14 DAY TRIAL // Apple has filed a patent for hand-held devices with multiple touch sensing spots. “The touch sensing devices may for example be selected from touch panels, touch screens or touch sensitive housings,” the abstract of the invention reads.
In one embodiment, the invention relates to a handheld electronic which includes a first touch sensor, and a second one, each located in separate areas on the surface of said device, Apple says.
In another embodiment, “The handheld electronic device includes a housing. The handheld electronic device includes a display located on a first side of the housing.”
“The hand held electronic device includes a touch sensing device located on a second side of the housing. The second side is opposite the first side.” the patent reads.
The touch-sensors are configured for mode and feature selection input, the filing reveals.
“The hand held electronic device also includes a sensor arrangement disposed underneath an outer surface of the housing, the sensor arrangement being configured to detect the presence of an object on at least a portion of the housing,” another embodiment reads.
Basically, Apple is saying that it may one day put sensors all over the housing of the iPad, iPhone or its iPods. One image provided with the filing (above) suggests the feature might be coming to the iPad first.
“The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a method for operating a handheld device,” Apple says.
“The method includes determining if a user is touching the handheld device. The method also includes determining the user based on the user's touch. The method further includes configuring the handheld device based on the user.”
Finally, in another embodiment, the invention relates to a user determination method for a handheld device, which includes generating a current hand signal when a user grabs the handheld device.