iPhone patent hints at camera gestures

Two newly-revealed US patent applications hint at potential Apple interface changes. The first, Shape Detecting Input Device, would allow people to hold a signet such as a ring or a key up to an iMac's screen, and thereby clear some security barriers. An advantage is that unlike regular password entry, the system would allow people to automatically login to a specific account, eliminating the need to pick one first.

While Apple is rumored to be working on a touchscreen iMac, one which could theoretically allow for such signets, internal use of the patent may be unlikely. The background technology dates to 2004, and diagrams depict a G4-based iMac. Apple may also prefer to avoid placing objects against a touchscreen, which risk damaging it.

More practical may be another filing, titled Camera as Input Interface. The technology described would allow better control of an iPhone, particularly when taking a call. Users could for instance pause and resume voicemail by tapping on a phone, or fast-forward and rewind by swiping over the lens.

When holding an iPhone away from the face, people could use their fingers to scroll in multiple directions when looking at contacts, documents or webpages. Possible obstacles to the concept could include cases, or simply accidental gestures because of grip. It may however be a more realistic proposal than some from Apple, which have called for touch-sensitive casing.

by MacNN Staff