Solar powered MP3 players have existed before, though they’ve not exactly been the most successful items in the portable digital audio market. However that might all change very soon as Apple, the biggest player in the MP3 player game, looks to capitalise on solar power for its iPod and iPhone products.

If Apple are doing it, it’ll be a success. How could it not?

This would mean that iPod and iPhone users could recharge their devices by leaving them out in the sun, instead of plugging them in or using their USB.

A patent for a unique technology that allows for a layer of solar cells to be fitted in the iPhone, just under the touch screen, has been filed by Apple.

This will make the iPhone truly portable as it won’t ever require plugging in again.

The problem with adding solar cells to MP3 players in the past has always been the fact that they’ve had little room for them after the buttons and the screen have been taken into account. Placing the cells under the touch screen will negate this problem and allow Apple to maximise their technology.

This means that the whole glass section of the iPhone, 2.4 x 4.5 inches, would be a solar panel.

This also means that the battery time of the two devices would be drastically improved, making it better for the environment and better for the end user.