Apple develops technology to control devices with iPhone

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has just granted Apple a new patent, which uses an iPhone or Wi-Fi-connected device to control other devices around it.

This feature is similar to the Samsung patent related to the Galaxy Ring, which describes a smart ring that can connect and interact with different devices.

According to Apple’s patent, the feature allows users to control the device without touching it or installing an app. Currently, iPhone users can control their TV or unlock their car, but with the new technology, Apple wants to create a single device that can control everything and automatically determine the user’s needs.

Apple argues that using the device in the current way leads to interactions that are frustrating and degrade the user experience. Much of the document focuses on how wireless devices can identify and convey user intent. For example, a user can wave an iPhone and the phone will determine if they want to change the TV channel, boil water, or start a game on the iPad. While there are few details on how this is done, proximity to the device is an important factor in determining the action.

The patent also mentions security and privacy, ensuring users only control devices they own.

PhoneArena rates Apple's new patent as science fiction. Meanwhile, Samsung's patent for the Galaxy Ring is more realistic with features such as switching content between screens with just a simple gesture of the wearer of the smart ring.