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Nokia envisions fingerprint-reading cellphone displays
Cellphones with built-in fingerprint scanners aren't exactly revolutionary, but a recent patent application filed by Nokia could foreshadow mobile displays that recognize and react to biometric inputs. More specifically, the technology would see a touch-sensitive user interface that could allow / deny access or morph depending on what user swiped their finger. Moreover, a mysterious "visual display cursor" is also referenced, which would seemingly allow the device to bring important applications / lists / etc. to the screen's forefront depending on the preferences saved for each fingerprint. As always, it's a mystery as to when something like this will actually go mainstream, but we certainly dig the sound of it -- even when written in totally incomprehensible patent app lingo.[Via CellPassion]
IBM files patent app for non-skippable DVD advertisements
While we've seen a slew of patent applications revolving around DVR-based ad skipping, IBM is apparently looking to get in on the action with DVDs that feature non-skippable advertisements. As David Freeberg noted, we too are pretty surprised that such an idea isn't already patented, but nevertheless, the theory in and of itself is a double-edged sword. At first glance, hearing that we'd be forced to watch plugs -- which could be stored on the DVD itself or retrieved via the internet -- on our flicks doesn't exactly incite fits of jubilation, but as Freeberg points out, this could be used to offset or at least subsidize the actual cost of DVDs. Additionally, we could envision marketers licking their chops at the chance to insert modern, relevant ads into films via the web, but the actual impact on the consumer still seems murky. 'Course, there's no telling whether or not this patent will be granted, but it opens up some interesting avenues, nonetheless.[Via ZatzNotFunny]
Apple patent applications reveal updated multi-touch system
Apple has already expanded its multi-touch empire quite a bit in the form of various patent applications, and it now looks like it could be set to give the core system itself an update, at least according to a trio of just-revealed patent applications. he main one is an application that describes a "sensor arrangement for use with a touch sensor that identifies hand parts." Among other things, that'll apparently allow for simultaneous tracking of "multiple finger and palm contacts" which, according to the patent, should allow for "unprecedented integration of typing, resting, pointing, scrolling, 3D manipulation, and handwriting." That last bit is apparently accomplished using a "pen grip detector," which can apparently detect if you're mimicking the position of holding a pen and adjust accordingly. Hit up the read link below for complete details in full-on patent-speak.[Via PC Joint, thanks Stasys]
Nokia patent app reveals Sidekick wannabe
We're pretty sure this isn't the first time someone outside of Danger conjured up images of a Sidekick wannabe, and while we've certainly seen a real fake version before, Nokia is apparently toying with the idea of kicking out a legitimate contender. In a recent patent application, Nokia details its vision for "compact devices with turn and slide concept," which looks an awful lot like a Sidekick save for the twistable apparatus on the side. To move the display and reveal the QWERTY keypad, users must turn the side-mounted knob, which subsequently shifts the LCD upwards and back while giving your thumbs access to the keys beneath. We're still on the fence with the whole winding approach, but it's an interesting deviation to the norm, regardless.[Via UnwiredView]
Sony Ericsson's patent application for drag and drop NFC-style
We're all about fanciful ideas, and Sony Ericsson's patent application for near-field communication (NFC) as a means of transferring files between devices certainly falls into that category. The application features -- at least in one scenario -- the ability to slide a file off your device's screen and have a neighboring device receive it as if you are simply handing a note across. Apart from issues like directional control potentially getting in the way -- and of course security -- this'd be an awesome use of this type of technology, and a brilliant way to cheat on tests. Now let's get that big touchscreen device to market, OK Sony Ericsson?
Microsoft's files Zune patent for "automatic delivery of personal content"
Worried that you weren't getting any phantom downloads to your Zune? Fear not, readers, as Microsoft has plans to get you seriously covered. In a new patent application unearthed last week, the boys in Redmond outline a scheme wherein new media -- whether it be podcasts, individual tracks, or albums -- would be downloaded to your Zune via WiFi if relevant new content appeared on the company's servers. What's relevant content, you ask? Well, say you had a number of Foo Fighters records in your playlist, and you had set your preferences to grab any new music by the band that was put online. Tracks (or maybe just freebies like singles) might be downloaded directly to your player and added to a playlist. The system might also make suggestions for downloads based on your listening habits, possibly suggesting a Probot record, or Queens of the Stone Age. Whatever the implementation may be, we can all be assured of one thing: Dave Grohl will somehow be involved.[Via ZDNet]
Samsung files patent app for phone with integrated Bluetooth headset
We're all about Bluetooth headsets round about these parts - preferable A2DP, of course -- and so this bit of inspired inventiveness really grabbed our attention. While they are the handiest of things to use, it can be a chore to keep track of them, keep them charged, and just plain not lose 'em while out running around. Samsung's patent application should sort all those troubles in one hop by having the headset actually merge with the phone to keep it charged, have it all fit in your pocket / carrying case, and help keep you from forgetting it at home. This is a fine idea, we just need the specs bumped to stereo and we're good to go. Thanks Samsung, top shelf bit of thinking.[Via Unwired View]
Revenge of Apple patent attack: giant laptop touchpad
Apple is up to its old tricks again: filing crazy patent requests for wild devices like the process is going out of style. This time, the boys and girls in Cupertino have really delivered a doozy: a wide touchpad for a portable computer. Okay, honestly, it does seem to be just a very large trackpad with some "multi-touch" capabilities. The pad would take up some of the space where you typically rest your hands when typing, though according to the patent documents, the system would be smart enough to distinguish between desired input and accidental movement. Clearly, this kind of technology puts Apple one step closer to its ultimate goal of really, really huge touchpads.Update - While this is a continuation of an older Apple patent, this is a new application filing, just in case there was any confusion.[Via PC Joint]
Nintendo patent application reveals plans for motion-sensing handheld
Nintendo's already dipped its toes into motion-sensing handheld gaming with the gyro-equipped WarioWare: Twisted for the Game Boy Advance, but it looks like the company looks has even grander plans to let you make a fool of yourself in public, at least if a recent patent application is any indication. According to it, Nintendo has a new "game system" on the drawing board that incorporates acceleration sensors in a "housing" to detect movement and direction. Somewhat curiously, a significant chunk of the patent application has been marked as "cancelled," but the remaining bits do have some interesting details, including what seem to be multiplayer capabilities. In patent speak, that part is described as a " game system structured at least by two game apparatuses," each of which have a means for "transmitting mutually-related data to the game apparatus on the opposite side." Of course, this simply being a patent application it could well turn out to be something entirely less exciting than it seems, if it ever actually comes to fruition at all.[Via Joystiq]
Apple patent attack: the multi-touch gesture dictionary
The unstoppable Apple patent machine has struck again. This time, the Cupertino-cash-cow has applied for a patent on a new multi-touch "dictionary" which would establish gestures, or "chords" in multi-touch systems. The dictionary would not only provide a guide and somewhat-programmable system of movements, but would also function as an application which runs either on its own or in the background during other applications, allowing gestures to be recognized. It would seem that based on other recent patent requests, Apple is keenly interested in not only defining a new system of input, but owning that system as well, which likely means that the future of the company is going to look a lot lighter in the "key" department -- and really, isn't that what Jobs is after to begin with?[Via PC Joint]
Microsoft envisions invasive approach to targeted advertising
Not that getting all up in our proverbial grills in order to provide specialized advertising is a new concept or anything, but Microsoft in particular has been on the warpath of late in this very realm. On the heels of a similar ad-based patent application comes documentation that reveals plans to use "biometric sensors, cameras, remote controls, or other accessories" to detect and identify an individual before doling out targeted plugs. Yes, this certainly does insinuate that your television would be watching you just as often as you viewed it, but unless it becomes lawful to stuff monitoring devices into our homes for the benefit of marketers, we'll consider ourselves safe -- for the time being.[Via TechDirt]
Apple patent app reveals intelligent keyboard
Arguments have surely ensued over the iPhone's polarizing touchscreen keyboard, and while you just knew it was lurking out there somewhere, the patent application describing the aforementioned device has finally surfaced. Dubbed "Keyboards for Portable Electronic Devices," the documents outlines an adaptive board with multi-symbol icons, and aside from using it solely on the iPhone, it looks like the technology could be implemented on nearly any handheld gizmo. Of course, the verbiage does mention handset mainstays such as word recommendations and predictive text entry, so it's hard to believe that all of this stuff is completely Apple's creation. Regardless, who needs license agreements when you can just hack one for your own good? [Warning: PDF read link][Via UnwiredView]
Microsoft patent application reveals plans for paid Zune sharing
It looks like Microsoft might be considering shaking up its Zune Marketplace a bit, with a recent patent application revealing its plans for "off-line economies for digital media" or, in effect, paid Zune sharing. Basically, users would be paid a sales commission for sharing songs with other Zune users -- only if that user actually ends up purchasing the track after the usual three free plays, that is. What's most interesting, however, is that the system could potentially work with "pirated" music as well, with the application specifically stating that "even resale of pirated media content benefits the copyright holder." Of course, there's no indication as to when or if the system may actually be put in place, though it would certainly seem to go some way towards making the Zune more "social" -- in a bugging your friends to join Columbia House sort of way.[Via ZuneScene]
Apple applies for multi-touch mouse patent
Ooo la la, what's this? Apple filed a patent application for a "mouse with optical sensing surface." That's right, a multi-touch mouse building upon the touch-sensitive mouse patent app we've already seen from Apple. This beast would allow for a buttonless pointing device which could sense the position of your digits for a myriad of gestural and positional control. Whether this is a patent to safeguard a brewing idea or actual product in the pipeilne is anybody's guess. Surely this filing, along with those for a backside touch interface and touch sensitive bezel give us a clue as to Apple's product mindset. Multi-touch MacBook touchpads anyone?[Via PC Joint]
Microsoft Surface revealed in patent form
While it's hardly as big a deal now that Microsoft itself has let its much-anticipated Surface/Project Milan out of the bag, those that prefer to get their information in the form crude sketches and less-than-readable sentences can finally get their fix, as the USPTO has now revealed Microsoft's patent application for the device. Filed way back in November of 2005, the application describes a "function-oriented user interface," and lays out many of the features that we saw first-hand last week, including resizing pictures using two fingers, and dragging one element to another in order to initiate an activity. So, not a lot of new information, but if you're looking for something more to tide you over until you can get your hands on a Surface yourself, you can hit up the link below for a glimpse at its origins (and plenty more sketches).[Via PC Joint, thanks Staksa]
Philips patent application reveals furry display plans
While other companies are out trying to make displays that are bigger, slimmer, and more expensive than anyone else's, Philips appears to have taken a slightly less conventional tact, setting out to corner the market on furry displays. According to a recent patent application, the company's so-called fabric display would make use of a series of "furs" that would effectively act as pixels, with each standing on end when given an electrostatic charge, revealing a different color underneath (as artfully illustrated above). So while Philips sees the displays potentially being incorporated into furniture and clothing, it doesn't look like they'll be quite capable enough for you to replace your big screen TV with a wall of shag carpeting anytime soon.[Via NewScientist]
Patent app hints at iPhone controlling Mac, iTunes
Okay, so we've heard using an Apple Remote whilst trying to fool no one into believing it's an iPhone, but apparently, the patent pumpers in Cupertino are getting serious about executing that equation in reverse. According to a recent filing, Apple engineers explain how a mysterious "mobile phone" could be used to control your Mac (and specific applications like iTunes) via built-in Bluetooth, and the wording even mentions specific software that would be tailored to the Mac and handset in order to make it all happen. More specifically, consumers could "use the directional controls on the mobile phone to change listing volume, skip forward and backward, play / pause, etc.," and while no mention of the forthcoming iPhone is directly made, the allusion here is fairly clear.[Via The Raw Feed]
RIM patent applications reveal future Blackberry possibilities
RIM isn't usually one for revealing long term plans, but a pair of recent patent applications from the company look to at least give some indication of where the company may be headed with its beloved Blackberry (don't worry, they all still have keypads). The first and more recent of the two is the one you see sketched out above, described by the company simply as a "mobile device with rotatable keyboard." That bit of innovation means that means that the jumble of letters and digits you see on the keypad up there will line up to suit how you're using the device, with the numbers legible in flip phone mode, and the letters readable with the keypad swung out for some serious text-entering, also providing a bit of added comfort. The second patent filing (seen after the break) takes the dual keyboard concept one step further, with a standard numeric keypad on the face of the device and a full-on QWERTY keyboard hidden on the back of the handheld that can be flipped out when needed. Of course, these being patent applications, there's not telling when or if either of them will actually make it to market, so don't get your hopes up too much.
LG applies for "drawer phone" with motorized slider
LG has just filed a patent for a new type of slider phone wherein a motorized, protective covering containing the microphone and antenna slides up to reveal the screen and keypad, and of course, extend the antenna. Called a "drawer-type" phone, this design supposedly offers numerous advantages over traditional form factors, taking the best attributes of different phone styles while attempting to minimize their shortcomings. For instance, a drawer phone maintains the compact profile of a flip phone or slider while in a bag or pocket, while at the same time situating the mic closer to your mouth when in-use, a la some of the better candybar mobiles. You also get the screen protection and dual display benefits of a clamshell, because the sliding section contains a clear window, but none of the finger strain involved with manually opening and closing the flip. This design definitely seems to have its benefits, but since this patent has a long way to go before being approved, we're not sure when or even if we'll ever see it in production.[Via Mobiledia]
More Apple tablet rumors
Here's the rumor that won't go away. United States Patent Application #20060026536 (which features the signature of Jonathan Ive) concerns "...Methods and systems for processing touch inputs are disclosed. The invention in one respect includes reading data from a multipoint sensing device such as a multipoint touch screen..." Is an Apple tablet in the works (yes, I'm bringing that up again)? Hrmph! even has a very nice round-up of images related to using "gestures" with a touchscreen-based user interface. Note the iPod-like scroll wheel in Fig. 27D. Seriously, though, who would you trust to deliver a tablet PC that's both beautiful and useful? Mr. Ive and Apple, that's who. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for this one. [Via Engadget]
