So far, only iPod nano have had the grace of receiving an FM radio system, while iPads, iPhones and iPods touch have to use the internet or apps to access broadcasters' content an interesting way to avoid paying royalties by an FM tuner. An Apple technology released today could make using this type of radio service accessed from the cloud more intelligent.
According to the document, a device with access to certain content could monitor the execution point so that, in the event of an intentional or accidental shutdown, the last stretch heard is recorded. You could, therefore, be listening to a radio program on the iPhone via 3G and, in case of losing the signal or turning off the gadget, it would be possible to return to the program exactly at the point where the interruption occurred. What's more, the invention even records the possibility that the device will automatically search for alternative sources for the content!
Other radio-related inventions describe ways of switching between remote and local content and identifying stations based on personal preferences. Apparently the Cupertino people were very interested in radio programming on their gadgets, or else these patents are just a tool for troll whoever wants to threaten the iTunes Store through FM waves.
Another interesting invention registered recently concerns an alternative technology for LCD screens that could significantly reduce their energy consumption and, as a bonus, alleviate visual fatigue caused by the alternating state of pixels. The invention entitled “Staggered Line Inversion and Power Reduction System and Method for LCD Panels” and could be applied to both portable gadgets such as the iPhone or iPad as well as MacBooks, as both categories would enjoy greater autonomy, but I would not rule out their use on desktops, given the reduction in visual fatigue and the possibility of consuming less super green electricity .
Another invention, this related function of tethering (or internet sharing): Apple has registered an improved form of this feature, so that multiple connections could be established simultaneously by various applications and services on a smartphone and a device with which it shares its connection.
Other noteworthy records: a borderless headphone connector, the registration of the “Bumpers” brand in China, a method of dynamically generating summaries / indexes in HTML documents and a DVR (Digital Video Recorder) that combines hard drives and NAND flash memories for increased performance.
(via AppleInsider; Patently Apple: 1, 2, 3, 4)
