Abstract:
Systems and methods of performing a simplified data transfer are provided. For example, a simplified data transfer system (10) may include two or more devices configured to perform a simplified data transfer. The first device (58) may be configured to save and transfer data associated with applications open on the first device (58). When the second device (36) initiates communication, the first device (58) may automatically send the open application data to the second device (36).
Abstract:
Methods and apparatus for allocating resources (such as communications bandwidth) using a network access device. In one embodiment, the network comprises a wireless (e.g., WiFi) network, and the access device comprises a wireless router or gateway in communication with a plurality of wireless users. The device comprises an administrator function which allows the network administrator to implement one or more resource allocation policies or rules. Using this approach, resources such as bandwidth can be allocated based on any number of different parameters or use classifications, including for example: (i) public versus private use; (ii) security level; (iii) user range from the access device; (iv) type of PHY or air interface; (v) type of channel coding; (vi) air interface mode or application (e.g., data versus voice). In one variant, the allocation policies are manually controlled by the administrator. In another variant, substantially automatic resource allocation is performed by the administrator program.
Abstract:
This invention is directed to an electronic device with an embedded authentication system for restricting access to device resources. The authentication system may include one or more sensors operative to detect biometric information of a user. The sensors may be positioned in the device such that the sensors may detect appropriate biometric information as the user operates the device, without requiring the user to perform a step for providing the biometric information (e.g., embedding a fingerprint sensor in an input mechanism instead of providing a fingerprint sensor in a separate part of the device housing). In some embodiments, the authentication system may be operative to detect a visual or temporal pattern of inputs to authenticate a user. In response to authenticating, a user may access restricted files, applications (e.g., applications purchased by the user), or settings (e.g., application settings such as contacts or saved game profile).
Abstract:
Methods and apparatus for managing power consumption in a multi-function electronic device powered by one or more batteries are provided. In one embodiment, when the power available from the one or more batteries is diminished (e.g., below a certain threshold), management of power consumption in a battery-powered electronic device (e.g., a portable electronic device) can operate or be operated to preserve one or more functions supported by the electronic device. For example, the one or more functions can be preserved by: (i) alerting a user that they should act to avoid usage of other functions that are not being preserved, and/or (ii) disabling (e.g., automatically) one or more of the other functions that are not being preserved.
Abstract:
Apparatuses and methods to sense proximity and to detect light. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes an emitter of electromagnetic radiation and a detector of electromagnetic radiation; the detector is configured to detect electromagnetic radiation from the emitter when the apparatus is configured to sense proximity, and the emitter is disabled at least temporarily to allow the detector to detect electromagnetic radiation from a source other than the emitter, such as ambient light. In one implementation of this embodiment, the ambient light is measured by measuring infrared wavelengths. Other apparatuses and methods and data processing systems and machine readable media are also described.
Abstract:
The various methods and devices described herein relate to devices which, in at least certain embodiments, may include one or more sensors for providing data relating to user activity and at least one processor for causing the device to respond based on the user activity which was determined, at least in part, through the sensors. The response by the device may include a change of state of the device, and the response may be automatically performed after the user activity is determined.
Abstract:
Methods and systems that facilitate data delivery to electronic devices are disclosed. One aspect pertains to data delivery to electronic devices that are portable, such as, mobile devices. In one embodiment, one mobile device discovers another mobile device within its vicinity. The mobile devices can then wirelessly transmit data from one mobile device to the other. The mobile devices, or their users, can control, request or influence the particular data content being delivered.
Abstract:
Improved techniques for interaction between a host computer (e.g., personal computer) and a media player are disclosed. According to one embodiment, interaction between a host device (e.g., host (computer (102)) and a media player (108) can be performed over a wireless channel. The interaction over the wireless channel can be used to automatically synchronize media contents stored on the media player with media contents stored on the host device. According to another embodiment, interaction between a host device and a media player, such as automatic synchronization of media contents stored on a media player with media contents stored on a host device, can be restricted. In still another embodiment, synchronization can be automatically performed when the media player is placed in a docking station (110) that supports wireless communications.
Abstract:
In a portable multimedia device, a method, apparatus, and system for automatically updating programmable buttons on a remote client device using a set of user preferences is described. A remote client device is coupled (either wired or wirelessly) to the host computer and the preference file is passed to the remote client device which uses the preference file to automatically update any programmable buttons included therein to execute the desired suite of functions. In some cases, a combination of buttons can be used to perform a particular function whereas in other cases, a single button can be associated with a particular function.
Abstract:
The current application is related to environmental-conditioning systems controlled by intelligent controllers and, in particular, to an intelligent-thermostat-controlled HVAC system that detects and ameliorates control coupling between intelligent thermostats. Control coupling can lead to inefficient HVAC operation. When control coupling is detected, a settings-adjustment directive is sent to at least one intelligent thermostat to adjust one or more intelligent-thermostat settings, including an HVAC-cycle-initiation delay paramter, swing parameter, and a parameter that indicates whether or not an intelligent thermostat should first obtain confirmation or permission before initiating an HVAC cycle.