MS Files Patent for Smartphone USB Docking Bay

We don't usually like to take sides in the MS/*nix/Apple/Vi/emacs type wars (unless it's for fun or to just be mean for no reason). This patent filing seems a bit on the vague and domineering side even for the Redmond juggernaut. The filing covers a docking interface to allow smart-phone devices to connect to multiple USB peripheral devices. The patent mentions "external monitors, input devices such as mice and keyboards, external hard drives, and networks (wired and/or wireless)".

Verizon has recently released a bridge device (Hub) with a display and adaptive connectivity for home/wireless use. Microsoft seems to be looking to go even further making the smart-phone into the core of a home computing environment instead of just a expanded phone station. With the mention of connecting to TVs 4G, 5G or 8G might provide enough mobile bandwidth to stream entertainment media via wireless broadband without breaking the bank. No word on the release or even what generation Microsoft is planning to enter the market, but good money says it will be a while.

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