Nokia has a couple of interesting new patents this week which, unlike some patents, could actually be seen on real phones in the future.

The first details a mobile phone display that detects which way up it is and flips over accordingly. Apparently this will not infringe the iPhone display as it only applies to phones with a real keypad. The essential feature is the keys which will work when the phone is upside down.

Nokia keypad patent

The second is like a pop out joystick device we spotted a few weeks ago. The abstract states:

A handheld device having processor components operatively connected together for performing predetermined functions. The device defines a socket configured for rotatably receiving a ball defining an orifice configured for receiving a stylus. The socket is further configured for generating to the processor components electrical signals indicative of movement of the ball in response to movement of the stylus. The processor components include pointing device logic for responding to said signals.

Nokia seems to be discussing a way to use a stylus to quickly slide in a joystick on your cell phone or PDA with a track ball.

Nokia joystick patent