Apple multi-functional handheld device patent

Friday, September 08, 2006

With timing to raise more than a few eyebrows in the iPhone / iPod rumors camps, and with Apple's September 12th "Showtime" media event only days away, the US Patent and Trademark Office published a patent application filed by Apple in March 2006.

This most recent patent publication could hold some valuable insights into a new iPod and/or other hand-held device which could debut on Tuesday at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Theater in San Francisco.

Telephony is covered in this patent. However, the unique aspect of this chameleon style unit, is that it holds the potential of changing UI. The patent notes:



Apple's powerful patent covers the following topics: Touch Screen, Touch Sensitive Housing, Display Actuator, Multi-Functionality, Form Factor, One-Handed vs. Two-Handed Operation, Configurable GUI (User Preferences), Input Devices, Pressure or Force Sensing Devices, Differentiating Between Light and Hard Touches, Force Sensitive Housing, Motion Actuated Input Device, Mechanical Actuators, Microphone, Footprint/Size, Full Screen Display, Limited Number of Mechanical Actuators, Adaptability, GUI Based on Functionality, Switching Between Devices (GUI), Operating at Least Two Functionalities Simultaneously, Image Sensor, Touch Gestures, 3-D Spatial Gestures, Perform Action Based on Multiple Inputs, Example of a New Touch Vocabulary, Speaker, Audio/Tactile Feedback Devices, Communication Devices (wired & wireless) and Change UI Based on Received Communication Signals.

Whether a new video iPod will be announced on September 12th, and/or full-length downloadable movies, a new iMac, or even the much anticipated iPhone, we are not clear, but one thing is certain, Steve Jobs and the gang at Apple are going to pull off a spectacular media event - as they always do!