A new Apple patent application has been uncovered by the Patently Apple website, which uses programmable magnets to lock and unlock iOS devices. The innovative patent, which reveals some great concepts for using the programmable magnets, was first filed back in July 2011.
Within the patent application, Apple uses the example of a stylus that has been equipped with specially programmed magnets and can lock and unlock your iOS device simply by coming close to it.
Beyond Basic Security
However, the patent application goes much deeper than just securing your iOS devices and provides a glimpse into what Apple may or may not have in store for users in the future. The Patently Apple website explains:
“Apple’s invention of enhanced security via magnetic structures could go far beyond traditional computing devices. While Apple covers many possible future applications for their invention, one of the most detailed pertains to advancing physical keys. Apple notes that a correlated magnetic lock may be more difficult to pick or open in an unauthorized fashion, as the tumblers/maxels/physical elements may not be directly manipulable.”
This suggests that Apple is not just thinking about digital security but also physical security. Imagine a future where your house keys, car keys, or even office access cards are replaced by devices equipped with programmable magnets. These magnets could be programmed to interact with specific locks, making unauthorized access extremely difficult. This could revolutionize the way we think about security in both personal and professional settings.
Potential Applications and Future Prospects
The potential applications for this technology are vast. For instance, in the realm of personal devices, programmable magnets could be used to secure not just iPhones and iPads, but also MacBooks and other Apple hardware. This could provide a seamless and highly secure user experience, where your devices automatically unlock as you approach them with your stylus or another magnet-equipped accessory.
In the automotive industry, programmable magnets could be used to create more secure car locking systems. Traditional car keys could be replaced with magnetically programmed devices that interact with the car’s locking mechanism. This would make it much harder for thieves to steal cars, as the magnetic locks would be far more complex to manipulate than traditional mechanical locks.
Moreover, in the field of home security, programmable magnets could be used to create advanced locking systems for doors and windows. These systems could be integrated with smart home technology, allowing homeowners to lock and unlock their homes remotely using their iOS devices. This would add an extra layer of security and convenience, making it easier to manage home security from anywhere in the world.
But don’t expect the new technology to appear within the next few iOS devices. Developing such advanced security systems will take time, and Apple will likely conduct extensive testing to ensure their reliability and effectiveness. However, the fact that Apple is exploring such innovative security solutions is a promising sign of what the future may hold.
For a full run down of the whole patent, jump over to the Patently Apple website or the website for the complete patent.
Source: Patently Apple : Engadget
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