Patent, iPhone remote?

Apple has filed for a patent titled "Techniques for pairing remote controllers with host devices" that mentions using a "mobile phone" to serve as a remote controller for a Mac computer. The patent also covers the Cupertino-based company's own Front Row Remote, and leaves room for other Bluetooth-enabled devices to serve as remote controllers as well. "Still another solution uses Bluetooth compatible handheld devices, such as a mobile phone, to serve as a remote controller for a Macintosh computer," Apple wrote. "This solution requires installation of software on the mobile phone as well as the computer."

"Once the software is installed, the mobile phone can be used to control popular programs such as iTunes media management program from Apple Computer, Inc. For example, in controlling iTunes media management program using this solution, the user can use the directional controls on the mobile phone to change listing volume, skip forward and backward, play/pause, etc."

Apple is expected to launch its iPhone cellular handset in June, which features multi-touch technology alongside WiFi connectivity for browsing the internet and checking email.

by MacNN Staff