Key Patents Granted to Apple By the USPTO; Includes Antitheft Mechanism that Stop your Phone from Recharging
- Staff
- September 17, 2013
Apple was granted a total of 42 patents by the USPTO today. Here we have some of the key patents granted to the technology giant.
Protecting electronic devices from extended unauthorized use – 8,539,590
Inventors: Lee; Michael M. (San Jose, CA), Hamlin; Jay F. (Santa Cruz, CA), Lemker; Brian D. (San Jose, CA)
September 17, 2013
Abstract
When unauthorized use of a device is suspected, a recharging mechanism (e.g., recharge-circuit) of the device is disabled in order to guard against extended unauthorized use of the device. The recharging mechanism normally recharges the rechargeable-power-supply that powers the device. Consequently, normal use and enjoyment of the device can be significantly reduced by disabling the rechager. Moreover, for devices that are mainly powered by a rechargeable-power-supply (e.g., music-players, phones, Personal Digital Assistants), disabling the recharger effectively renders the device inoperable when the power of the main power-supply has run out. As such, disabling the recharger should serve as a deterrent to theft.
This patent is another move by Apple to deter theft of your iPhone and iPad. No one is going to steal a mobile device that cannot charge.
Synchronizing mobile and vehicle devices – 8,538,462
Inventors: Forstall; Scott (Mountain View, CA), Christie; Gregory N. (San Jose, CA), Borchers; Robert E. (Pleasanton, CA), Tiene; Kevin (Cupertino, CA)
September 17, 2013
Abstract
Location information is received at a mobile device from the memory of a vehicle device. The mobile device is updated based on the location information. Sensor data is received from at least one sensor measuring movement of the mobile device, and an estimated location of the mobile device is calculated based at least in part on the location information and the sensor data.
Illuminated touchpad – 8,537,132
Inventors: Ng; Stanley C. (Los Altos, CA), Kerr; Duncan Robert (San Francisco, CA)
September 17, 2013
Abstract
The present invention pertains to improved feedback mechanisms for touch pads. One aspect relates to devices capable of illuminating the touch sensitive surface of the touch pad. Another aspect relates to methods for providing visual feedback at the touch pad.
Portable electronic device housing structures – 8,537,543
Inventors: Wang; Erik L. (Redwood City, CA), Hobson; Phillip M. (Menlo Park, CA), Jenks; Kenneth A. (Cupertino, CA), Mittleman; Adam D. (San Francisco, CA)
September 17, 2013
Abstract
Portable electronic devices are provided. Each device may be formed from two parts. A first part may be provided with components such as a display, a touch screen, a cover glass, and a frame. A second part may be provided with a plastic housing, circuit boards containing electrical components, and a bezel. Engagement members may be connected to the first and second parts. The engagement members may be formed from metal clips with holes and springs with flexible spring prongs that mate with the holes in the clips. The metal clips may be welded to frame struts on the frame and the springs may be welded to the bezel. Hard stop structures may be used to vertically align the first and second parts. A frame in the device may have an integral gasket.
This was filed in 2008, however, it looks very much like an iPhone 5c patent. It’s important to note Apple was also making the plastic iPhone 3G/3GS around this time.
