Projector could be built into remotes

Apple has filed for a patent covering a variety of technology relating to projector systems. The filing, titled "Projection Systems and Methods," describes ways to use projectors for interacting with other devices. Many of the embodiments are focused on improvements to viewing or controlling presentations remotely.

"Conventional projector systems are local to the presentation, for example, typically located in the same room as the source of the presentation data, such as the computer," the filing reads. "While video conferencing equipment may also be present and make it possible to view the presentation remotely, interaction and viewing is limited to the video conferencing equipment."

The company appears to be exploring the idea of integrating projectors into existing devices such as the iPhone or MacBook, or new gadgets such as dedicated remote controls. "In some cases, the projection system may include a wireless router and act as a hub," the filing suggests, pointing toward the company's AirPort products.

The patent art shows an iPhone interface with several virtual buttons for interacting with the projection system. Users could watch a presentation, send it to others, review content, or control the audio and camera functions.

It remains unknown if Apple plans to utilize the projector technology in its upcoming products. [via Patently Apple]

by MacNN Staff