132 or the trackpad 134) may be directed downward where they will be unusable and may be in contact with a surface upon which the system 100 is placed (e.g., a desk, table, floor). The user input devices may be disabled based on the system 100 determining that the system 100 is arranged in the example viewing configuration. [0063] For example, some implementations of the folio 120 include a circuit that disables input from one or more of the user input devices when the component 164 detects the component 162. Some implementations disable input from one or more of the user input devices based on different or other factors too, such as the flexure or angle of the hinge assembly 140 and the orientation of the base panel 130 (e.g., as determined with an accelerometer included in some embodiments).

[0064] As in the configuration shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, in the viewing configuration shown in FIG. 2C, the angle of the computing device 102 with respect to the surface beneath the system 100 may be adjusted by sliding the slidable portion along the rear surface 106 of the computing device 102. The slidable portion 160 may slide along the rear surface 106 along the translational dimension T to alter the angle of the computing device 102.

[0065] FIGS. 2D and 2E are diagrams of the system 100 in an example closed configuration. In this example, the folio 120 is arranged to cover the front surface 104 and the rear surface 106 of the computing device 102. Specifically, the base panel 130 covers the front surface 104, the adjustable panel 150 covers the rear surface 106, and the hinge assembly 140 wraps around a side of the computing device 102. For example, the adjustable panel 150 may be flattened out (i.e., arranged such that the base portion 152, rotatable portion 156, and the slidable portion 160 may be oriented on or substantially on the same plane). For example, when the adjustable panel 150 is flattened out, the first flexible region 154 and the second flexible region 158 may be straight or approximately straight (i.e., not bent, flexed, or rotated).

[0066] In some implementations, the dock 142 of the hinge assembly 140 is coupled to a port on the computing device 102. For example, the dock 142 may be coupled to a port on the side of the computing device 102 around which the hinge assembly 140 wraps. The hinge assembly 140 may wrap around a side of the computing device that would be located below the display 108 when the computing device 102 was used in a landscape orientation.

[0067] FIG. 2F is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the computing device 102. In this figure, the computing device 102 is shown without the folio 120. In at least some implementations, the folio 120 is configured to be separated from the computing device 102 by a user.

[0068] As described above, the computing device 102 includes the front surface 104 and the rear surface 106. The front surface 104 includes the display 108. In this example, the front surface 104 and the rear surface 106 are generally flat and rectangular shaped. In some implementations, one or more of the front surface 104 or the rear surface 106 may be curved or rounded. Additionally, the comers of the rectangular shaped surfaces may be rounded.

[0069] FIG. 2G is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the folio 120. In this figure, the folio 120 is shown without the computing device 102. In at least some implementations, the folio 120 is configured to be separated from the computing device 102 by a user. The components 162, 164, and 166 are shown in FIG. 2G.

[0070] As described above, the folio 120 is adjustable to support a computing device in different angles (i.e., with respect to a surface below the folio 120). The angle of the computing device 102 can be adjusted by moving the slidable portion 160 along a translational dimension T on a rear surface of the computing device. The translational dimension T may, for example, be parallel with a short axis of the slidable portion 160. In some implementations, the slidable portion 160 may be movable in a first direction along the translational dimension T (e.g., towards the hinge assembly 140) to position the computing device in a more upright position. Conversely, the slidable portion 160 may be movable in a second direction along the translation dimension T that is opposite the first direction (e.g., is away from the hinge assembly 140) to position the computing device in a less upright position.

[0071] In some implementations, the dock 142 may include a connector 670. The connector 670 may be configured to mate with a port of a computing device, such as the port 510 of the computing device 102 (shown in at least FIG. 2F). In some implementations, the connector 670 includes circuitry to allow one or more of data (e.g., such as a mode signal) or power to be transmitted to from the folio 120.

[0072] FIG. 2G illustrates a connection component 168 from the processing component 166 to the dock 142. The connection component 168 can be used to a communicate a mode signal from the processing component 166 to the connector 670 via the dock 142. The connection component 168 can be, or can include, for example, a wire, a flex cable, and/or so forth.

[0073] As described above, the component 164 is used in conjunction with the component 162 to determine when the folio 120 is arranged in a viewing configuration in a manner similar to as has been described previously with respect to the components 162, 164. In some implementations, the positions of the component 162 and the component 164 are swapped.

[0074] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a portion of an embodiment of a folio 320. The folio 320 is an example of the folio 120. In this figure, a close-up view of a hinge assembly 340 of the folio 320 is shown. The folio 320 also includes a base panel 330 and an adjustable panel 350. The hinge assembly 340 flexibly connects the base panel 330 to the adjustable panel 350, allowing one or both of the position and orientation of the adjustable panel 350 to be adjusted with respect to the base panel 330. The hinge assembly 340 may, for example, be formed from a thin sheet of flexible material, such as a cloth, rubber, or a polymer.

[0075] The hinge assembly 340 includes a dock 342. The dock 342 is configured to mate with a side of a computing device, such as the computing device 102. For example, the dock 342 may be configured to mate with a side of a computing device, such as a bottom side (i.e., a side between the front surface and the rear surface that is located below the display when the computing device is being used in a landscape orientation). In some

implementations, the dock 342 may be configured to mate with a side of the computing device that has a port.

[0076] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a portion of an example system 400 that includes a computing device 402 and an example of a folio 420. In this figure, a close-up view of the interface between the computing device 402 and the folio 420 is shown. The computing device 402 is an example of the computing device 102 and the folio 420 is an example of the folio 420.

[0077] The computing device 402 includes a port 410. The port 410 is disposed on a side 409 of the computing device 402. The side 409 is between the front side 404 (containing the display 408) and the rear surface 406 of the computing device 402. In this case, the side 409 is disposed below the display 408 (i.e., from the perspective of one viewing the display 408).

[0078] In some embodiments, the port 410 includes at least one alignment recess 412 and at least one electronic contact 414. In this example, the port 410 includes two alignment recesses 412 and four electronic contacts 414. The alignment recesses 412 may be configured to receive alignment pins of a connector 470 located on a dock 442 of a hinge 440 of the folio 420 to properly align the electronic contacts 414 with electronic contacts of the folio 420.

[0079] FIG. 5 is a flowchart that illustrates a method of using the folios and systems (e.g., folio 120, system 100) described herein. The method can include, for example, rotating a base panel of a folio including an active mode-detection component toward a passive mode- detection component included in a base portion of the folio (block 510). The base panel can be hingedly coupled to the base portion. [0080] The method can also include detecting, using the active mode-detection component, the passive mode-detection component (block 520). In some implementations the active mode-detection component can be within a threshold distance of the passive mode- detection component.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 5, the method can include sending (e.g., transmitting) to a computing device coupled to the folio via a dock and in response to the detecting, a mode signal indicating that the base panel is in contact with the base portion. In some

implementations, the sending is from a processing component associated with the active mode-detection component. In some implementations, the mode signal can indicate a particular mode, such as a tablet mode or an entertainment mode.

[0082] In some implementations, the method can include rotating the base panel of the folio including away from the base portion of the folio, and determining that the active mode-detection component no longer detects the passive mode-detection component. In response to the determining a mode signal can be sent to the computing device coupled to the folio via the dock. The mode signal can indicate that the active mode-detection component no longer detects the passive mode-detection component. The mode signal can indicate that the base panel is not in contact with the base portion.

[0083] FIG. 6 shows an example of a generic computer device 1600 and a generic mobile computer device 1650, which may be used with the techniques described here.

Computing device 1600 is intended to represent various forms of digital computers, such as laptops, desktops, tablets, workstations, personal digital assistants, televisions, servers, blade servers, mainframes, and other appropriate computing devices. Computing device 1650 is intended to represent various forms of mobile devices, such as personal digital assistants, cellular telephones, smart phones, and other similar computing devices. The components shown here, their connections and relationships, and their functions, are meant to be exemplary only, and are not meant to limit implementations of the inventions described and/or claimed in this document.

[0084] Computing device 1600 includes a processor 1602, memory 1604, a storage device 1606, a high-speed interface 1608 connecting to memory 1604 and high-speed expansion ports 1610, and a low speed interface 1612 connecting to low speed bus 1614 and storage device 1606. The processor 1602 can be a semiconductor-based processor. The memory 1604 can be a semiconductor-based memory. Each of the components 1602, 1604, 1606, 1608, 1610, and 1612, are interconnected using various busses, and may be mounted on a common motherboard or in other manners as appropriate. The processor 1602 can process instructions for execution within the computing device 1600, including instructions stored in the memory 1604 or on the storage device 1606 to display graphical information for a GUI on an external input/output device, such as display 1616 coupled to high speed interface 1608. In other implementations, multiple processors and/or multiple buses may be used, as appropriate, along with multiple memories and types of memory. Also, multiple computing devices 1600 may be connected, with each device providing portions of the necessary operations (e.g., as a server bank, a group of blade servers, or a multi-processor system).

[0085] The memory 1604 stores information within the computing device 1600. In one implementation, the memory 1604 is a volatile memory unit or units. In another implementation, the memory 1604 is a non-volatile memory unit or units. The memory 1604 may also be another form of computer-readable medium, such as a magnetic or optical disk.

[0086] The storage device 1606 is capable of providing mass storage for the computing device 1600. In one implementation, the storage device 1606 may be or contain a computer-readable medium, such as a floppy disk device, a hard disk device, an optical disk device, or a tape device, a flash memory or other similar solid state memory device, or an array of devices, including devices in a storage area network or other configurations. A computer program product can be tangibly embodied in an information carrier. The computer program product may also contain instructions that, when executed, perform one or more methods, such as those described above. The information carrier is a computer- or machine- readable medium, such as the memory 1604, the storage device 1606, or memory on processor 1602.

[0087] The high speed controller 1608 manages bandwidth-intensive operations for the computing device 1600, while the low speed controller 1612 manages lower bandwidth intensive operations. Such allocation of functions is exemplary only. In one implementation, the high-speed controller 1608 is coupled to memory 1604, display 1616 (e.g., through a graphics processor or accelerator), and to high-speed expansion ports 1610, which may accept various expansion cards (not shown). In the implementation, low-speed controller 1612 is coupled to storage device 1606 and low-speed expansion port 1614. The low-speed expansion port, which may include various communication ports (e.g., USB, Bluetooth, Ethernet, wireless Ethernet) may be coupled to one or more input/output devices, such as a keyboard, a pointing device, a scanner, or a networking device such as a switch or router, e.g., through a network adapter.

[0088] The computing device 1600 may be implemented in a number of different forms, as shown in the figure. For example, it may be implemented as a standard server 1620, or multiple times in a group of such servers. It may also be implemented as part of a rack server system 1624. In addition, it may be implemented in a personal computer such as a laptop computer 1622. Alternatively, components from computing device 1600 may be combined with other components in a mobile device (not shown), such as device 1650. Each of such devices may contain one or more of computing device 1600, 1650, and an entire system may be made up of multiple computing devices 1600, 1650 communicating with each other.

[0089] Computing device 1650 includes a processor 1652, memory 1664, an input/output device such as a display 1654, a communication interface 1666, and a transceiver 1668, among other components. The device 1650 may also be provided with a storage device, such as a microdrive or other device, to provide additional storage. Each of the components 1650, 1652, 1664, 1654, 1666, and 1668, are interconnected using various buses, and several of the components may be mounted on a common motherboard or in other manners as appropriate.

[0090] The processor 1652 can execute instructions within the computing device 1650, including instructions stored in the memory 1664. The processor may be implemented as a chipset of chips that include separate and multiple analog and digital processors. The processor may provide, for example, for coordination of the other components of the device 1650, such as control of user interfaces, applications run by device 1650, and wireless communication by device 1650.

[0091] Processor 1652 may communicate with a user through control interface 1658 and display interface 1656 coupled to a display 1654. The display 1654 may be, for example, a TFT LCD (Thin-Film-Transistor Liquid Crystal Display) or an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) display, or other appropriate display technology. The display interface 1656 may include appropriate circuitry for driving the display 1654 to present graphical and other information to a user. The control interface 1658 may receive commands from a user and convert them for submission to the processor 1652. In addition, an external interface 1662 may be provided in communication with processor 1652, so as to enable near area communication of device 1650 with other devices. External interface 1662 may provide, for example, for wired communication in some implementations, or for wireless communication in other implementations, and multiple interfaces may also be used.

[0092] The memory 1664 stores information within the computing device 1650. The memory 1664 can be implemented as one or more of a computer-readable medium or media, a volatile memory unit or units, or a non-volatile memory unit or units. Expansion memory 1674 may also be provided and connected to device 1650 through expansion interface 1672, which may include, for example, a SIMM (Single In Line Memory Module) card interface. Such expansion memory 1674 may provide extra storage space for device 1650, or may also store applications or other information for device 1650. Specifically, expansion memory 1674 may include instructions to carry out or supplement the processes described above, and may include secure information also. Thus, for example, expansion memory 1674 may be provided as a security module for device 1650, and may be programmed with instructions that permit secure use of device 1650. In addition, secure applications may be provided via the SIMM cards, along with additional information, such as placing identifying information on the SIMM card in a non-hackable manner.

[0093] The memory may include, for example, flash memory and/or NVRAM memory, as discussed below. In one implementation, a computer program product is tangibly embodied in an information carrier. The computer program product contains instructions that, when executed, perform one or more methods, such as those described above. The information carrier is a computer- or machine-readable medium, such as the memory 1664, expansion memory 1674, or memory on processor 1652, that may be received, for example, over transceiver 1668 or external interface 1662.

[0094] Device 1650 may communicate wirelessly through communication interface 1666, which may include digital signal processing circuitry where necessary. Communication interface 1666 may provide for communications under various modes or protocols, such as GSM voice calls, SMS, EMS, or MMS messaging, CDMA, TDMA, PDC, WCDMA, CDMA2000, or GPRS, among others. Such communication may occur, for example, through radio-frequency transceiver 1668. In addition, short-range communication may occur, such as using a Bluetooth, WiFi, or other such transceiver (not shown). In addition, GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver module 1670 may provide additional navigation- and location- related wireless data to device 1650, which may be used as appropriate by applications running on device 1650.

[0095] Device 1650 may also communicate audibly using audio codec 1660, which may receive spoken information from a user and convert it to usable digital information. Audio codec 1660 may likewise generate audible sound for a user, such as through a speaker, e.g., in a handset of device 1650. Such sound may include sound from voice telephone calls, may include recorded sound (e.g., voice messages, music files, etc.) and may also include sound generated by applications operating on device 1650. [0096] The computing device 1650 may be implemented in a number of different forms, as shown in the figure. For example, it may be implemented as a cellular telephone 1680. It may also be implemented as part of a smart phone 1682, personal digital assistant, or other similar mobile device.

[0097] Various implementations of the systems and techniques described here can be realized in digital electronic circuitry, integrated circuitry, specially designed ASICs

(application specific integrated circuits), computer hardware, firmware, software, and/or combinations thereof. These various implementations can include implementation in one or more computer programs that are executable and/or interpretable on a programmable system including at least one programmable processor, which may be special or general purpose, coupled to receive data and instructions from, and to transmit data and instructions to, a storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device.

[0098] These computer programs (also known as programs, software, software applications or code) include machine instructions for a programmable processor, and can be implemented in a high-level procedural and/or object-oriented programming language, and/or in assembly/machine language. As used herein, the terms“machine-readable medium” “computer-readable medium” refers to any computer program product, apparatus and/or device (e.g., magnetic discs, optical disks, memory, Programmable Logic Devices (PLDs)) used to provide machine instructions and/or data to a programmable processor, including a machine-readable medium that receives machine instructions as a machine-readable signal. The term“machine-readable signal” refers to any signal used to provide machine instructions and/or data to a programmable processor.

[0099] To provide for interaction with a user, the systems and techniques described here can be implemented on a computer having a display device (e.g., a CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor) for displaying information to the user and a keyboard and a pointing device (e.g., a mouse or a trackball) by which the user can provide input to the computer. Other kinds of devices can be used to provide for interaction with a user as well; for example, feedback provided to the user can be any form of sensory feedback (e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback); and input from the user can be received in any form, including acoustic, speech, or tactile input.

[0100] The systems and techniques described here can be implemented in a computing system that includes a back end component (e.g., as a data server), or that includes a middleware component (e.g., an application server), or that includes a front end component (e.g., a client computer having a graphical user interface or a Web browser through which a user can interact with an implementation of the systems and techniques described here), or any combination of such back end, middleware, or front end components. The components of the system can be interconnected by any form or medium of digital data communication (e.g., a communication network). Examples of communication networks include a local area network (“LAN”), a wide area network (“WAN”), and the Internet.

[0101] The computing system can include clients and servers. A client and server are generally remote from each other and typically interact through a communication network. The relationship of client and server arises by virtue of computer programs running on the respective computers and having a client-server relationship to each other.

[0102] A number of embodiments have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0103] In addition, the logic flows depicted in the figures do not require the particular order shown, or sequential order, to achieve desirable results. In addition, other steps may be provided, or steps may be eliminated, from the described flows, and other components may be added to, or removed from, the described systems. Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A folio, comprising:

a dock configured to receive a computing device;

a base portion including a passive mode-detection component; a hinge assembly; and

a base panel including an active mode-detection component, the base panel being hingedly coupled via the hinge assembly to the base portion,

the base panel including a processing component configured to determine a mode of the folio based on the passive mode-detection component being detected by the active mode-detection component.

2. The folio of claim 1, wherein the base panel includes a keyboard.

3. The folio of claim 1, wherein the processing component is configured to send a mode signal representing the mode to the computing device via the dock.

4. The folio of claim 1 , wherein, in an entertainment mode of the computing device and the folio, the base portion and the base panel are aligned along a first plane non parallel to a second plane along which a display of the computing device is aligned,

wherein the processing component is configured to send a mode signal representing that the computing device and the folio are collectively in the entertainment mode when the computing device and the folio are collectively in the entertainment mode.

5. The folio of claim 1, wherein, in a tablet mode of the computing device and the folio, the base portion, the base panel, and a display of the computing device are aligned along the same plane,

wherein the processing component is configured to send a mode signal representing that the computing device and the folio are collectively in the tablet mode when the computing device and the folio are collectively in the tablet mode.

6. The folio of claim 1, wherein the processing component is configured to determine that the folio and the computing device are collectively in a laptop mode when the passive mode-detection component is not detected by the active mode-detection component.

7. The folio of claim 6, wherein the processing component is configured to send a mode signal indicating that the computing device and the folio are collectively in the laptop mode.

8. The folio of claim 1, wherein the passive mode-detection component is a magnet.

9. The folio of claim 1, wherein the active mode-detection component is a magnetometer.

10. The folio of claim 1, wherein the folio includes a rotatable portion hingedly coupled to the base portion.

11. The folio of claim 1, wherein the dock is rotatably coupled to a fabric included in the hinge assembly.

12. The folio of claim 1, wherein the processing component is configured to determine a mode of the folio based on the passive mode-detection component being within a threshold distance of the active mode-detection component.

13. A system comprising:

a computing device including a display; and

a folio for the computing device, including:

a base portion including a passive mode-detection component, and a base panel including an active mode-detection component and hingedly coupled to the base portion, the folio configured to determine that the system is in a mode based on the passive mode-detection component being detected by the active mode-detection component.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the folio further includes: a dock, and

a processing component configured to send a mode signal representing the mode to the computing device via the dock.

15. The system of claim 13, wherein, in an entertainment mode of the computing device and the folio, the base portion and the base panel are aligned along a first plane non parallel to a second plane along which the display of the computing device is aligned,

wherein the the folio is configured to send a mode signal representing that the computing device and the folio are collectively in the entertainment mode when the computing device and the folio are collectively in the entertainment mode.

16. The system of claim 13, wherein, in a tablet mode of the computing device and the folio, the base portion, the base panel, and the display of the computing device are aligned along the same plane,

wherein the folio is configured to send a mode signal representing that the computing device and the folio are collectively in the tablet mode when the computing device and the folio are collectively in the tablet mode.

17. The system of claim 13, wherein the folio is configured to determine that the folio and the computing device are collectively in a laptop mode when the passive mode- detection component is not detected by the active mode-detection component.

18. A method, comprising:

rotating a base panel of a folio including an active mode-detection component toward a passive mode-detection component included in a base portion of the folio, the base panel being hingedly coupled to the base portion;

detecting, using the active mode-detection component and the passive mode- detection component, that the passive mode-detection component is within a threshold distance of the active mode-detection component; and

sending to a computing device coupled to the folio via a dock and in response to the detecting, a mode signal indicating that the base panel is in contact with the base portion.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the sending is from a processing component.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein the mode signal is a first mode signal, the method, further comprising:

rotating the base panel of the folio away from the base portion of the folio;

determining that the active mode-detection component no longer detects the passive mode-detection component; and

sending to a computing device coupled to the folio via a dock and in response to the active mode-detection component no longer detecting the passive mode-detection component, a second mode signal indicating that the base panel is not in contact with the base portion.

21. A computer program product containing instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to:

detect, using an active mode-detection component included in a base panel of a folio and a passive mode-detection component included in a base portion of the folio, the base panel being hingedly coupled to the base portion, that the base panel is in contact with the base portion by determining that the passive mode-detection component is within a threshold distance of the active mode-detection component; and

send, to a computing device coupled to the folio via a dock and in response to the detecting, a mode signal indicating that the base panel is in contact with the base portion.