Apple granted patents for 3D browsing, 3D interaction
updated 07:10 pm EDT, Fri June 19, 2009
New Apple patent reports
Apple has been granted patents for 3D movie browser technology and responsive avatars. The first patent relates to three-dimensional movie browsing or editing, with a focus on Final Cut Pro. It also relates to other Apple technologies like the iPhone, iPod touch and Apple TV and software like iTunes and QuickTime. The most common example of the 3D browser is Apple's Cover Flow. An interesting side note reveals the author, Kevin Quennesson, has since left Apple to help build the Cooliris 3D Wall. The report also notes a second patent report for what's commonly known as Apple's Magic Wand Patent, which relates to a 3D remote control for Apple TV.
The avatar patent relates to avatar expressions in a 3D space. The patent describes methods for creating avatars and then overlaying them on users' facial movements, which are tracked by an iSight camera. The avatar can be used for communicating visual information, or for replacing mouse-based input. The three-dimensional interactive technology appears to have applications in gaming, social networking and handicapped assistance.
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Mar 2003
Wow...
Nice. I wonder if the next mac i get will have 3D motion navigation.....
- A