A couple of patents that have recently been published indicate that Apple has been exploring ways to deal with using the iPhone while in motion. One patent describes a way in which gestures with the iPhone can make it do certain actions, while the other patent outlines how the iPhone could detect motion and adjust the interface to make it easier to use while moving.
The first
patent describes a way in which gestures can take place of button pressing. Apple states that looking at a screen can become distracting to users who are engaged in an activity such as exercising which could be dangerous. To avoid having to look at a screen during an activity, Apple proposes using a gesture system to take place of on screen buttons. To avoid accidental gesturing, Apple would implement onscreen button detection or even a bezel touch detection to only recognize gestures when either event takes place.
The second
patent filing, which was only published yesterday, outlines a more practical way of dealing with motion. With this proposed technology, the iPhone could detect motion and then adjust accordingly. For example, if the iPhone were to detect that you were running, the iPhone would adjust its interface in real-time by enlarging icons or text for easy viewing. The photo above clearly indicates how the system would work.
Also contained within the patent were indications that Apple is still working on a front-facing camera. Nothing is mentioned about the camera itself, it is simply listed as one of the features. Below is an enlarged image from the patent filing and if you look closely, the camera is labeled 180.
Patent filings simply give us an idea of where Apple is heading with its technology. As always, it is unlikely that any of these features will ever see the light of day.
[via
MacRumors]
