At a time when it seems like every space that couldsupport an ATMalready has one, Apple has filed a patent application for a networkwhich it calls an “Ad-Hoc Cash Dispensing Network” which wouldcompete with ATMs by providing cash to people distant from anATM.

The July 2011 application only came to light on the U.S. Patentand Trademark Office website on Wednesday.

The patent envisions Apple acting, in effect, as a deposittaker, something it already does since it allows consumers to keepmoney in their consumer accounts to purchase music on iTunes andmake other purchases.

Using an app that the consumer would download for their iPhoneor iPad, consumers would let others know they have a cash needthrough request providing details of how much they want to borrowand their location, via GPS.

The request is delivered to anyone in the same location who issigned up to the service and if a willing lender is found, a timeand place to meet and hand over the cash is arranged.

Following the transfer of cash, the requesting user's accountwith Apple is charged for the service while the provider's iscredited. The application acknowledges the move toward cash-lesspayments but points out that cash is sometimes still required andmight not be available.

The application does not definitely identify any way there mightbe a fee for the service or how much it might be, though it alludesto the possibility that Apple and the funds provider might split afee.