Sauron approves: Apple's smart ring will control all electronic devices

A new Apple patent outlines the features of the company's upcoming smart ring. The "ring device" will control electronics and gadgets.

According to a patent application published by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), the ring can be configured to manage multiple electronic devices within the user's environment. This includes not only Apple products but also various household and office devices.

"For instance, the ring device and/or a host device could store... a layout map of the kitchen indicating the positions of various kitchen appliances, a map of the office showing the location of the desktop computer, office speaker, and desk lamp, a bedroom map delineating the positions of the lamp, laptop, and bedroom speaker, etc.," states the application.

Apple does not specify exactly how the control will work. It is known that the ring will recognize gestures and other body-related data from the user. The document mentions sensors that will track the user's body. The ring may also include a microphone.

"While operating the accompanying device, the user may input data via gestures, touches, presses, voice input, pointing input, gaze input, or other input methods related to the user's body position (e.g., location, orientation, and movement of one or several fingers and/or other body parts) and/or other," the application explains.

The company claims that the devices will be readily accessible to the user. Given that the ring would be worn continuously, "the ring device can be easily brought close to near-field communication tags in the user’s environment" — indicating potential interactions when near other devices. There is also a mention of the ring being utilized somehow while typing on a keyboard.

The user will not be limited to just one ring: "Devices can be worn on any or all of the user's fingers (e.g., the index finger, index and thumb, three fingers on one hand, some or all fingers on both hands, etc.)."

It should be noted that not all the functionalities listed will necessarily be included in the device. Typically, such patent applications cover the broadest range of possibilities. However, it is evident how Apple intends to market the ring and what functionalities it may offer.

Source: Apple Insider