APPLE

The brand's next headphones will have gesture control and tilt detection

Apple is due to launch new headphones this year that offer superior audio quality. The company's patent published today describes some features that the new device can offer. They are gesture control and tilt detection, which can work separately or together.
In 2018, Apple filed a patent according to which the left and right channels of in-ear headphones can be switched depending on the position in which they are used. The new patent represents an additional development of this technology. Offers more accurate tracking of the device's position in space, making using headphones with touch controls much more comfortable.
The new development solves the problem of implementing gesture control in the event of a change in the tilt of the headphones on the head. The patent describes how scroll-based controls can work. Thus, for example, a gesture directed perpendicular to the floor will be recognized in the same way for any inclination of the earpiece arc. This can be achieved using a combination of capacitive and optical sensors that determine the position of the device in space and in the user's head. As soon as the position of the headphones in space changes, the controls will automatically adjust to the new position.
Obviously, patent information cannot guarantee that the technology described is used in a real product. However, it is likely to appear on the final device.
As for Apple's in-ear headphones, the company is expected to release them in two variations. Users will be able to choose between premium and lightweight sports models. The headphones were expected to be launched initially in the fall, but the coronavirus crisis could have affected the company's plans.

AVnews