iPhone media patent

A patent filing submitted by Apple describes technology for transferring media content between mobile devices. While the iPhone is already capable of sending a variety of data, the patent specifically outlines methods to transfer media while the user is still in the middle of a phone call. The technology would eliminate the need for users to end a call to share media with the person on the other end of the connection.

Possible content includes music tracks, videos, voicemail, podcasts, images, e-mails, text messages, or any other suitable items. Aside from transferring entire files, the technology would also allow users to integrate audible content directly into the phone call. If a caller wants the person on the other end of the connection to hear a song, the track could be played over the connection while both parties listen or talk.

The patent filing includes images of an iPhone interface with a variety of controls. A main menu provides buttons for accessing music, video, images, voicemail, podcasts or other media. When playing music, users can pause the song, move to the next track, stop playback or go to the main media menu.

It remains unknown if Apple will integrate the technology into future handsets or iPhone OS updates.

by MacNN Staff