Two audio related patent applications from Apple were published today. In the first patent application, Apple proposes use of audio sensors to automatically adjust audio output based on surrounding environments for devices like TV, laptop and mobile phone.
“For instance, a user who adjusts the volume of a mobile phone ringtone for a loud environment may later move to a quieter environment, where the loud ring will be disruptive,” Apple explains in the patent application. “Similarly, powering up a laptop computer in a quiet lecture hall or home may result in an inappropriately loud and disruptive boot sound. Alternatively, a volume level which is optimized for a quiet environment may not be detectable if the associated device is moved to louder environment, which can result in a missed audio signal.”
So, Apple proposes use of audio sensors in electronic devices that will adjust audio output based on current environment. For example, iPhone with audio sensor will determine ambient sound level for the surrounding environment and than the device will adaptively adjust ringtone volume, thereby avoiding missed call in louder environment or disrupting user because of the higher ringtone volume in quieter environment.
In the second audio related patent application, Apple discusses ways for self-cleaning audio jacks in portable electronics. Accumulation of debris happens in jacks with daily use of portable devices. One of the method that Apple discusses has a plug with an internal hollow channel – an opening at the opposite end of the plug through which air can be applied – and a series of one or more openings at the plug end that are in communication with the hollow channel to provide a way for air applied to the hollow channel to exit the plug.
The first patent application can have some interesting real world applications. By adjusting the audio output of a device based on surrounding environment, the need to constantly alter audio settings to manage sound output in various environments will go away, making the device easier to manager.
[Via AppleInsider]