Apple Patent Describes Motion Activated Lock-Down Mode
April 2, 2009
Another one of Apple's iPhone patents has surfaced and this one could add even more ways for you to ensure that the data on your device is secure.
The 12-page patent describes ways in which you would be able to configure your device to enter a lock-down mode when certain requirements are met. These configurations could include setting a predetermined force threshold that if met, could place the device in lock-down mode and/or transmit an email or phone message to a security entity. This security entity could then contact you, the owner, or the proper authorities. The device could be tracked based on its GPS coordinates.
"To provide greater security, an electronic device in a security mode can be configured to enter a 'lock-down' mode when the device is exposed to vibration or acceleration above a predetermined lock-down threshold, thereby preventing unauthorized use of the device," the company adds. "The vibration/acceleration lock-down threshold for a lock-down mode may be set to be the same as a security threshold for sending a security transmission or may be set to a different level of vibration/acceleration."According to the patent, you would be able to activate the security mode manually, which would mean that the device would enter lock-down mode if any of the thresholds are met. You could also set the device to activate security mode after a set amount of time of inactivity. Just like last week's fingerprint scanning and facial feature recognition, this method of security seems a bit "out there." Also, like most Apple patents, this feature probably won't ever see the light of day, but it is possible. It is comforting to know that Apple is always working on new ways to secure our personal data. [via AppleInsider]