Apple Inc. has been granted a groundbreaking patent by the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) that could pave the way for an accessory allowing an iPhone to function as a virtual reality (VR) headset. The patent, filed at the end of 2021, indicates Apple’s ongoing exploration of wearable technology, including a version of its cancelled AirPower wireless charger. This latest patent demonstrates Apple’s commitment to innovation and the development of cutting-edge accessories.
Patent US 11,677,429 B2, granted to Apple on June 13, unveils the company’s vision for a wearable accessory that can be worn on the head. The design appears reminiscent of a VR headset, akin to Google Cardboard, with the capability to accommodate a smartphone. The patent lists several inventors, including Stephen Schooley, Ross Arriens, Sara Rusignuolo, Craig Ogden, Ho Chung, Vusthla Reddy, Jeremy Bataillou, and Xinping Zeng. An accompanying illustration portrays an isometric view of the headset-like accessory (denoted as figure 11-800) that wirelessly detects an electronic device like an iPhone (denoted as figure 11-850). The document suggests that the head-mounted device could potentially serve as a virtual reality or augmented reality headset. It outlines a receptacle for the headset and a band that wraps around the user’s head, with wireless circuitry enabling communication between the headset and the iPhone.
Notably, the patent also features a diagram of a wireless charging station, which bears a striking resemblance to Apple’s abandoned AirPower charging station. The image showcases two smartphones and a pair of wireless headphones being charged wirelessly. One of the handsets is depicted within a case that communicates wirelessly with the charging station, while a secondary screen on the case displays the charging status of both phones and the earphones.
While these patented features represent Apple’s ongoing exploration of novel technologies, it is important to note that their incorporation into future Apple devices remains uncertain. Apple recently unveiled its first mixed reality headset, the Apple Reality Pro, which integrates augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) capabilities at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2023. However, the fate of the AirPower wireless charger, first unveiled in 2017 and subsequently cancelled by Apple in 2019, remains unknown.
In a separate patent granted earlier this month, Apple explored the possibility of creating more durable smartphones and tablets resistant to scratches and abrasion. The patent suggested the development of a new material combining metal and ceramic to enhance durability, potentially eliminating the need for protective cases in the future.
Apple’s relentless pursuit of innovative technologies and accessories demonstrates the company’s commitment to pushing boundaries and delivering groundbreaking experiences to its users. While the granted patents offer a glimpse into Apple’s research and development efforts, it will be fascinating to see how these concepts manifest in future product releases.
