A future version of the MacBook Pro may not have a visible physical trackpad at all, and instead could use the entire surface below the keyboard bordered with light-up elements to create a more dynamic touch surface.
The trackpad is an extremely well-known component of a notebook, like the MacBook Pro, with it used as the alternative for a mouse. This makes it very useful in situations where a mouse or other cursor-controlling peripheral isn’t practical, such as standing up without a nearby surface to use.
However, the trackpad still has its issues, such as being limited in terms of size and position. Users may want to use a bigger trackpad area than provided by the device itself, or could prefer for it to be off to a side for use by one hand while the other continues using the keyboard, but cannot because it is fixed into the chassis of the notebook.
There is also the issue of damage, as a trackpad may become effectively unusable depending on how it has been impacted or scratched. An alternative trackpad surface typically isn’t available until the user sends the notebook in for servicing.
Read more at AppleInsider.com