The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) recently issued another patent to Apple for a special handheld device. The company plans to take its smart home capabilities to a whole other level it seems, since you can literally use the “palm of your hand” to control various devices around your home. Let’s have a look at this one.
The handheld device could also be used as an AR/VR accessory it seems.
The patent describes a handheld device equipped with a variety of functionalities designed to interact with smart home devices and potentially serve as an accessory for augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR) applications. Key features outlined in the patent include cellular network connectivity and a voice control assistant to facilitate user interaction. The device would also house a compact touch-sensitive display for both visual output and touch input. Integrated microphones would capture voice commands, and speakers would provide audio output. The patent further details location tracking capabilities for the device itself, with the possibility of extending this functionality to nearby devices.
There could be so many applications for this device. It could operate as a voice-controlled smart speaker, responding to user commands to manage smart home devices or access information. The patent suggests the ability to run various applications, such as weather apps, music streaming services, or even payment platforms. The device could also be used as a universal remote control for smart home devices like speakers, lights, appliances, and more. Interestingly, the patent also hints at the possibility of using the device as an AR/VR anchor or visual marker, potentially as an input device or providing output for other AR/VR equipment. Who knows?
The concept of a multifunctional handheld device that seamlessly connects various smart home gadgets is definitely interesting if not anything else. It will be interesting to follow the development of this concept and observe if it translates into a commercially available product, and how it might integrate with Apple’s existing smart home offerings. Another Apple patent surfaced recently too, and that seems quite exciting for future iMacs. For more information, stay tuned to Gizmochina News!
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