The Cupertino tech juggernaut Apple has been filing patents of advanced technologies and innovations over the years. Some patents are for future iPhone models, others are for MacBook Pros, while several others are for Apple Watch. The latest Apple patent spotted online is presumably for a new product that could help shape the Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) industry.
New Apple Patent
Apple submitted a patent with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for a headset finger accessory. It was filed with the title "Computer Systems With Finger Devices." The Apple patent talks about a device that uses force sensing and 3D gestures, among others, to collect finger input.
Apparently, these inputs would be used to control virtual objects in mixed reality or virtual reality environments. Additionally, it would be equipped with haptic feedback to generate vibrations associated with actions. It would also give users the 'realistic feel' while using the 'finger device.'
Other Functionalities Of Apple's Finger Device
The Apple patent also mentions about the future applications of this particular technology. It notes that it could be used alongside a head-mounted Augmented Reality (AR) device. One image included in the patent shows how the finger-worn device could turn the volume of a HomePod smart speaker by accessing the virtual volume control.
The Apple patent also suggests that the finger device could carry out commands when the user runs an external object, like a fingertip, over the outer surface. "Object rotations and other movements may be converted into input for mixed reality or virtual reality systems," the patent adds. The technology may use infrared-reflective ink to form visual markers on the fabric for the infrared tracking system.
Apple AR Glasses
TF Securities Analyst and reputable Apple tipster Ming-Chi Kuo in 2019 mentioned about the possible arrival of Apple AR Glasses late this year or next year. And, based on the Apple patent, it seems that the Cupertino company has to release the finger tracking device if it were to launch the augmented reality glasses. Apple could further enhance the technology in the finger accessory for the iPhone.
Apple CEO Tim Cook said in Dublin a few days ago that AR is the next big thing in the consumer tech market. He believes that in five or ten years, AR technology would "pervade our entire lives." AR could be used in all aspects of our lives, from overlaying instruction guides to video games, and more said, Cook.
It is worth mentioning that the Apple patent on a finger device is not a guarantee that it would end up to the consumers. But, it is interesting that Apple is looking into this kind of technology that would significantly revolutionize the AR and VR landscape if it becomes a product.
