News, info, and opinion by Mac users, for Mac users.

August 16, 2006

ipod

Wireless iPod patent filed overseas

Posted Aug. 16, ’06, 2:38 PM PT by Scott Silverman
Category | iPod

Wireless musicWhile it’s no rumor or secret that we will someday see a wireless iPod (especially in light of the recent Zune Wi-Fi news), the specifics and hard evidence are rare to surface from tight-lipped Apple. However, AppleInsider is now reporting an overseas patent filed by Apple.

The patent covers a syncing system that uses a variety of short-ranged wireless technology—things like 802.11, Bluetooth, 900 MHz, and others. While the syncing process is very similar to the current process of using a USB cable, the difference is in the method. Your computer will automatically detect when an iPod is in range and then sync your library wirelessly. There was also a note in the patent about a wireless dock, although the purpose of this remains a mystery to me. (If you have a dock on your desk anyways, why not just use a wired connection?)

One of the most important steps in this patent is the iPod’s ability to communicate with other devices. The patent mentions ability to communicate with vehicles, bags, and cases. Could this be the beginning of an integrated wireless music player for your car (or purse)? Now that’s something that I’d be willing to pay for.


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