Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Apple applies for optical stylus patent, Hell reports coldest day on record]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/24/apple-applies-for-stylus-patent/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/24/apple-applies-for-stylus-patent/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/24/apple-applies-for-stylus-patent/#comments Apple applies for optical stylus patent, Hell reports coldest day on record

Apple has famously shunned the humble stylus, so it's fair to say we're more than a little curious about why it's filed a patent application for one. The "optical stylus" mentioned seems simple enough. The claims outline the brains to interpret your doodlings, as well pressure and orientation. Beyond that, well, it's more or less just a stylus. While we suspected the team at Cupertino were fans of Draw Something, we didn't think they'd take it this seriously!

Apple applies for optical stylus patent, Hell reports coldest day on record originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 24 May 2012 07:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleapple patentapple stylusApplePatentAppleStyluscupertinoiphone stylusIphoneStyluspatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationstylusstylus patentStylusPatentThu, 24 May 2012 07:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Patent application highlights Apple's continued flirtation with haptic feedback]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/03/patent-application-highlights-apples-continued-flirtation-with/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/03/patent-application-highlights-apples-continued-flirtation-with/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/03/patent-application-highlights-apples-continued-flirtation-with/#comments Image

We could all use a little feedback, right? Even Apple. The company has been toying around with the concept of haptic feedback for a while now, at least so far as patent applications are concerned. Another application filed in November or 2010 has surfaced. Of course, what we told you back in 2009 about the tenuous connection between an application and an actual product is as relevant as ever. Still, Apple's concept for a "tiered haptic system" which "may use one or more arrays of shape change elements to provide a wide range of tactile feedback" demonstrates that, at least as of late 2010, Cupertino was still working to rethink the way it sees touchscreens.

Patent application highlights Apple's continued flirtation with haptic feedback originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 May 2012 19:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applehaptichaptic feedbackHapticFeedbackpatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationtouchtouchscreenThu, 03 May 2012 19:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent app details 'active packaging,' a new level of window shopping]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/apple-patent-app-active-media-packaging/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/apple-patent-app-active-media-packaging/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/apple-patent-app-active-media-packaging/#comments apple active media packagingApple's generally not one to go overboard with packaging; a simple white box with a few unmistakable logos is just about all it takes to get the point across. But in a future world -- one where people have digitized skin and NFC readers in their fingernails -- we'll obviously need something with a bit more... flamboyance. A patent application originally filed on December 12th, 2011 (and just made public today) details an "active electronic media device packaging," which outlines a method for packaging gizmos in a box that "may include one or more electrical traces in-molded or printed onto the packaging."

It gets a little ambiguous from there, but it sounds as if "one or more wireless power techniques" may be tapped into in order to keep marketing material humming when folks walk by. Speaking of which, the app also explains that POM sensors could be used to "detect various movements events," potentially activating as prospective consumers stroll by. To reiterate, an application for a patent doesn't mean that any of this stuff will get close to coming to fruition, but if you'd like to make absolutely sure you don't live in a world where products call to you from the shelves, we heard Sir Richard Branson can assist.

Apple patent app details 'active packaging,' a new level of window shopping originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 12:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Appledatamarketingmedia deviceMediaDevicepackagingpatentpatent apppatent applicationPatentAppPatentApplicationpowerpromotionThu, 05 Apr 2012 12:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patents Siri-like system for controlling cameras, PMPs through a computer or smartphone]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/29/apple-patents-siri-like-system-for-cameras-pmps/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/29/apple-patents-siri-like-system-for-cameras-pmps/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/29/apple-patents-siri-like-system-for-cameras-pmps/#comments Image"Siri, turn on the flash and take three pictures with my camera after waiting two seconds." Apple's intelligent voice control system has been wildly popular amongst consumers in the U.S., and abroad, but Siri could be making her way to other devices in the future, including iPods, cameras and other consumer electronics. "Okay, Rock God, I will take your picture in two, one..." A patent by Apple filed in 2010 but published today describes a scenario in which you could control a secondary electronic device using your voice, with all of the backend processing passing through a connected smartphone or computer. According to the patent:

One embodiment may include a first electronic device communicatively coupled to a server and to a second electronic device. The second electronic device may be a portable electronic device, such as a digital media player, that includes a voice user interface. The second electronic device may be capable of accurate speech recognition, but may not include additional computation hardware and/or software for training the speech recognition engine. As such, the bulk, weigh, and cost for manufacturing the second electronic device may be reduced, resulting in a more portable and affordable product.

In other words, you could have Siri-like control of virtually any device, with all of the required hardware and software residing on an iPhone or MacBook, linked with other devices over WiFi or Bluetooth. Voice control wouldn't be practical in all situations, but it could be enormously helpful for certain operations, like adjusting settings or reviewing images. Instead of scrolling through hundreds of images, you could simply say "Siri, show me pictures from last Thursday," and see exactly the shots you were searching for. As always, this is one of thousands of Apple patents, and it quite possibly may never come to fruition as described. But here's to hoping it will. "Siri, show our readers the patent application" -- you'll find it at the source link below.

Update: Well, it looks like we missed the mark a little bit here, as this is a patent application, not a granted patent. It's for a voice control system where a device receives voice commands and turns them into text using a speech-recognition algorithm received from a remote server -- which sounds an awful lot like Siri.

Apple patents Siri-like system for controlling cameras, PMPs through a computer or smartphone originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 11:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleapple patentApplePatentmobilepostcrosspatentpatent applicationpatent officePatentApplicationPatentOfficesirisoftwareus patentus patent and trademark officeUsPatentUsPatentAndTrademarkOfficeUSPTOvoice commandvoice commandsvoice controlvoice controlsVoiceCommandVoiceCommandsVoiceControlVoiceControlsThu, 29 Mar 2012 11:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent app portends gadgets made of glass]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/22/apple-patent-application-for-gadgets-made-of-glass/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/22/apple-patent-application-for-gadgets-made-of-glass/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/22/apple-patent-application-for-gadgets-made-of-glass/#comments ImageThought all those shattered screens and iPhone 4 backplates would push Apple towards making mobile devices machined from aluminum like its laptops and tablets? Think again, friends, because a newly published patent application from Cupertino indicates the company is considering crafting portable computing devices out of glass. The app claims a "substantially seamless enclosure . . . extruded in its entirety with glass material" so that wireless signals can freely flow to and fro, along with a method for manufacturing such a device. Naturally, this is only an application, and it doesn't say exactly what kind of super-durable glass would make this a desirous design change. So, who knows if we'll ever see an all-glass exterior on an iPhone or iPod, but you can get a more in-depth peek at that potential future at the source link below. You can also get a glance at what'll be Android's new anthem should that glass-filled future come to pass after the break.

Continue reading Apple patent app portends gadgets made of glass

Apple patent app portends gadgets made of glass originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Mar 2012 15:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleglassiphone 4Iphone4patentpatent applicationPatentApplicationusptoThu, 22 Mar 2012 15:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent application points to DJ-like beat matching, pairs iTunes with fist pumps]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/23/apple-patent-application-points-to-dj-like-beat-matching-itunes/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/23/apple-patent-application-points-to-dj-like-beat-matching-itunes/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/23/apple-patent-application-points-to-dj-like-beat-matching-itunes/#comments Once upon a less digital time, there existed the art of the mixtape: a tedious labor of love that required timing, taste and a penchant for musical progression. No longer in this iTunes-era, where personally curated song collections that once served as the background to our lives can now be automated by our dear friends in Cupertino. And, based on a patent application filed back in August of 2010, those Apple-made robo-playlists could get even smarter and slicker, with your perennially hip, millennial compadres being none the wiser. According to the claims covered, "an electronic device" (insert Mac or iOS product here) would be able to locate and interpret beats from a preceding AAC, MP3 or WMA file and crossfade them into those of the following track. In other words, it's a virtual disc jockey built into your machine; one that would supercede the currently available DJ feature. Whether or not this Sven Väth-like software will pan out in the company's favor remains to be seen. So, until that fateful day arrives, the creation of those fist-pumping, house mixes is better left to the few, the proud, the orange-skinned.

Apple patent application points to DJ-like beat matching, pairs iTunes with fist pumps originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 22:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Applebeat matchingBeatMatchingDJiTunesiTunes DJItunesDjpatent applicationPatentApplicationThu, 23 Feb 2012 22:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent shows designs for more accurate water damage sensors]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/20/apple-patent-shows-designs-for-more-accurate-water-damage-sensor/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/20/apple-patent-shows-designs-for-more-accurate-water-damage-sensor/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/20/apple-patent-shows-designs-for-more-accurate-water-damage-sensor/#comments Without a doubt, the purveyance of personal electronics has changed our lives -- not only have they put oodles of information at our fingertips, but they've also made pushing fully-clothed friends into the pool a warranty-voiding social faux pas. If you do get dunked, however, Apple wants to make sure you aren't going to blame your phone's apparent water damage on one of the (potentially faulty) detection stickers in use today, rather than your own perilous plunge. A new patent application uncovered by AppleInsider imagines an iDevice that detects water damage using a sensor covered in water soluble conductive glue that, when dissolved, allows the sensor to detect its absence and log damage. The patent outlines several different setups using one or more sensors, and hopes to provide a more reliable indicator of water damage than today's methods. Of course, you wouldn't have to worry about that if you were insured, would you?

Apple patent shows designs for more accurate water damage sensors originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 17:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applemobilepatent applicationPatentApplicationpatentsvoidwarrantywaterwater damagewater damage technologywater detection stickerwater solubleWaterDamageWaterDamageTechnologyWaterDetectionStickerWaterSolubleMon, 20 Feb 2012 17:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple applies for facial recognition patent, wants to let iDevices get to know you better]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/29/apple-applies-for-facial-recognition-patent-wants-to-let-idevic/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/29/apple-applies-for-facial-recognition-patent-wants-to-let-idevic/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/29/apple-applies-for-facial-recognition-patent-wants-to-let-idevic/#comments Your momma always said your handsome mug would take you places. Now it might allow you to access your iPad. An Apple patent application released today describes a facial recognition system that requires minimal computing power, and works whether you're indoors or out -- we don't use our tablets and phones in a photo booth, after all. The technology works by comparing a current image of your mug to a reference model user profile made using "high information" portions of the human face, like eyes and mouths. Translation: it'll take a picture, compare it against the pictures associated with various user accounts on the device and decide if the two images are similar enough to grant you access. Because this is just an application, it's safe to say we won't be seeing this kind of facial recognition in iOS anytime soon, but let's hope it works better than the ICS version if it does.

Update: An important thing to note is that Apple applied for this patent long before Android's Face Unlock debuted a few months back. The paperwork was first submitted on June 29th, 2010 -- it's just now being disclosed to the public.

Apple applies for facial recognition patent, wants to let iDevices get to know you better originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 29 Dec 2011 15:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleapplicationface recognitionFaceRecognitionfacialfacial recognitionFacialRecognitioniosiPadiphonelow threshold facial recognitionLowThresholdFacialRecognitionpatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationpatentsrecognitionusptoThu, 29 Dec 2011 15:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple applies for 'digital handshake' patent powered by invisible ink]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/apple-applies-for-digital-handshake-patent-powered-by-invisibl/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/apple-applies-for-digital-handshake-patent-powered-by-invisibl/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/apple-applies-for-digital-handshake-patent-powered-by-invisibl/#comments
Time for the usual disclaimer, since we're taking a journey into the murky world of Cupertino's patent applications -- it's just as likely we'll never see or hear of this tech again as it is to wind up in the next iPhone. While everyone else is betting on NFC, Apple wants to use next-generation cameras and invisible ink to negotiate digital handshakes. Snap a picture of a cash register with a barcode and your iDevice will generate a unique ID to pair up -- but in order to keep the technology secure, the codes would have to be painted on with "invisible" fluorescent coatings. When you're pairing two iPhones (for example) to share contacts, the key could be generated on one of the screens while the other took a picture of it. If this all seems too complex, boring and pointless now, just think: this could be how we log into Foursquare in a decade's time.

Apple applies for 'digital handshake' patent powered by invisible ink originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 15:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppleApple PatentApplePatentBluetoothDigital HandshakeDigitalHandshakeiPadiPhoneiPodMacBookNFCPairingPatentPatent ApplicationPatentApplicationPatentsSocial NetworkSocialNetworkTap to ShareTapToShareTouch to ShareTouchToShareFri, 02 Dec 2011 15:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent application aims to keep iPhones shatter-proof with shock mounted glass]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/20/apple-patent-application-aims-to-keep-iphones-shatter-proof-with/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/20/apple-patent-application-aims-to-keep-iphones-shatter-proof-with/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/20/apple-patent-application-aims-to-keep-iphones-shatter-proof-with/#commentsFrom 'smart' pens to a smarter Siri, Apple's always attempting to find new ways to improve the iPhone, and the company's latest patent application wants to keep its crack-prone glass blemish free. Aptly named a "shock mounting cover glass in consumer electronic devices," the invention claims a tunable shock mount sandwiched between the phone's glass and other hardware. There's also plans for a sensor that can distinguish a "drop event" from normal phone movements and an actuator to prepare the shock mount for impact. Given that it's only at the application stage, we won't be seeing bombproof iPhone displays any time soon, but here's hoping it'll become a product reality someday. Mostly so we can see just how much of a beating it can take.

Apple patent application aims to keep iPhones shatter-proof with shock mounted glass originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 20 Nov 2011 00:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleglassinventioniphonemobilepostcrosspatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationpatentsshock mountshock mountedShockMountShockMountedSun, 20 Nov 2011 00:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patents workflow sharing using NFC, because it's never too late]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/16/apple-patents-workflow-sharing-using-nfc-because-its-never-too/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/16/apple-patents-workflow-sharing-using-nfc-because-its-never-too/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/16/apple-patents-workflow-sharing-using-nfc-because-its-never-too/#comments Two things that are guaranteed to mess with your brain: playing the oboe and reading dense Apple patent applications. You do find the occasional gem, but often you'll read scores of pages only to discover that the so-called invention has already been put to use by others. In this instance, Apple has successfully patented the idea of using NFC to establish a master/slave relationship between two smartphones, as a prelude to making a fully-fledged WiFi connection that allows the sharing of contact details or more complicated sequences of actions. Now, this is a smart idea, especially since the patent specifically talks about retail applications (shown above), but is the end result so wildly different to Android Beam or even Bump? Even Fujitsu came up with a similar concept for using NFC to trigger location-relevant workflows. Either there's some significant overlap here, or we've spent too long playing reed instruments.

Apple patents workflow sharing using NFC, because it's never too late originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 16 Nov 2011 14:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>android beamAndroidBeamapplecontact sharingContactSharingcupertinograntedgranted patentGrantedPatentmobilepostcrossNFCpatentpatent applicationpatent applicationsPatentApplicationPatentApplicationsretailUnited States Patent and Trademark OfficeUnitedStatesPatentAndTrademarkOfficeUSPTOworkflowwow-talent-guideWed, 16 Nov 2011 14:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent application keeps your private display private]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/apple-patent-application-keeps-your-private-display-private/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/apple-patent-application-keeps-your-private-display-private/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/apple-patent-application-keeps-your-private-display-private/#comments It always bears repeating that just because a company applies for a patent doesn't mean the thing will ever see the light of day as a real product. But really, it's the outlandishness that makes these things so fun sometimes. The decidedly clunkily named "Obfuscating the Display of Information and Removing the Obfuscation Using a Filter" details a technology for obscuring information on an electronic device via the addition of "artifacts" or the manipulation of the display's "color, frequency or polarity." Aspects can be obscured by different methods at the same time, so that different information will be blocked for individual users all staring at the same display. Also interesting is the use of a filter to decode the information -- something like a pair of glasses coming between the user and the device, which can be detected by the device itself. Not a very Apple-like addition, but hey, you never know. Sometimes the future's so bright you gotta wear shades.

Apple patent application keeps your private display private originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 26 Aug 2011 22:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleapple patentapple patent applicationApplePatentApplePatentApplicationglasseslegalobfuscationpatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationpatentsusptoFri, 26 Aug 2011 22:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent application imagines iPhones that learn the sweet sound of your voice]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/apple-patent-application-imagines-iphones-that-learn-the-sweet-s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/apple-patent-application-imagines-iphones-that-learn-the-sweet-s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/apple-patent-application-imagines-iphones-that-learn-the-sweet-s/#comments
Button-loathing Apple really wants people to stop dirtying its devices with sticky fingerprints. That's why it's applied for a patent that should improve the frustrating experience of using iOS's voice control -- precisely the kind of update we've been awaiting since Apple bought Siri last year. With the help of a technology billed as "User profiling for voice input processing," your device would identify your voice, check against a library of words associated with you without having to trawl through its entire dictionary. We just hope Apple doesn't do away with physical inputs entirely -- we'd hate to broadcast to the world all the guilty pleasures we have loaded on our iPods.

Apple patent application imagines iPhones that learn the sweet sound of your voice originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 26 Aug 2011 18:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppleApple PatentApplePatentiOSiOS 4iOS 5Ios4Ios5iPadiPhoneiPodmobilepostcrossmobilepostminiPatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationPatentsUser Profiling for voice input processingUserProfilingForVoiceInputProcessingUSPTOVoiceVoice CommandVoice Commandsvoice identificationVoice RecognitionVoiceCommandVoiceCommandsVoiceIdentificationVoiceRecognitionFri, 26 Aug 2011 18:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple snags MagSafe patent for iOS devices (update: it's a movable magnetic coupling)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/17/apple-snags-magsafe-patent-for-ios-devices/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/17/apple-snags-magsafe-patent-for-ios-devices/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/17/apple-snags-magsafe-patent-for-ios-devices/#comments We've all tripped on power cords, sending laptops or other precious items tumbling to the ground. With the introduction of the MagSafe connector, back in 2006, Apple fixed the problem for clumsy MacBook owners, but has since left plugged-in iPad users up a creek. Cupertino was awarded a patent yesterday to integrate the magnetic (trip-safe) cord into future iOS devices like the iPad, potentially solving the dilemma for good. The Haus of Jobs also snagged patents for magnetic assembly and a "securing system," whatever that means.

Update: Oops! While the patent does mention the possibility of integrating this technology into a "tablet computer" or "cell phone," what we're looking at isn't actually a MagSafe patent specifically for iOS devices -- it's a movable magnetic coupling.

Apple snags MagSafe patent for iOS devices (update: it's a movable magnetic coupling) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 19:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoryadapterappleiosipadiPad 3Ipad3ipadsmacmacsmagsafepatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationpatentsusptoWed, 17 Aug 2011 19:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent application proves that Steve Jobs hates fingerprints as much as you do, probably more]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/12/apple-patent-application-proves-that-steve-jobs-hates-fingerprin/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/12/apple-patent-application-proves-that-steve-jobs-hates-fingerprin/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/12/apple-patent-application-proves-that-steve-jobs-hates-fingerprin/#comments Steve Jobs doesn't like fingerprints any more than you do, and given the man's focus on aesthetic perfection, we suspect that smudged displays are the sort of thing that keeps him awake at night. Apple has certainly flirted with oleophobic anti-grease displays in the past, but a newly surfaced patent application takes the whole thing to a new level. "Direct Liquid Vaporization for Oleophobic Coatings" outlines an intense process for the application of a grease resistant coating, whereby the substance is "placed in a liquid supply system coupled to a vacuum chamber," pressurized, vaporized, and then deposited. Take that, finger grease.

Apple patent application proves that Steve Jobs hates fingerprints as much as you do, probably more originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 12 Aug 2011 20:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appledisplaygreaseoleophobicoleophobic coatingoleophobic screenOleophobicCoatingOleophobicScreenpatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationscreenUSPTOFri, 12 Aug 2011 20:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple pico projector patent application makes shared workspaces fun again]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/apple-pico-projector-patent-application-makes-shared-workspaces/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/apple-pico-projector-patent-application-makes-shared-workspaces/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/apple-pico-projector-patent-application-makes-shared-workspaces/#comments Really, there's nothing new in Apple's patent flirtation with the world of projection, but the latest application does take things to a whole new level, with pico projectors connected to the iPhone, iPad and MacBook. Cupertino's "Projected Display Shared Workspaces" patent application details a utopian universe wherein tiny projectors are connected to Apple products, with communication links across devices that allow for the sharing of image data between projected displays in the aforementioned "shared workspaces." Oh, and included cameras let the user interact with the displays via gestures, Wii-style, which puts our old projector shadow puppet shows to shame.

Gallery: Apple pico projector patent app

Apple pico projector patent application makes shared workspaces fun again originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 16:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleipadiphonemacbookpatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationpicopico projectorPicoProjectorprojectorThu, 11 Aug 2011 16:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple's carrier ranking patent application hints at global iPhone]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/apples-carrier-ranking-patent-application-hints-at-global-iphon/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/apples-carrier-ranking-patent-application-hints-at-global-iphon/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/apples-carrier-ranking-patent-application-hints-at-global-iphon/#comments Apple may be hard at work creating the one phone to rule them all (around the world), if this latest patent application is any indication. The filing, first submitted in April of last year, describes a software-based method of determining carrier rankings, allowing owners to browse through a database of network-specific features, such as voice and data, to determine their best fit and sign-up for service. Ideally, this future iPhone set-up would come courtesy of a truly global phone, packing all the necessary radios and software to surf along the globe's wireless frequencies sans extra SIM cards. Rumors of an open handset have been circling Cupertino for a bit, much to the dismay of operators who fear the move would diminish their function as the industry's gatekeeper, shifting power to consumers. Certainly, Jobs and co. have a high hurdle to overcome if this purported world phone is to ever become a reality. In the meantime, why not just snag an unlocked device?

[Thanks, Neil]

Apple's carrier ranking patent application hints at global iPhone originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 13:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppleApple iPhoneAppleIphonecarrier rankingCarrierRankingfilingglobal phoneGlobalPhonemobileopen handsetopen simOpenHandsetOpenSimpatent applicationpatent applicationsPatentApplicationPatentApplicationsSIMSIM cardSIM cardsSimCardSimCardsunlockedunlocked phonesUnlockedPhonesworld phoneWorldPhoneThu, 11 Aug 2011 13:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple's inductive charging patent application finally puts its earbuds to good use]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/apples-inductive-charging-patent-application-finally-put-its-ea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/apples-inductive-charging-patent-application-finally-put-its-ea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/apples-inductive-charging-patent-application-finally-put-its-ea/#comments How seriously is Apple considering the possibility of adding inductive charging to its line of iOS devices? Seriously enough to submit some crudely drawn images to the USPTO, at least. The company's application for "Using an Audio Cable as an Inductive Charging Coil" surfaced today, featuring some interesting solutions to the problem of inductive charging. The first looks a bit like an iPhone scratching post. It's a big monolith you wrap an audio cord around several times, effectively turning the cable into an inductive receiving coil. The earphones in the example have a metal mesh that serve as a contact for charging the device.

Another proposed system also puts the earphones to work -- though without the need for that giant charging post. Instead the headphones slip into an acoustic charger, which cause their speakers to vibrate, creating a current that charges the device. As ever, just because a patent application surfaces doesn't mean a final product will ever see the light of day -- and these methods (particularly that big charging post) do seem like a long way to go to shave off the precious millimeters that inductive charging traditionally brings. But hey, Apple's all about the svelte devices, and stranger things have certainly happened.

Gallery: Apple inductive charging patent surfaces

Apple's inductive charging patent application finally puts its earbuds to good use originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 04 Aug 2011 10:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applechargingearbudsearphonesheadphonesinductive chargingInductiveChargingiospatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationThu, 04 Aug 2011 10:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent application takes the hard keys out of the keyboard, promises a flat surface solution]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/25/apple-patent-application-takes-the-hard-keys-out-of-the-keyboard/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/25/apple-patent-application-takes-the-hard-keys-out-of-the-keyboard/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/25/apple-patent-application-takes-the-hard-keys-out-of-the-keyboard/#comments Apple's giving us a patent application peek into its post-PC future, and it looks like hard keys will be so 2008. The recently revealed filing shows off a virtual, flat keyboard concept for Cupertino's line of non-iOS products that flirts with metal, plastic and glass form factors. Using a combination of piezoelectrics, haptic feedback and acoustic pulse recognition, these prospective designs will be able to detect your finger-pounding surface input. If you're the fast-typing kind, you're probably wondering how your digits will recognize the keys sight unseen. Well, there's a few workarounds for that. In its metal and plastic iterations, Jobs and co. plan to stamp or micro-perforate the layout into place, while their glass counterpart would receive a graphical overlay. The application also promises an LED-lit display for hard to see conditions and the inclusion of capactive sensors to enable multi-touch functions, so you avoid e.e. cummings-style emails. Of course, applications aren't necessarily indicative of a surefire product, but those interested in tickling their imagination can give the source link a look.

Apple patent application takes the hard keys out of the keyboard, promises a flat surface solution originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 25 Jul 2011 22:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acoustic pulse recognitionAcousticPulseRecognitionAppleCupertinofilingflat surface keyboardFlatSurfaceKeyboardhaptic feedbackHapticFeedbackiMackeyboardkeyboardsmacbook airmacbook proMacbookAirMacbookProOS X LionOsXLionpatent applicationpatent applicationsPatentApplicationPatentApplicationspiezoelectricpiezoelectricsSteve JobsSteveJobsvirtual keyboardVirtualKeyboardMon, 25 Jul 2011 22:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple seeks patents for 3D and 'physics metaphor' gesture controls]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/11/apple-seeks-patents-for-3d-and-physics-metaphor-gesture-contro/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/11/apple-seeks-patents-for-3d-and-physics-metaphor-gesture-contro/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/11/apple-seeks-patents-for-3d-and-physics-metaphor-gesture-contro/#comments Deep in the stodgy bowels of the USPTO sits a folder full of Apple patent applications specifically for gesture controls. A few more pages from that expanding tome were just made public, and the concepts unearthed are certainly thought-provoking. The first involves using a proximity sensor in addition to the touch panel to register gestures in 3D. For example, you could use three fingers to mark out the corners of a triangle on the screen and then "pull up" and pinch to create a pyramid for use in a CAD application. The second idea involves gestures based on intuitive "physics metaphors" that are recognized using motion sensors. So instead of navigating menus in order to start a file transfer between an iPhone and iPad, the user could arrange the desired files on the phone's screen and then pretend to "pour" them onto the tablet -- an idea which rather reminds of the funky Project Blox. Oh, did we just make a Cupertino lawyer twitch?

Apple seeks patents for 3D and 'physics metaphor' gesture controls originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 11 Jul 2011 22:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3D3D gesture3dGestureApplegesturegesture controlGestureControlgesturesintuitivemetaphormotionmotion sensorMotionSensorpatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationphysicsphysics metaphorPhysicsMetaphorproximityproximity sensorProximitySensorUSPTOMon, 11 Jul 2011 22:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple seeks to spruce up the real world with interactive augmented reality, has the patent apps to prove it]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/08/apple-seeks-to-spruce-up-the-real-world-with-interactive-augment/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/08/apple-seeks-to-spruce-up-the-real-world-with-interactive-augment/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/08/apple-seeks-to-spruce-up-the-real-world-with-interactive-augment/#comments When we go somewhere new, we wish we could spend more time taking in the sights and less time looking at our phone for directions and info about our surroundings. Apple's well aware of this conundrum, and has filed a couple of patent applications to let you ogle your environment while telling you where to go and what you're seeing. One app is a method for combining augmented reality (AR) information and real time video while allowing users to interact with the images on screen -- so you can shoot a vid of a city skyline with your iPhone, touch a building where you want to go, and let it show you the way there. The second patent application is for a device with an LCD display capable of creating a transparent window, where the opacity of the screen's pixels is changed by varying the voltage levels driving them. Such a display could overlay interactive info about what you see through the window, so you can actually look at the Mona Lisa while reading up on her mysterious grin. Of course, these are just patent applications, so we probably won't be seeing any AR-optimized iDevices anytime soon (if ever), but we can dream, right?

Apple seeks to spruce up the real world with interactive augmented reality, has the patent apps to prove it originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 08 Jul 2011 12:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleaugmented realityAugmentedRealityinteractiveipadiphoneipod touchIpodTouchpatentpatent apppatent applicationpatent applicationsPatentAppPatentApplicationPatentApplicationspatentstouchscreentransparent displaytransparent screenTransparentDisplayTransparentScreenFri, 08 Jul 2011 12:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent apps describe 'smart' pens for notetaking and long-distance doodling]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/07/apple-patent-apps-describe-smart-pens-for-notetaking-and-long/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/07/apple-patent-apps-describe-smart-pens-for-notetaking-and-long/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/07/apple-patent-apps-describe-smart-pens-for-notetaking-and-long/#comments Apple's knack for filing patent applications has struck again, offering a pair of digital pens that could become a competitive one-up for HTC's Scribe pen. Both filed apps revealed by the USPTO involve styli for iOS displays, but if you're imagining a magical item that helps (or hinders) your typing, this is another ball of wax. The first stylus is appropriately called "stylus for touch sensitive devices" and includes a rechargeable battery that could be stored and charged by placing it in a dock embedded directly in the device. Curiously, the stylus is heated for "more consistent interaction between the capacitive-sensors in the computing device and the stylus," which sounds mighty nice on a cold day. By allowing the user to easily write real notes and draw pictures, this patent turns out to be much more than just a different method of inputting text.

Next up is the "communicating stylus," a digital pen equipped with accelerometers and wireless transmitters that send position data. This would enable it to be used for an iOS device without any physical contact or other accessories. In theory, you could take the stylus (shown after the break) across the room and still jot down notes or doodle on your iPad, even if it's out of sight. Finally, "the greatest pointing device in the world" -- our fingers -- will get a chance to rest.

Continue reading Apple patent apps describe 'smart' pens for notetaking and long-distance doodling

Apple patent apps describe 'smart' pens for notetaking and long-distance doodling originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 07 Jul 2011 12:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Appleapple patentapple penApplePatentApplePencapacitive touchscreenCapacitiveTouchscreendigital penDigitalPeniOSipadiphoneiphone 3gsiphone 4Iphone3gsIphone4patent applicationPatentApplicationpatentspenstylistylusus patentUsPatentusptowireless stylusWirelessStylusThu, 07 Jul 2011 12:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent application highlights location-based social networking, encourages intimate pinging]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/16/apple-patent-highlights-location-based-social-networking-encour/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/16/apple-patent-highlights-location-based-social-networking-encour/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/16/apple-patent-highlights-location-based-social-networking-encour/#comments Making friends is hard. Apple knows this. In fact, the company outlined such difficulty in a newly surfaced patent, highlighting the sort of "long and awkward conversation" sometimes required to discover common interests. The patent application, filed back in late-2009, describes a location-based social network that helps users discover people in their vicinity, based on common interests like books, movies, and, naturally, music. Of course, Cupertino already dipped its toes in the social networking waters with the iTunes-based Ping, which, in spite of initial excitement, failed to really capture the imagination of Apple's dedicated base. And this isn't the first time the company has flirted with the idea of location-based social networking either, as a patent that surfaced halfway through last year can attest. The company has clearly learned its lesson with this one, however, and that lesson is: more drawings of women winking and references to Springsteen songs in the application process.

Apple patent application highlights location-based social networking, encourages intimate pinging originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Jun 2011 11:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applebooksdiscoveryituneslocationlocation-basedlocation-based servicesLocation-basedServicesmoviesmusicpatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationsocialsocial networkingSocialNetworkingThu, 16 Jun 2011 11:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent app sheds light on wireless charging dreams, NFMR love affair]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/apple-patent-app-sheds-light-on-wireless-charging-dreams-nfmr-l/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/apple-patent-app-sheds-light-on-wireless-charging-dreams-nfmr-l/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/apple-patent-app-sheds-light-on-wireless-charging-dreams-nfmr-l/#comments Apple threw quite the wireless party by introducing PC Free and iCloud at yesterday's WWDC keynote, but it seems that the engineers in Cupertino may have even more tricks up their sleeve. Judging by a recently filed patent application, the company's hoping to add charging to its list of cord-cutting services. Specifically, the patent describes building a NFMR (near-field magnetic resolution) power supply directly into your iMac so it can charge your iPhone, iPad, or even peripherals -- such as a keyboard or mouse, when equipped with a special antenna -- without the assistance of your ol' trusty charging cords or batteries. Sporting a somewhat mature iMac that's operating sans NFMR? Pop a special USB dongle in that bad boy and presto, you're good to go. The patent points out that the range is limited to one meter, though there may be ways to install repeaters in peripherals to extend that distance further. Of course, patents won't guarantee we'll be grabbing the scissors to cut our cords anytime soon, but at least we won't have to rely on these things for the rest of eternity.

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Apple patent app sheds light on wireless charging dreams, NFMR love affair originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Jun 2011 09:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaapplechargechargingdongleelectricityenergyiMacinductive chargingInductiveChargingiOSiPadiPhoneiPod TouchIpodTouchNFMRpatentpatent apppatent applicationPatentAppPatentApplicationperipheralspowerrepeaterusbUSB dongleUsbDonglewirelesswireless chargingWirelessChargingTue, 07 Jun 2011 09:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple camera patent could stop smartphone bootleggers in their tracks]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/02/apple-camera-patent-could-stop-smartphone-bootleggers-in-their-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/02/apple-camera-patent-could-stop-smartphone-bootleggers-in-their-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/02/apple-camera-patent-could-stop-smartphone-bootleggers-in-their-t/#comments Apple Infrared Camera System Apple is always filing patents for strange and fantastic things that never seem to find their way into actual products. But an application published today details some interesting tech that we could actually see getting jammed into a future iPhone (for better or worse). By pairing an infrared sensor with the camera already on board, portable devices could receive data from transmitters placed, well, wherever. Beyond simply blasting out text and opening links like a glorified QR code, transmitters could disable certain features, such as the camera, to prevent recording at movie theaters and music venues. If completely shutting off the cam seems a bit heavy-handed, watermarks can also be applied to photos identifying businesses or copyrighted content. Some potential uses are a little less Big Brother, like museums beaming information about exhibits to a user's or launching an audio tour. Obviously third parties would have to get behind the IR push and there's no guarantee that Apple will put this in a future iProduct. Still, we're a little worried that the days of blurry YouTube concert videos may be coming to an end.

Apple camera patent could stop smartphone bootleggers in their tracks originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 02 Jun 2011 20:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleARaugmented realityAugmentedRealityautomationcameradataInfraredinfrared cameraInfraredCameraiosiPadiphonepatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationtransmittertransmittersThu, 02 Jun 2011 20:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple wants to make your calendar sensitive to location and traffic, get you there on time]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/02/apple-wants-to-make-your-calendar-sensitive-to-location-and-traf/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/02/apple-wants-to-make-your-calendar-sensitive-to-location-and-traf/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/02/apple-wants-to-make-your-calendar-sensitive-to-location-and-traf/#comments As Apple rushed to allay privacy concerns over its handling of location data, it also let slip that it was working on a "crowd-sourced traffic database". Now a patent application dating from 2009 has been made public which suggests Apple is thinking of this technology not merely as an add-on to iOS Maps, but as something which could feed into other areas such as calendars and alarms. The implicit suggestion is that if Apple can figure out how long it will take you to get from A to B, then it should be able to adjust your appointments to make sure you get there on time without having to go on a rampage. Until then, if everyone just stays out of the way, then no one will get hurt.

Apple wants to make your calendar sensitive to location and traffic, get you there on time originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 02 Jun 2011 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applecrowd-sourcedcrowdsourcecrowdsourcedcrowdsourcingiOSios mapsIosMapsmapmappingmapspatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationpatentsTraffictraffic jamtraffic updatesTrafficJamTrafficUpdatesThu, 02 Jun 2011 15:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent application reveals an LCD with switchable, privacy-protecting viewing angles]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/22/apple-patent-application-reveals-an-lcd-with-switchable-privacy/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/22/apple-patent-application-reveals-an-lcd-with-switchable-privacy/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/22/apple-patent-application-reveals-an-lcd-with-switchable-privacy/#comments Don't you hate it when the guy next to you on the subway is looking over your shoulder, watching you screw up in Fruit Ninja? Well, Apple could have predicted your discomfort -- back in November 2009, before the iPad was anything more than a unicorn, the company applied for a patent on an LCD display with adjustable viewing angles, explicitly designed to "shield the display away from unintended viewers." According to the filing, the display would include steering modules made of liquid crystal material, which aim the so-called scattering modules that sit on top of them. The top layer then redirects the light, making it possible to narrow down and alter the viewing angle. The patent specifically calls out cellphones and laptops, paving the way for discreet displays on MacBooks and iPhones, though the broad phrase "other portable electronic devices" leaves plenty of room for iPads and iPod Touches. No word, of course, on when or if Apple will secure this patent and if so, what devices might incorporate such screens. We may just be seeing this concept go public now, but it seems consumers could use this even more today than they did back in the fall of '09, when all they had to worry about was a stranger squinting at their 3GS' 3.5-inch screen.

Continue reading Apple patent application reveals an LCD with switchable, privacy-protecting viewing angles

Apple patent application reveals an LCD with switchable, privacy-protecting viewing angles originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 22 May 2011 05:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adjustableAppledisplayiPadiPhoneipod touchIpodTouchlaptopLCDmacbookpatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationprivacyprivatescreentabletUSPTOviewing angleViewingAngleSun, 22 May 2011 05:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent application suggests partial storage of music to speed up streaming]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/19/apple-patent-application-suggests-partial-storage-of-music-to-sp/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/19/apple-patent-application-suggests-partial-storage-of-music-to-sp/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/19/apple-patent-application-suggests-partial-storage-of-music-to-sp/#comments Could Apple's forthcoming cloud-based music service have a leg up in speed compared to its competitors? It might if a recently published patent application from the company actually pans out. It suggests that just a snippet of the beginning of a song (or movie, for that matter) could be stored locally on a device, and then be synced to the complete version in the cloud, which would let you begin playback "immediately" rather than having to wait for the usual buffering to take place. The patent application also explains that the streaming playback could be adjusted based on the type of communications network, and that there would naturally be various means to authenticate your device and ensure that you actually own the music you're streaming. Of course, there's no guarantee that such a system will indeed be a part of Apple's seemingly imminent streaming service, but the patent application was filed way back in November of 2009, which certainly means it's had plenty of time to implement it if it chose to.

Apple patent application suggests partial storage of music to speed up streaming originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 19 May 2011 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applecloudcloud-basedicloudiosiphoneipodmusicpatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationstreamingstreaming musicStreamingMusicThu, 19 May 2011 18:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Nuance voices found in OS X Lion, patent application suggests new iPhone speech / text capabilities]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/16/nuance-voices-found-in-os-x-lion-patent-application-suggests-ne/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/16/nuance-voices-found-in-os-x-lion-patent-application-suggests-ne/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/16/nuance-voices-found-in-os-x-lion-patent-application-suggests-ne/#comments
Apple's certainly no stranger to speech recognition, but it looks like it may have enlisted a bit of outside help for the next version of OS X, otherwise known as Lion. As Netputing reports, some of the text-to-speech voice options available in the developer preview of Lion just so happen to match the voices available from Nuance -- which would seem to suggest a partnership or licensing agreement of some sort, as the voices themselves cost $45 apiece directly from Nuance. In somewhat related news, Apple has also recently filed a patent application that would bring some fairly extensive new speech recognition options to the iPhone -- if it ever actually moves beyond a patent application, that is. In short, it would let you either instantly have a phone call converted to text, or send some text and have it converted to voice on the other end -- which the application notes could come in handy both in noisy environments or in situations where you simply aren't able to talk. It would even apparently incorporate a noise meter that could automatically trigger various options when the ambient noise hits a certain level. Hit up the source link below for a closer look at how it would work.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Nuance voices found in OS X Lion, patent application suggests new iPhone speech / text capabilities originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 16 May 2011 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleiphonenuancepatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationspeechspeech recognitionspeech to textSpeechRecognitionSpeechToTexttext to speechTextToSpeechMon, 16 May 2011 15:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent application shows keyboard that doesn't require contact, blows air]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/13/apple-patent-application-shows-keyboard-that-doesnt-require-con/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/13/apple-patent-application-shows-keyboard-that-doesnt-require-con/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/13/apple-patent-application-shows-keyboard-that-doesnt-require-con/#comments We've been generally satisfied with the chiclet-style keyboards that have become omnipresent in laptops and Apple's latest generation of desktop keyboards, but Cupertino feels that these thinner, lower-profile input devices limit tactile feedback. A patent application from Apple, filed in 2009 but only now revealed, aims to improve the user experience by "expelling air from the input device proximate the key when user selection is imminent." That's right -- your keyboard could blow on your fingertips as you blow our minds in the comments. Another solution in the patent would function like a vacuum to pull keys away when a proximity sensor detects that you're about to type, providing simulated feedback. If this concept takes off in the future, your next MacBook Air could really live up to its name.

Apple patent application shows keyboard that doesn't require contact, blows air originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 13 May 2011 10:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Appleapple keyboardapple keyboard patentapple macbookApple patentAppleKeyboardAppleKeyboardPatentAppleMacbookApplePatentchiclet keyboardChicletKeyboardimacimac keyboardImacKeyboardmacbookmacbook airmacbook air keyboardMacbookAirMacbookAirKeyboardpatentpatent apppatent applicationPatentAppPatentApplicationpatentsFri, 13 May 2011 10:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent application suggest iPod nano could become even more of a 'fashion accessory']]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/13/apple-patent-application-suggest-ipod-nano-could-become-even-mor/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/13/apple-patent-application-suggest-ipod-nano-could-become-even-mor/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/13/apple-patent-application-suggest-ipod-nano-could-become-even-mor/#comments
There's no guarantee that it will show up in the next iPod nano -- or any iPod nano at all, for that matter -- but a newly published patent application has now offered a few more hints about how Apple might make such a device even more wearable. Titled simply, "Environment Sensitive Display Tags," the patent application details how a small, wearable device could use a variety of sensors and inputs (including a camera, microphone, accelerometer -- even a thermometer) to obtain information about its surroundings and translate that into a visual element that's displayed on the screen. So, for instance, the camera could be used to create a background that matches your shirt or jacket, or the accelerometer could be used to make a screen saver react to your movements (like the rain drops illustrated above). All of which, the application suggests, could serve to make the device even more "aesthetically pleasing" as a "fashion accessory."

Incidentally, the patent application also noticeably features "Games" as a menu option in some of the illustrations -- which would be new to the current variety of iPod nano -- but there's no mention of it in the actual claims. And, given that it was filed back in November of 2009, the application's authors could well have simply been working on the assumption that games would simply carry over from the previous generation.

Apple patent application suggest iPod nano could become even more of a 'fashion accessory' originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 13 May 2011 04:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applecameradynamic tagsDynamicTagsEnvironment Sensitive Display TagsEnvironmentSensitiveDisplayTagsgamesipodipod nanoIpodNanopatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationsensorsFri, 13 May 2011 04:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent application reveals more projector possibilities, including a projector-equipped laptop]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/15/apple-patent-application-reveals-more-projector-possiblities-in/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/15/apple-patent-application-reveals-more-projector-possiblities-in/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/15/apple-patent-application-reveals-more-projector-possiblities-in/#comments
We've already seen a few patent applications that suggest Apple is at least mulling over the idea of using projectors for one purpose or another, and another newly published one has now offered a bit more fodder for speculation. Described as a "display system having coherent and incoherent light sources," the patent application suggests that the projector would be laser-based, and be both cheaper and more power efficient than conventional light projectors, while also overcoming the so-called "speckle" problem sometimes seen with laser projectors. What's perhaps most interesting, however, is that the patent application also suggests the projector could be integrated into other devices -- in fact, one of the claims specifically mentions a laptop with an integrated projector, as artfully illustrated above.

Apple patent application reveals more projector possibilities, including a projector-equipped laptop originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applelaptoplaserlaser projectorLaserProjectorpatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationpico projectorPicoProjectorprojectorFri, 15 Apr 2011 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent application reveals plans for external battery pack, spells further trouble for HyperMac]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/01/apple-patent-application-reveals-plans-for-external-battery-pack/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/01/apple-patent-application-reveals-plans-for-external-battery-pack/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/01/apple-patent-application-reveals-plans-for-external-battery-pack/#comments Way back in September of last year, Apple filed a patent-infringement suit against HyperMac, the folks behind these external batteries. At the time, it looked like Apple was protecting its patented MagSafe power connector, but a newly released USPTO application for a "Power Adapter with Internal Battery" might reveal a more accurate view of the company's litigious motivations. From the look of things, the outfit intends to make its mark on juicing solutions with what is basically a wall charger packing an internal battery. According to the patent filing, the contraption would include a processor for parceling energy to the host device as well as the adapter, and could also incorporate a supplemental energy source like a solar cell. Among other things, it would also communicate with the device being charged to allow users to monitor the juice stored in the extra battery. If the thing does end up making it to market, it looks like HyperMac could have a whole lot more trouble on its hands than a little patent-infringement suit.

Apple patent application reveals plans for external battery pack, spells further trouble for HyperMac originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Apr 2011 18:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappleapple insiderAppleInsiderbatterychargingexternalexternal batteryexternal battery packExternalBatteryExternalBatteryPackhypermacmacmacbookmacbook proMacbookPropackpatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationpatentspower adapterpower adapter with internal batteryPowerAdapterPowerAdapterWithInternalBatterysolarsolar cellSolarCellus patentus patent and trademark officeus patent officeus patentsUsPatentUsPatentAndTrademarkOfficeUsPatentOfficeUsPatentsUSPTOFri, 01 Apr 2011 18:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent woos with tales of ultra-slim audio connectors for lusciously thin devices]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/14/apple-patent-woos-with-tales-of-ultra-slim-audio-connectors-for/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/14/apple-patent-woos-with-tales-of-ultra-slim-audio-connectors-for/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/14/apple-patent-woos-with-tales-of-ultra-slim-audio-connectors-for/#commentsApple patent woos with tales of ultra-slim audio connectors for ultra-slim devices We're still a long way from reaching the point where our gadgets can't get any thinner and, while the 8.7mm iPod Shuffle is just about king of the hill for the moment, Apple is already envisioning a future where where the humble 3.5mm audio jack is too thick. A recently revealed patent application called "Low Profile Plug Receptacle" describes a number of different ways to create audio ports that are thinner than current models but yet won't take us back to the sinister miniUSB adapter days of yore. One of the potential solutions has a "semi-flexible" housing that expands willingly to receive your headphones' clumsy attentions, while another is recessed beneath a pair of doors that flip open to make room when the plug is inserted. As always with these applications there's no reason to believe they'll be ever appearing in a consumer device, but that doesn't mean we can't dream of a future where the gold-plated jack on your buds is thicker than the bulkiest part of your phone.

Apple patent woos with tales of ultra-slim audio connectors for lusciously thin devices originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 14 Mar 2011 13:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.5 mm3.5Mmappleflexibleheadphone jackHeadphoneJackpatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationsemi-flexiblethinthin deviceThinDevicethinnessusptoMon, 14 Mar 2011 13:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent application for 'Dynamically Generated Ring Tones' could make magical videos of your friends]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/10/apple-patent-application-for-dynamically-generated-ring-tones/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/10/apple-patent-application-for-dynamically-generated-ring-tones/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/10/apple-patent-application-for-dynamically-generated-ring-tones/#commentsApple Patent Ever wish life was like a movie, that theme songs went to highlight your every dramatic action? This patent application from Cupertino isn't quite like that, but it's close, basically creating dynamic music videos for your friends when they call. It describes a means of stitching together video and audio sequences of the caller and dynamically composting them to create a beautiful little ditty celebrating your BFF -- or your mother in law, as it were. Such sequences are to be generated by so-called "seed" songs or videos, content that can either be stored directly on the recipient's phone or pulled from Genius data stored in the ether. There's potential here for great stuff, but we already dread a future where data comes from browsing habits and instead of cool tunes and video sequences we're served jingles and McDonald's commercials.

Apple patent application for 'Dynamically Generated Ring Tones' could make magical videos of your friends originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 10 Mar 2011 02:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applegeniusiphonepatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationusptoThu, 10 Mar 2011 02:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent application points to denser batteries, improved charging technique]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/20/apple-patent-application-points-to-denser-batteries-improved-ch/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/20/apple-patent-application-points-to-denser-batteries-improved-ch/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/20/apple-patent-application-points-to-denser-batteries-improved-ch/#comments Some might think a ten-hour Macbook battery mighty fine, but we're happy to say that Cupertino's not quite satisfied. AppleInsider spotted a pair of Apple patent applications detailing a improved way of juicing up those lithium-polymer cells, which should greatly increase the number of recharge cycles they can endure -- or, optionally, allow Apple to use denser batteries that last longer on a charge. We'll break it down for you: the graph in the upper-left shows how Li-ion batteries currently charge, first very rapidly (constant current, increasing voltage) and then more slowly (constant voltage, decreasing current) to top the cells off.

What Apple's proposing is the multi-step method depicted on the right, where current and voltage trade off, to charge the battery while being far less harsh on the physical chemistry of the electrodes inside. As you can see in the bottom graph, the multi-step CC-CV cells lose much less of their potential after 300 recharge cycles, but that's not all Apple's cooking up -- the company figures that it can increase the thickness of the electrodes to improve battery life (by as much as 28Wh/L, according to one chart) without negative effect thanks to the softer charge. Sure, we'd rather have plant-eating graphene supercapcitors, but this sounds like a plan for now.

Apple patent application points to denser batteries, improved charging technique originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 20 Feb 2011 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Applebatteriesbatterybattery lifeBatteryLifechargingcurrentelectricityli-ionlithium ionlithium polymerlithium-ionLithiumIonLithiumPolymermulti-step chargingMulti-stepChargingpatentpatent apppatent applicationPatentAppPatentApplicationpatentsvoltageSun, 20 Feb 2011 15:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent application suggests yet more possible gestures for iPods]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/06/apple-patent-application-suggests-yet-more-possible-gestures-for/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/06/apple-patent-application-suggests-yet-more-possible-gestures-for/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/06/apple-patent-application-suggests-yet-more-possible-gestures-for/#comments
Apple's already put some basic gesture controls to use on its sixth generation iPod nano, but a recently published patent application suggests that it may have some grander designs for a no-look interface of sorts. As you can see above, Apple's using a nano in its illustrations for the patent, but the actual claims suggest that the gestures wouldn't necessarily require a screen at all -- possibly for something similar to that back-side interface that also turned up in an Apple patent application? As for the gestures themselves, they'd apparently involve things like a single tap to pause or play, a double tap to skip forward, a triple tap to skip back, and a circular motion to control the volume. Of course, that aforementioned patent application was published in 2007 and we've yet to see anything result from it, so you may not want to hold your breath for this one either.

Apple patent application suggests yet more possible gestures for iPods originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 03:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applegesturegesturesipodipod nanoIpodNanomultitouchpatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationThu, 06 Jan 2011 03:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple granted patent behind new iTunes extras features]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/apple-granted-patent-behind-new-itunes-extras-features/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/apple-granted-patent-behind-new-itunes-extras-features/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/apple-granted-patent-behind-new-itunes-extras-features/#comments Today, Apple was granted a patent covering the ability to sync movie extra features with particular times or locations in videos. This is the same technology Sony is quietly testing now in the iTunes store with The Other Guys, Salt, and Resident Evil: Afterlife in which movie buyers can enter search terms to see scenes in the movie where that term was used. Since the extra features are only available for iTunes content, like iTunes LP, Apple clearly hopes to woo bonus feature-loving consumers to purchase digital copies over Blu-rays or DVDs. Of course if this strategy is going to succeed, you'd think Cupertino would want to expand support for iTunes extras beyond the original Apple TV and the desktop to include the one million second generation Apple TVs sold and three million plus iPhone 4s out there. But hey, what do we know?

Apple granted patent behind new iTunes extras features originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 09:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppleApple patentapple patent filingApple patentsApple TVApplePatentApplePatentFilingApplePatentsAppleTvbonus featuresBonusFeaturesextra featuresExtraFeatureshdiTunesitunes 10iTunes Extraitunes extrasitunes lpitunes storeitunes videoItunes10ItunesExtraItunesExtrasItunesLpItunesStoreItunesVideopatent applicationPatentApplicationpatentsSONYWed, 05 Jan 2011 09:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple applies for 'logo antenna' patent, hides your resonator behind the brand indicator]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/24/apple-applies-for-logo-antenna-patent-hides-your-resonator-be/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/24/apple-applies-for-logo-antenna-patent-hides-your-resonator-be/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/24/apple-applies-for-logo-antenna-patent-hides-your-resonator-be/#commentsApple applies for 'logo antenna' patent, hides your resonator behind the brand indicator Embedding an antenna in the external body of a phone? Maybe not such a good idea. Hiding it behind the logo sounds a little more practical, and that's the idea Apple wrote up in a patent application dated June 17th, 2009, back before we knew antennas and gates could be so wickedly conjoined. That was also before we knew about the iPad, which seems to have one of these so-called "logo antennas" within it, as found when iFixit did their dirty thing. The same can be said for iMacs, which also have antennas peering through an apple-shaped hole to avoid any reception issues caused by an aluminum chassis. It looks to be a good solution, but not exactly a novel one. In roaming around the USPTO archives we found a similar 2003 patent from Dell also called "Logo Antenna," the big difference being that while Apple's logo forms a window for the antenna the logo in Dell's patent actually is the antenna.

Apple applies for 'logo antenna' patent, hides your resonator behind the brand indicator originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 24 Dec 2010 09:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaappleimacipadlogologo antennaLogoAntennapatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationwifiwirelessFri, 24 Dec 2010 09:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple looking to patent sharable apps, considers calling them 'seeds']]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/16/apple-looking-to-patent-sharable-apps-considers-calling-them-s/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/16/apple-looking-to-patent-sharable-apps-considers-calling-them-s/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/16/apple-looking-to-patent-sharable-apps-considers-calling-them-s/#comments You know that killer new app you just got for your iPhone? Could you beam us a copy to try? Of course you can't -- it doesn't work that way -- but someday soon it might. The fine folks at Patently Apple recently unearthed an Apple patent app that describes a way to transfer apps over peer-to-peer Bluetooth or shiny, star-filled WiFi. The idea goes that if a company wants to spread a program by word of mouth, it might as well make it shareable too, and so the owner of an app could transfer an "application seed" to friends and associates with a similar device. You'd pick from a menu of apps to beam over, where only those greenlit by their developer would be available to send, and your recipient would receive a trial version -- or somewhat less excitingly, a link to the App Store -- over the air. The patent app suggests that recipients could even share the demo in turn, generating generation after generation of word-of-mouth sales, and that companies might even reward particularly influential sharers in some way. What's that rumbling we hear? Just the gears turning in the minds of men plotting the next great pyramid scheme.

Apple looking to patent sharable apps, considers calling them 'seeds' originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Dec 2010 21:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapp sharingapp storeappleapplication seedsApplicationSeedsappsAppSharingAppStorebluetoothcloud sharingCloudSharingp2ppatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationpeer to peerpeer-to-peerPeerToPeerseedseedssharingwifiThu, 16 Dec 2010 21:46:00 EST