Apple Granted Patent for Wireless Accessories Including AR/VR Headset With iPhone and Wireless Charging Station
Photo Credit: Pexels/ Julia M Cameron
The granted patent, identified as US 11,677,429 B2, outlines Apple's plans for a head-mounted accessory. From the description, it appears to resemble a VR headset capable of accommodating an iPhone, similar to the concept of Google Cardboard. The inventors listed in the patent include Stephen Schooley, Ross Arriens, Sara Rusignuolo, Craig Ogden, Ho Chung, Vusthla Reddy, Jeremy Bataillou, and Xinping Zeng.
It's important to note that the issuance of a patent doesn't guarantee the development or release of a specific product. Companies often file patents to protect their ideas and innovations, and not all patented concepts ultimately become commercialized products. While this patent suggests that Apple has explored the idea of an accessory to transform an iPhone into a VR headset, it remains to be seen if they will pursue its development and release it to the market.
Photo Credit: Screenshot/ US Patent and Trademark Office
The recently granted patent to Apple showcases an interesting concept of an accessory that can transform an iPhone into a VR headset. The patent describes a headset-like accessory with a receptacle for the iPhone and a band that wraps around the user's head for a secure fit. The illustration accompanying the patent shows the accessory wirelessly detecting the iPhone and establishing a connection between the two devices using wireless circuitry.
The patent suggests that the accessory can be used for virtual reality or augmented reality experiences, allowing users to immerse themselves in interactive and immersive content. While the patent filing predates the announcement of Apple's mixed reality headset, the Apple Reality Pro, it provides a glimpse into the company's ongoing exploration of VR and AR technologies.
It's important to note that obtaining a patent does not guarantee the development or release of a specific product. Patents are often filed to protect intellectual property and explore various technological possibilities. Nevertheless, this patent offers an intriguing idea of how Apple could potentially leverage the iPhone's capabilities to deliver a VR or AR experience through an accessory.
In addition to the VR headset accessory, the patent also includes a diagram showcasing a wireless charging station that bears a striking resemblance to Apple's cancelled AirPower charging mat. The illustration depicts two smartphones and a pair of wireless headphones being charged wirelessly on the station. One of the smartphones is enclosed in a case that is capable of establishing a wireless connection with the charging station. The case features a secondary screen that displays the charging status of both phones and the wireless earphones.
The inclusion of this diagram suggests that Apple's engineers were working on a revised version of the AirPower wireless charger, which was originally announced but eventually cancelled. This patent filing provides a glimpse into Apple's ongoing research and development efforts in the field of wireless charging technology.
It's important to note, however, that the existence of a patent does not necessarily guarantee the introduction of a specific product. Companies frequently file patents to safeguard their intellectual property and explore various technological possibilities. While this patent indicates Apple's exploration of wireless charging concepts, it does not provide concrete confirmation of a future product release based on this design. The commercial viability and eventual launch of such a product would depend on various factors, including market demand, technological feasibility, and Apple's strategic considerations.
Photo Credit: Screenshot/ US Patent and Trademark Office
The patent illustration depicts a headset-like accessory labeled as figure 11-800, which is designed to wirelessly detect an electronic device such as an iPhone, represented by figure 11-850. The accessory appears to be a head-mounted device that can potentially function as a virtual reality or augmented reality headset. The patent document describes the accessory as having a receptacle to hold the headset and a band that wraps around the user's head for a secure fit.
The wireless communication between the accessory and the iPhone is facilitated through wireless circuitry present on both devices. This wireless connection allows data, audio, and potentially video to be exchanged between the headset and the iPhone. However, the exact technical details of this wireless communication method are not provided in the patent.
Additionally, the patent also showcases a diagram of a wireless charging station that bears resemblance to Apple's canceled AirPower charging station. The charging station can wirelessly charge two smartphones and a pair of wireless headphones. One of the smartphones is shown in a case that can communicate wirelessly with the charging station, while the case itself features a secondary screen displaying the charging status of both phones and the headphones.
It's worth noting that obtaining a patent does not necessarily guarantee that Apple will develop a commercial product based on this concept. Patents are often filed to protect intellectual property and explore various ideas and technologies. The decision to bring a product to market depends on various factors, including market demand, technological feasibility, and strategic considerations.
Regarding the AirPower wireless charging mat, Apple's cancellation of the project in 2019, despite its initial unveiling in 2017, suggests that the company encountered challenges in achieving the desired functionality or performance. However, Apple continues to explore advancements in wireless charging technology, as evidenced by their ongoing research and development efforts.
The recently granted patent for a scratch-resistant material combining metal and ceramic could potentially lead to more durable and scratch-resistant iPhones and iPads. This could offer users the convenience of using their devices without the need for additional protective cases. However, it's important to note that the implementation of this technology in actual products is subject to further research, testing, and practical considerations.
In conclusion, while these patents provide insights into Apple's innovative ideas and ongoing research, it's uncertain when or if these features will be integrated into future Apple devices. The company's product development and release decisions are based on a range of factors, and the ultimate goal is to deliver exceptional user experiences while ensuring product quality and market competitiveness.