A new Apple patent called “External Light Illumination of Display Screens,” says that LCD displays are difficult to view when outdoors in direct sunlight. It also said, it often takes high-powered components to properly light the display. The patent describes a way for a portable computer, to collect external light to illuminate the computer screen.
The patent application was filed with the U.S. Trademark & Patent Office on Sept. 19, 2008. The invention is credited to Peter H. Mahowald.