U.S. patent application number 13/301286 was filed with the patent office on 2012-03-22 for media delivery system with improved interaction.
This patent application is currently assigned to Apple Inc.. Invention is credited to Jesse L. Dorogusker, Jeff Hammerstrom, Scott Krueger, Greg Lydon, Greg Marriott, Donald J. Novotney.
Application Number | 20120070017 13/301286 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38310017 |
Filed Date | 2012-03-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120070017 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Dorogusker; Jesse L. ; et
al. |
March 22, 2012 |
MEDIA DELIVERY SYSTEM WITH IMPROVED INTERACTION
Abstract
Methods and systems for improved interaction between media
devices and accessory devices are disclosed. In one embodiment, the
improved interaction can operate to configure a user interface of a
media device dependent on the type or condition of an accessory
device. In the same or another embodiment, the improved interaction
can exchange status information between a media device and an
accessory device that can influence operation of either or both of
the devices.
Inventors: |
Dorogusker; Jesse L.; (Los
Altos, CA) ; Novotney; Donald J.; (San Jose, CA)
; Krueger; Scott; (San Francisco, CA) ;
Hammerstrom; Jeff; (San Carlos, CA) ; Marriott;
Greg; (Honolulu, HI) ; Lydon; Greg; (Santa
Cruz, CA) |
Assignee: |
Apple Inc.
Cupertino
CA
|
Family ID: |
38310017 |
Appl. No.: |
13/301286 |
Filed: |
November 21, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11364615 |
Feb 27, 2006 |
8086332 |
|
|
13301286 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
381/104 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04R 5/04 20130101; H04S
7/00 20130101; H04R 2420/07 20130101; H04R 2205/021 20130101; H04R
2499/11 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
381/104 |
International
Class: |
H03G 3/00 20060101
H03G003/00 |
Claims
1. An accessory comprising: a first interface configured to enable
communication with a portable media device; a second interface
configured to receive one or more input commands from a user; and a
controller configured to: receive, via the second interface from a
user, a change in a volume setting for the portable media device;
and provide, via the first interface to the portable media device,
a notification to update the volume setting for the portable media
device.
2. The accessory of claim 1 wherein the first interface comprises a
dock for physically receiving the portable media device.
3. The accessory of claim 1 wherein the accessory further comprises
one or more speakers for outputting an audio signal received from
the portable media device.
4. The accessory of claim 1 wherein the second interface is a
wireless interface, and wherein the change in the volume setting is
received via a remote control that is communicatively coupled with
the wireless interface.
5. The accessory of claim 1 wherein the second interface comprises
one or more input controls located on a face of the accessory.
6. The accessory of claim 1 wherein the volume setting for the
portable media device is a volume level presented on a display of
the portable media device.
7. The accessory of claim 1 wherein the notification is a signal
indicative of the change in the volume setting.
8. A method comprising: receiving, by an accessory, a change in a
volume setting for a portable media device communicatively coupled
with the accessory, the change in the volume setting being received
via an input interface of the accessory; and providing, by the
accessory to the portable media device, a message to update the
volume setting for the portable media device in accordance with the
change.
9. The method of claim 8 wherein the volume setting for the
portable media device is a volume of the portable media device.
10. The method of claim 8 further comprising: modifying, by the
accessory, an audio signal received from the portable media device
in accordance with the change in the volume setting received via
the input interface.
11. The method of claim 8 further comprising: receiving, by the
accessory, a second change in the volume setting for the portable
media device, the second change being received from the portable
media device.
12. The method of claim 11 further comprising: modifying, by the
accessory, the audio signal in accordance with the second change in
the volume setting received from the portable media device.
13. The method of claim 8 wherein the message provided to the
portable media device operates to prevent, enable, or alter display
of at least one user interface component presented on a display of
the portable media device.
14. The method of claim 8 wherein the message provided to the
portable media device includes a device identifier of the
accessory.
15. The method of claim 8 further comprising, prior to the
receiving: sending a private key identifier to the portable media
device, the private key identifier being usable by the portable
media device for authenticating the accessory.
16. An accessory comprising: an interface configured to enable
communication with a portable media device; and circuitry
configured to: receive, from the portable media device, a
notification to update a volume; and in response to the
notification, modify an audio signal received from the portable
media device, the modifying causing the update of the volume.
17. The accessory of claim 16 wherein the interface comprises a
dock for physically receiving the portable media device.
18. The accessory of claim 16 wherein the accessory further
comprises one or more speakers for outputting the audio signal
received from the portable media device.
19. The accessory of claim 18 wherein the circuitry is further
configured to adjust a level or signal strength of the one or more
speakers.
20. The accessory of claim 16 wherein the circuitry is further
configured to adjust a level or signal strength of an audio output
jack.
21. A method comprising: receiving, by an accessory from a portable
media device communicatively coupled with the accessory, a
notification to update a volume; and in response to the
notification, modifying, by the accessory, an audio signal received
from the portable media device, the modifying causing the update of
the volume.
22. The method of claim 21 wherein modifying the audio signal
comprises adjusting a level or signal strength of one or more
speakers attached to the accessory.
23. The method of claim 21 wherein modifying the audio signal
comprises adjusting a level or signal strength of an audio output
jack.
24. The method of claim 21 wherein receiving the notification to
update the volume comprises monitoring one or more signals provided
by the portable media device indicative of a volume level.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 11/364,615, filed Feb. 27, 2006, now U.S. Publication No.
2007-0201705, published Aug. 30, 2007, and is related to (i) U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/051,499, filed Feb. 23, 2005, now
U.S. Pat. No. 7,823,214, issued Oct. 26, 2010, which is hereby
incorporated herein by reference; (ii) U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 11/245,937, filed Oct. 7, 2005, now U.S. Publication No.
2007/0080823 A1, published Apr. 12, 2007, which is hereby
incorporated herein by reference; (iii) U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 10/423,490, filed Apr. 25, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No.
7,627,343, issued Dec. 1, 2009; and (iv) U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 11/326,169, filed Jan. 4, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No.
7,574,177, issued Aug. 11, 2009, which is hereby incorporated
herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to media devices and, more
particularly, to portable media devices, such as portable media
players, that receive accessory devices.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] A media player stores media assets, such as audio tracks or
photos, that can be played or displayed on the media player. One
example of a media player is the iPod.RTM. media player, which is
available from Apple Computer, Inc. of Cupertino, Calif. Often, a
media player acquires its media assets from a host computer that
serves to enable a user to manage media assets. As an example, the
host computer can execute a media management application to manage
media assets. One example of a media management application is
iTunes.RTM. produced by Apple Computer, Inc.
[0006] A media player typically includes one or more connectors or
ports that can be used to interface to the media player. For
example, the connector or port can enable the media player to (i)
couple to a host computer, (ii) be inserted into a docking system,
or (iii) receive an accessory device. There are today many
different types of accessory devices that can interconnect to the
media player. For example, a remote control can be connected to the
connector or port to allow the user to remotely control the media
player. As another example, an automobile can include a connector
and the media player can be inserted onto the connector such that
an automobile media system can interact with the media player,
thereby allowing the media content on the media player to be played
within the automobile media system. As still another example, a
media player can be connected to a speaker dock which can then
serve as a portable media system.
[0007] Notwithstanding the foregoing, there is a need for improved
interaction between media devices and accessory devices.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The invention pertains to methods and systems for improved
interaction between media devices and accessory devices. In one
embodiment, the improved interaction can operate to configure a
user interface of a media device dependent on the type or condition
of an accessory device. The configuration of the user interface can
be automatically performed when the media device is connected with
the accessory device. In the same or another embodiment, the
improved interaction can exchange status (or state) information
between a media device and an accessory device that can influence
operation of either or both of the devices. The exchange of the
status information can be automatically performed while the media
device is connected with the accessory device.
[0009] The invention can be implemented in numerous ways, including
as a method, system, device, apparatus (including graphical user
interface), or computer readable medium. Several embodiments of the
invention are discussed below.
[0010] As a method for operating a portable media device, one
embodiment of the invention includes at least the acts of:
detecting attachment of an auxiliary device to the portable media
device; obtaining auxiliary device information from the auxiliary
device after detecting that the auxiliary device is attached to the
portable media device; and thereafter configuring the portable
media device to operate in accordance with the auxiliary device
information.
[0011] As a method for operating a portable media device, another
embodiment of the invention includes at least the acts of:
detecting attachment of an auxiliary speaker system to the portable
media device; obtaining volume status information from the
auxiliary speaker system after detecting that the auxiliary speaker
system is attached to the portable media device; and thereafter
configuring a volume setting on the portable media device based on
the volume status information.
[0012] As a method for operating a portable media device, still
another embodiment of the invention includes at least the acts of:
obtaining volume status information from an auxiliary speaker
system that is operatively connected to the portable media device;
receiving a user input that alters the volume status information;
processing the user input at the portable media device to produce
altered volume status information; and causing the volume status
information stored in the auxiliary speaker system to be updated
based on the altered volume status information.
[0013] As a computer readable medium including at least computer
program code for operating a portable media device, one embodiment
of the invention includes at least: computer program code for
detecting attachment of an auxiliary device to the portable media
device; computer program code for obtaining auxiliary device
information from the auxiliary device after the computer program
code for detecting detects that the auxiliary device is attached to
the portable media device; and computer program code for
configuring the portable media device to operate in accordance with
the auxiliary device information.
[0014] As a computer readable medium including at least computer
program code for operating a portable media device, another
embodiment of the invention includes at least: computer program
code for detecting attachment of an auxiliary speaker system to the
portable media device; computer program code for obtaining volume
status information from the auxiliary speaker system after the
computer program code for detecting detects that the auxiliary
speaker system is attached to the portable media device; computer
program code for configuring a volume setting on the portable media
device based on the volume status information; computer program
code for receiving a user input that alters the volume status
information; computer program code for processing the user input at
the portable media device to produce altered volume status
information; and computer program code for causing the volume
status information stored in the auxiliary speaker system to be
updated based on the altered volume status information.
[0015] As a portable media delivery system, one embodiment of the
invention includes a portable electronic device and a speaker
system. The portable electronic device is operatively connectable
to the speaker system and includes at least (i) a media storage
device that stores media content for one or more media items, and
(ii) a media presentation module that retrieves media content for
at least one of the media items from the media storage and causes
the media content to be presented for a user of the portable
electronic device. The speaker system stores at least a device
identifier and a system status information. When the speaker system
is operatively connected to the portable electronic device, the
portable electronic device can receive the device identifier and
the system status information from the speaker system, and then
configure a user interface associated with the portable electronic
device based on at least the system status information.
[0016] Other aspects and advantages of the invention will become
apparent from the following detailed description taken in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings which illustrate, by way
of example, the principles of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] The invention will be readily understood by the following
detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings,
wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements,
and in which:
[0018] FIGS. 1A and 1B are diagrams of a mobile media environment
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0019] FIG. 2 is a diagram of a media system according to one
embodiment of the invention.
[0020] FIGS. 3A and 3B are flow diagrams of a dynamic graphical
user interface (GUI) process according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0021] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of an initial volume control
process according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0022] FIG. 5A is a flow diagram of an audio playback process
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0023] FIG. 6A is a flow diagram of a host authentication process
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0024] FIG. 6B is a flow diagram of an accessory authentication
process according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0025] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a media management system
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0026] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a media player according to one
embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0027] The invention pertains to methods and systems for improved
interaction between media devices and accessory devices. In one
embodiment, the improved interaction can operate to configure a
user interface of a media device dependent on the type or condition
of an accessory device. The configuration of the user interface can
be automatically performed when the media device is connected with
the accessory device. In the same or another embodiment, the
improved interaction can exchange status (or state) information
between a media device and an accessory device that can influence
operation of either or both of the devices. The exchange of the
status information can be automatically performed while the media
device is connected with the accessory device.
[0028] The improved interaction provided by the invention is well
suited for electronic devices, namely, consumer electronic products
such as media devices, that can receive accessory devices (or
auxiliary devices). One example of a media device is a media
player, such as a handheld media player (e.g., music player), that
can present (e.g., play) media items (or media assets). Examples of
accessory devices, include: voice recorders, FM transceivers,
peripheral bus devices (e.g., FireWire.RTM. devices or USB
devices), media devices (e.g., media readers, displays, cameras,
etc.), power units (e.g., power adapters, battery packs, etc.),
speakers (headphones or speaker systems), remote control devices,
network devices, or automobile integration units.
[0029] Embodiments of the invention are discussed below with
reference to FIGS. 1-8. However, those skilled in the art will
readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with
respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes as the
invention extends beyond these limited embodiments.
[0030] FIGS. 1A and 1B are diagrams of a mobile media environment
100 according to one embodiment of the invention. The mobile media
environment 100 includes a portable media device 102. The portable
media device 102 is a self-contained computing device that can
perform various operations. For example, the portable media device
102 can be a media playback device and be operable to receive user
inputs, store media content, output media content, etc. In
addition, the portable media device 102 can be connected to an
auxiliary device 104. In one embodiment, the auxiliary device 104
can also be referred to as an accessory device for the portable
media device 102. The auxiliary device 104 can operate to augment
the capabilities of the portable media device 102. For example, in
one embodiment, the auxiliary device 104 can provide additional
media output capabilities. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS.
1A and 1B the portable media device 102 can be connected to the
auxiliary device 104 using a connector 106 on the portable media
device 102 and a counterpart connector 108 on the auxiliary device
104. FIG. 1B illustrates the portable media device 102 being
connected to the auxiliary device 104 via the connectors 106 and
108.
[0031] FIG. 2 is a diagram of a media system 200 according to one
embodiment of the invention. The media system 200 includes a media
delivery apparatus 202. The media delivery apparatus 202 serves to
output media, such as outputting audio sounds. For example, the
audio sound can pertain to music. The media delivery apparatus 202
can also be referred to as a media delivery accessory. More
particularly, the media delivery apparatus 202 can be considered a
speaker system.
[0032] The media delivery apparatus 202 includes a housing 204 that
supports or contains various components of the media delivery
apparatus 202. The housing 204 includes an opening or receptacle
206 and a connector 208 disposed therein. Besides the media
delivery apparatus 202, the media system 200 also includes a
portable media player 210. The portable media player 210 is, more
generally, a portable computing device, such as the portable media
device 102 illustrated in FIG. 1. The portable media player 210
includes a connector 212, a display 214 and a user input device
216. The user input device 216 can, for example, be a touch pad, a
dial, a wheel, and/or a button. As shown in FIG. 2, the exemplary
user input device 216 depicted is a circular touchpad that supports
rotational inputs and may include a center button. Typically, the
portable media player 210 is a battery-powered media playback
device. The battery-powered media playback devices can be highly
portable, such as handheld or pocket-sized media players. Examples
of portable media device include media players (e.g., MP3 players
or video players), cell phones having media support, and PDAs.
[0033] Although the portable media player 210 is fully operational
apart from the media delivery apparatus 202, the portable media
player 210 can be connected to the media delivery apparatus 204. In
particular, the portable media player 210 includes the connector
212. The portable media player 210 can be placed in the opening or
receptacle 206 such that the connector 208 physically and
electrically connects with the connector 212 of the portable media
player 210, thereby connecting the portable media player 210 to the
media delivery apparatus 204. The opening or receptacle 206 can
also be considered a media bay opening for removably receiving the
portable media player 210. Once connected, the portable media
player 210 can interact with the media delivery apparatus 204 to
acquire status information. Then, using the status information
acquired from the media delivery apparatus 204, the portable media
player 210 can be configured to operate in accordance with status
of the media delivery apparatus 204. For example, a graphical user
interface (GUI) provided by the portable media player 210 can be
configured to incorporate one or more user interface components
that pertain to or reflect the media delivery apparatus and its
status.
[0034] The media delivery apparatus 202 includes a plurality of
speakers 218. In one embodiment, the speakers 218 include a pair of
midrange speakers and a subwoofer speaker. The housing 204 also
includes volume control devices 220 and 222. In one embodiment, the
volume control devices 220 and 222 are buttons. Still further, the
housing 204 can include an indicator light 224 that is operated to
provide visual feedback to the user regarding the operation or
condition of the media delivery apparatus 202. The housing 204 can
also include an infrared receiver window 226 that can be used by an
infrared receiver internal to the housing 204 when picking up
wireless infrared transmissions from a remote controller 228. In
the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the remote controller 228 includes
a plurality of user input controls 230. Through use of the user
input controls 230 on the remote controller 228, the user is able
to indirectly interact with the portable media player 210 or
directly interact with the media delivery apparatus 202. For
example, the user of the remote controller 228 can interact with
the user input controls 230 to select a media item to be played on
the portable media player 210 with its audio output being provided
by the speakers 218 of the media delivery apparatus 202. The remote
controller 228 can also be used to alter the volume of the audio
output from the media delivery apparatus 202.
[0035] FIGS. 3A and 3B are flow diagrams of a dynamic graphical
user interface (GUI) process 300 according to one embodiment of the
invention. The dynamic GUI process is, for example, performed by a
mobile computing device, such as the portable media device 102
illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B or a media player, such as the
portable media player 210 illustrated in FIG. 2.
[0036] The dynamic GUI process 300 begins with a decision 302 that
determines whether an auxiliary device has been attached. When the
decision 302 determines that an auxiliary device has not been
attached, the dynamic GUI process 300 awaits such an attachment. In
other words, the dynamic GUI process 300 can be deemed invoked when
an auxiliary device is attached.
[0037] Once the decision 302 determines that an auxiliary device
has been attached, the auxiliary device is authenticated 304. A
decision 306 then determines whether the authentication of the
auxiliary device has been successful. When the decision 306
determines that the authentication was unsuccessful, then the
dynamic GUI process 300 ends because the auxiliary device is not
authenticated and therefore not permitted to be utilized.
[0038] On the other hand, when the decision 306 determines that
authentication has been successful, auxiliary device status
information is obtained 308 from the auxiliary device. The
auxiliary device status information is generally information
obtained from the auxiliary device that defines or describes its
status regarding one or more conditions. As an example, the
auxiliary device status information could include information on
one or more of: a volume setting, an equalization setting, a list
of alternate equalization settings, a device identifier, a device
name, a device model number, and a device version number. After the
auxiliary device status information has been obtained 308, the GUI
of the portable media device is configured 310 based on the
auxiliary device status information.
[0039] Next, a decision 312 determines whether a user input has
been received via the GUI. When the decision 312 determines that a
user input has not been received, a decision 314 determines whether
the auxiliary device has been disconnected from the portable media
device. When the decision 314 determines that the auxiliary device
has not been disconnected, then the dynamic GUI process 300 returns
to repeat the decision 312 and subsequent blocks. Once the decision
312 determines that a user input has been received from the GUI, a
decision 316 determines whether the auxiliary device status has
been altered. When the decision 316 determines that the auxiliary
device has not been altered by the user input, other input response
processing can be performed 318 based on the nature of the user
input. For example, the other input response processing could
start, stop or advance playback of a media item via the portable
media device.
[0040] Alternatively, when the decision 316 determines that the
auxiliary device status has been altered by the user input, then
the auxiliary device status change is sent 320 to the auxiliary
device. This can enable the auxiliary device to update its status
in accordance with the change to the auxiliary device status. A
decision 322 then determines whether the change to the auxiliary
device status has been confirmed by the auxiliary device.
[0041] Once the decision 322 determines that the change to the
auxiliary device status has been confirmed, the graphical user
interface of the portable media device can be updated 324 based on
the changed auxiliary device status. For example, if the change to
the auxiliary device status was a change to an equalization setting
for the auxiliary device, then the update 324 of the GUI for the
portable media device could alter the GUI so as to reflect the
change to the equalization setting. As another example, if the
change to the auxiliary device status was a change to a volume
setting for the auxiliary device, then the update 324 of the GUI
for the portable media device could alter the GUI so as to reflect
the change to the volume setting.
[0042] Following the block 324 as well as following the block 318,
the dynamic GUI process 300 returns to repeat the decision 312 and
subsequent blocks so that subsequent user inputs via the GUI can be
similarly processed until the auxiliary device is disconnected from
the portable media device. As noted above, the decision 314
determines that the auxiliary device has been disconnected. When
the decision 314 does determine that the auxiliary device has been
disconnected, the dynamic GUI process 300 ends. In ending the
dynamic GUI process 300, the auxiliary device would be disabled
(e.g., no longer authorized) and the GUI would return to its prior
state, e.g., such as its state before the configuration 310.
[0043] In general, the dynamic GUI process 300 can operate to
produce a GUI for a mobile computing device that is dependent on an
accessory device coupled thereto. More particularly, any one or
more of the presence, type, status, setting, condition, state or
mode of the accessory device can influence the GUI for the mobile
computing device. As discussed above, the presence or type of
accessory device can cause the GUI to be configured differently. As
also discussed above, the status or condition of the accessory
device can also be reflected in the GUI, such as for equalization
settings and volume settings. Still further, various other
statuses, settings, conditions, states or modes can also be
reflected in the GUI. For example, a default device setting can be
altered when an accessory device of a certain type is identified.
As a particular example, when the mobile computing device is a
portable media player with a LCD screen, the presence of an
attached speaker system (accessory device) can cause the default
backlight state for the LCD screen to be always on (as opposed to
being on only when user activity is present). As another particular
example, when the mobile computing device is a portable media
player with a display screen, the presence of an attached speaker
system (accessory device) can cause the default playback display
screen to display media artwork (e.g., album art) while the media
item is being played (as opposed to displaying playback status
information).
[0044] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of an initial volume control
process 400 according to one embodiment of the invention. The
initial volume control process 400 is, for example, performed by
the portable media device, such as the portable media device 102
illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B or the portable media player 210
illustrated in FIG. 2.
[0045] The initial volume control process 400 begins with a
decision 402. The decision 402 determines whether an external
speaker system is attached. When the decision 402 determines that
an external speaker system is not attached, then the initial volume
control process 400 awaits such an attachment. In other words, the
initial volume control process 400 can be deemed invoked once an
external speaker system, i.e., one type of accessory device, is
attached to the portable media device. As an example, the portable
media device can obtain a device identifier from the accessory
device, and then use the device identifier to determine whether the
accessory device is an external speaker system.
[0046] Once the decision 402 determines that an external speaker
has been attached to the portable media device, the auxiliary
speaker system is authenticated 404. The decision 406 then
determines whether the authentication of the auxiliary speaker
system has been successful. When the decision 406 determines that
the authentication of the auxiliary speaker system has not been
successful, the initial volume control process 400 ends such that
the auxiliary speaker system is not permitted to be utilized with
the portable media device.
[0047] On the other hand, when the decision 406 determines that the
authentication of the auxiliary speaker system has been successful,
a volume status of the auxiliary speaker system is obtained 408.
Next, a volume setting on the portable media device is set 410 to
correspond to the volume status of the auxiliary speaker system. In
one embodiment, the setting 410 of the volume settings on the
portable media device operates to update the GUI associated with
the portable media device to reflect the volume settings. As one
example, the GUI might include a volume bar or slider, and the
volume bar or slider could be updated to reflect a volume setting
that corresponds to the volume status of the auxiliary speaker
system. As another example, the GUI might include a numerical
volume setting (e.g., 0-10) that could be updated to reflect a
volume setting that corresponds to the volume status of the
auxiliary speaker system. Following the block 410, the initial
volume control process 400 is complete and ends.
[0048] In one embodiment, after the external speaker system is
detached from the portable media device, the portable media device
can revert to its volume condition prior to being set 410 to
correspond to the volume status of the auxiliary speaker system.
The auxiliary speaker system can retain its last volume status
after being detached from a portable media device so that when
later re-attached a portable media device the volume status can be
supplied to the portable media device.
[0049] FIG. 5A is a flow diagram of an audio playback process 500
according to one embodiment of the invention. The audio playback
process 500 is, for example, performed by a portable media device,
such as the portable media device 102 illustrated in FIGS. 1A and
1B or the portable media player 210 illustrated in FIG. 2.
[0050] The audio playback process 500 begins with a decision 502
that determines whether a volume adjustment has been received.
Here, the volume adjustment can be provided by a user control with
respect to the portable media device, by a user input control with
respect to the auxiliary device, or by a user input with respect to
a remote controller. For example, a user control of the portable
media player can be the user input device 216 of the portable media
player 210 illustrated in FIG. 2. As another example, a user input
control for the auxiliary device can be the volume control devices
220 and 222 of media delivery apparatus 202 illustrated in FIG. 2.
As still another example, a user input with respect to a remote
controller can be the user input controls 230 of the remote
controller 228.
[0051] When the decision 502 determines that a volume adjustment
has been received, a volume setting is adjusted 504 in view of the
volume adjustment being received. The volume setting adjustment 504
can be performed on either the auxiliary device or the portable
media device. When the volume setting adjustment 504 is performed
on the portable media device, the stored volume status of the
auxiliary speaker system is updated 506. Typically, this requires
that the portable media device inform the auxiliary device of the
adjustment to the volume setting. In so informing the auxiliary
device, the portable media device could provide an adjustment
relative to a current setting (e.g., increase by two levels), or
could provide a new volume setting (e.g., volume level 8). More
generally, when the volume setting is adjusted 504 on the portable
media device, the adjustment can be reflected in a user interface
component of a graphical user interface that is presented on a
display associated with the portable media device. This can involve
the altering, enabling or disabling of the user interface component
that represents the volume setting prior to the adjustment.
[0052] Following the block 504, the auxiliary speaker system can
then update 506 the stored volume status. Following the block 506
as well as directly following the decision 502 when a volume
adjustment has not been received, a decision 508 determines whether
an audio output is to be presented. When the decision 508
determines that an audio output is to be presented, audio signals
are output 510 to the auxiliary speaker system. Here, the auxiliary
speaker system understands the appropriate volume setting to be
utilized when processing and producing audio sound in accordance
with the audio signals. For example, the auxiliary speaker system
can include its own amplifier system that can be controlled in
accordance with the stored volume status of the auxiliary speaker
system.
[0053] Next, following the block 510 or following the decision 508
directly when an audio output is not being provided, a decision 512
determines whether the auxiliary speaker system has been
disconnected from the portable media device. When the decision 512
determines that the auxiliary speaker system has been disconnected
from the portable media device, the audio playback process ends.
Alternatively, when the decision 512 determines that the auxiliary
speaker system has not been disconnected from the portable media
device, the audio playback process returns to repeat the decision
502 and subsequent blocks so that audio playback can start or
continue and volume adjustments can be made with respect to the
output volume from any of a number of different user input
controls.
[0054] The authentication processing associated with block 304 of
FIG. 3A and block 404 of FIG. 4 can be performed using a variety of
different techniques. FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate complementary
authentication processing for a host device (e.g., media device)
and an accessory device. Regardless of the particular techniques
utilized, the authentication techniques utilized can allow a host
device to authenticate an accessory device, or can allow an
accessory device to authenticate a host device.
[0055] The interaction between media devices and accessory devices
can be implemented in a variety of different ways. Once a media
device and an accessory device are connected (either directly via a
connector or indirectly via a cable or wirelessly), information can
be exchanged and utilized for enhanced operation of either device.
The interaction can be limited to those devices that are able to be
authenticated. FIGS. 5B-5D are diagrams illustrating some
embodiments of available implementations that can be used when
media devices and accessory devices interact to exchange
information. In the different embodiments shown in FIGS. 5B-5D, the
media device is a portable media player and the accessory device is
an auxiliary speaker system; however, it should be understood that
the interaction provided by these embodiments is equally suitable
for use with other media devices and accessory devices.
[0056] FIG. 5B is an information exchange 520 between a portable
media device and an auxiliary speaker system according to one
embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, the auxiliary
speaker system initially sends state information to the portable
media device. The portable media device can then operate to set new
state information at the portable media device. Thereafter, the
portable media device can operate in accordance with the new state
information. For example, the new state information can record the
status of state (condition) of the auxiliary speaker system and be
used at the portable media player to cause a state (condition) at
the portable media device to be changed. As one example, the new
state information can cause the graphical user interface of the
portable media device to be altered. An another example, the
operation of the portable media device can be altered depending on
the new state information. This exchange of state information can
be utilized to signal volume conditions, equalization settings,
etc. from the auxiliary speaker system to the portable media
player.
[0057] FIG. 5C is a diagram of information exchange 540 between a
portable media device and an auxiliary speaker system according to
another embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, a user
typically initiates a state change at the portable media device.
The user can initiate a state change in a variety of different
ways, including utilizing an input device associated with the
portable media device or a remote controller suitable for use with
the portable media device. After the user has initiated a state
change, new state information that results therefrom can be sent to
the auxiliary speaker system. Upon receiving the new state
information, the auxiliary speaker system can set state information
accordingly. For example, the user-initiated state change can
signal a volume change to the auxiliary speaker system. In such
case, the change in volume can be sent to the auxiliary speaker
system and then used to set the output volume for the auxiliary
speaker system.
[0058] FIG. 5D is a diagram of information exchange 560 between a
portable media device and an auxiliary speaker system according to
still another embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, a
user-initiated state change can be originated at an auxiliary
speaker system. The user-initiated state change, for example, is
caused by a user interacting with an input device associated with
the auxiliary speaker system. After the user-initiated state change
has been received, new state information associated with the
user-initiated state change is sent to the portable media device.
Upon receiving the new state information, new state information can
be set at the portable media device. In this regard, the portable
media device can either simply record the state information
associated with the auxiliary speaker system for later use or can
cause an operation change at the portable media device, such as
causing a user interface at the portable media device to be updated
to reflect the new state information, altering output signals from
the portable media device, etc.
[0059] FIG. 5E is a diagram of an information exchange 580 between
a portable media device and an auxiliary speaker system according
to yet another embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, the
portable media device requests state information from an auxiliary
speaker system. The request for state information is sent to the
auxiliary speaker system. When the auxiliary speaker system
receives the request for state information, the auxiliary speaker
system can acquire its state information. The type of state
information can vary, and the state information being requested can
be a particular type of state information. Examples of state
information depend on the types of devices but for media devices
can include volume level, equalization setting, etc. After the
auxiliary speaker system has acquired its state information, the
state information is sent back to the portable media device. Upon
receiving the state information from the auxiliary speaker system,
the portable media device can store the state information. Once
stored, the portable media device can utilize the stored state
information to alter its behavior. For example, the portable media
device can utilize the stored state information to display on a
user interface the state of the auxiliary speaker system. The
portable media device could also alter its operations or processing
dependent upon the stored state information. For example, the
portable media device might output audio signals differently to the
auxiliary speaker system depending upon the state information
associated with the auxiliary speaker system.
[0060] As a specific example, the information exchange, such as the
information exchange 580, can be used to request an equalization
setting from the auxiliary speaker system. The portable media
player can then receive the equalization setting and adapt its user
interface to denote the current equalization setting of the
auxiliary speaker system. The portable media player can also
request and receive a list of available equalization settings that
are available or supported by the auxiliary speaker system. The
user interface can also be adapted to display the list of
equalization settings. In one implementation, the current
equalization setting can be implemented as an index value into the
list of equalization settings, which can pertain to names of the
equalization settings.
[0061] FIG. 6A is a flow diagram of a host authentication process
600 according to one embodiment of the invention. The host
authentication process 600 is, for example, performed by a host
device. As an example, the host device can be the portable media
device 102 illustrated in FIG. 1 or the portable media player 210
illustrated in FIG. 2.
[0062] The host authentication process 600 initially receives 602 a
device identifier associated with an accessory device to be
authenticated. Additionally, an authentication value is received
604 from the accessory device. Here, the host device is performing
the authentication process; hence, the accessory device provides
the authentication value to the host device. In one embodiment, in
determining the authentication value, the accessory device utilizes
a random number and a private key. The random number can be
provided to the accessory device by the host device, or the random
number can be available from the accessory device.
[0063] Next, the host authentication process 600 determines 606
whether the accessory device is authentic based on the
authentication value and the device identifier. A decision 608 then
determines whether the accessory device is authentic based on the
determination made at block 606. When the decision 608 determines
that the accessory device has been determined to be authentic,
usage of the accessory device with the host device is authorized
610. The nature of the usage being authorized 610 can vary
depending upon implementation. For example, the usage authorized
610 could allow complete usage of the accessory device or could
allow limited usage of the accessory device.
[0064] On the other hand, when the decision 608 determines that the
accessory device is not authentic, then the block 610 is bypassed
such that the accessory device is not authorized for usage with the
host device. In this case, since the accessory device was not
determined to be authentic, usage of the accessory device with the
host device is substantially restricted or prevented. Following the
block 610, or its being bypassed, the host authentication process
600 is complete and ends.
[0065] FIG. 6B is a flow diagram of an accessory authentication
process 650 according to one embodiment of the invention. The
accessory authentication process 650 is, for example, performed by
an accessory device. As an example, the accessory device can be the
auxiliary device 104 illustrated in FIG. 1 or the media delivery
apparatus 202 illustrated in FIG. 2.
[0066] The accessory authentication process 650 sends 652 a private
key identifier associated with the accessory device to a host
device. The private key identifier is used by the host device to
obtain an appropriate private key which is used by the host device
in producing the authentication value which is sent to the
accessory device. The accessory device will receive 654 an
authentication value from the host device.
[0067] Next, the accessory authentication process 650 determines
656 whether the host device is authentic based on the
authentication value and a public key. Typically, the public key
would be provided internal to the accessory device. A decision 658
then determines whether the host device has been determined to be
authentic. When the decision 658 determines that the host device
has been deemed authentic, then usage of the host device with the
accessory device is authorized 660. The nature of the usage being
authorized 660 can vary depending upon implementation. For example,
the usage authorized 660 could allow complete usage of the host
device or could allow limited usage of the host device.
[0068] On the other hand, when the decision 658 determines that the
host device is not authentic, then the block 660 is bypassed, such
that usage of the host device with the accessory device is
substantially restricted or prevented. Following the block 660, or
its being bypassed, the accessory authentication process 650 is
complete and ends.
[0069] In one embodiment, a media device, or host device, can also
connect to a host computer, such as a personal computer. The
personal computer can store, utilize and manage media items. The
management of the media items can be not only for the host computer
but also for the electronic device.
[0070] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a media management system 700
according to one embodiment of the invention. The media management
system 700 includes a host computer 702 and a media player 704. The
host computer 702 is typically a personal computer. The host
computer, among other conventional components, includes a
management module 706 which is a software module. The management
module 706 provides for centralized management of media items
(and/or playlists) not only on the host computer 702 but also on
the media player 704. More particularly, the management module 706
manages those media items stored in a media store 708 associated
with the host computer 702. The management module 706 also
interacts with a media database 710 to store media information
associated with the media items stored in the media store 708.
[0071] The media information pertains to characteristics or
attributes of the media items. For example, in the case of audio or
audiovisual media, the media information can include one or more
of: title, album, track, artist, composer and genre. These types of
media information are specific to particular media items. In
addition, the media information can pertain to quality
characteristics of the media items. Examples of quality
characteristics of media items can include one or more of: bit
rate, sample rate, equalizer setting, volume adjustment, start/stop
and total time.
[0072] Still further, the host computer 702 includes a play module
712. The play module 712 is a software module that can be utilized
to play certain media items stored in the media store 708. The play
module 712 can also display (on a display screen) or otherwise
utilize media information from the media database 710. Typically,
the media information of interest corresponds to the media items to
be played by the play module 712.
[0073] The host computer 702 also includes a communication module
714 that couples to a corresponding communication module 716 within
the media player 704. A connection or link 718 removably couples
the communication modules 714 and 716. In one embodiment, the
connection or link 718 is a cable that provides a data bus, such as
a FIREWIRE.TM. bus or USB bus, which is well known in the art. In
another embodiment, the connection or link 718 is a wireless
channel or connection through a wireless network. Hence, depending
on implementation, the communication modules 714 and 716 may
communicate in a wired or wireless manner.
[0074] The media player 704 also includes a media store 720 that
stores media items within the media player 704. Optionally, the
media store 720 can also store data, i.e., non-media item storage.
The media items being stored to the media store 720 are typically
received over the connection or link 718 from the host computer
702. More particularly, the management module 706 sends all or
certain of those media items residing on the media store 708 over
the connection or link 718 to the media store 720 within the media
player 704. Additionally, the corresponding media information for
the media items that is also delivered to the media player 704 from
the host computer 702 can be stored in a media database 722. In
this regard, certain media information from the media database 710
within the host computer 702 can be sent to the media database 722
within the media player 704 over the connection or link 718. Still
further, playlists identifying certain of the media items can also
be sent by the management module 706 over the connection or link
718 to the media store 720 or the media database 722 within the
media player 704.
[0075] Furthermore, the media player 704 includes a play module 724
that couples to the media store 720 and the media database 722. The
play module 724 is a software module that can be utilized to play
certain media items stored in the media store 720. The play module
724 can also display (on a display screen) or otherwise utilize
media information from the media database 722. Typically, the media
information of interest corresponds to the media items to be played
by the play module 724.
[0076] According to one embodiment, to support an authentication
process on the media player 704, the media player 704 can further
include an authentication module 726 and an authentication table
728. The authentication module 726 can perform the authentication
processing discussed above, such as the host authentication process
600 illustrated in FIG. 6A. The media player 704 can further
include a status module 729.
[0077] As previously noted, an accessory device can couple to a
media player. Hence, FIG. 7 also illustrates an accessory device
730 capable of coupling to the media player 704. According to one
embodiment, the accessory device 730 can further include an
authentication device 732. The authentication device 732 operates
to support the authentication process on the media player 704
according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, the authentication
device 732 can perform the authentication processing discussed
above, such as the accessory authentication process 650 illustrated
in FIG. 6B. The accessory device 730 can also include status
information storage 734 to store status information pertaining to
the accessory device 730. The status information can be stored to
the status information storage 734 by the accessory device 732 or
by the media player 704 through the connection or link 718.
Further, the status module 729 can configure or modify operation of
the media player 704 based on the presence or status of the
accessory device 730, such as through operations discussed above in
FIGS. 3A, 3B, 4 or 5.
[0078] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a media player 800 according to
one embodiment of the invention. The media player 800 includes a
processor 802 that pertains to a microprocessor or controller for
controlling the overall operation of the media player 800. The
media player 800 stores media data pertaining to media items in a
file system 804 and a cache 806. The file system 804 is, typically,
a storage device. The file system 804 typically provides high
capacity storage capability for the media player 800. For example,
the file system 804 can be semiconductor-based memory, such as
FLASH memory. The file system 804 can store not only media data but
also non-media data (e.g., when operated in a data mode). However,
since the access time to the file system 804 is relatively slow,
the media player 800 can also include a cache 806. The cache 806
is, for example, Random-Access Memory (RAM) provided by
semiconductor memory. The relative access time to the cache 806 is
substantially shorter than for the file system 804. However, the
cache 806 does not have the large storage capacity of the file
system 804. Further, the file system 804, when active, consumes
more power than does the cache 806. The power consumption is often
a concern when the media player 800 is a portable media player that
is powered by a battery (not shown). The media player 800 also
includes a RAM 820 and a Read-Only Memory (ROM) 822. The ROM 822
can store programs, utilities or processes to be executed in a
non-volatile manner. The RAM 820 provides volatile data storage,
such as for the cache 806. In one embodiment, the ROM 822 and the
RAM 820 can be provided by the storage device providing the file
system 804.
[0079] The media player 800 also includes a user input device 808
that allows a user of the media player 800 to interact with the
media player 800. For example, the user input device 808 can take a
variety of forms, such as a button, keypad, dial, etc. Still
further, the media player 800 can include a display 810 (screen
display) that can be controlled by the processor 802 to display
information to the user. The user input device 808 and the display
810 can also be combined in the case of a touch screen. A data bus
811 can facilitate data transfer between at least the file system
804, the cache 806, the processor 802, and the CODEC 812.
[0080] In one embodiment, the media player 800 serves to store a
plurality of media items (e.g., songs) in the file system 804. When
a user desires to have the media player play a particular media
item, a list of available media items is displayed on the display
810. Then, using the user input device 808, a user can select one
of the available media items. The processor 802, upon receiving a
selection of a particular media item, supplies the media data
(e.g., audio file) for the particular media item to a coder/decoder
(CODEC) 812. The CODEC 812 then produces analog output signals for
a speaker 814. The speaker 814 can be a speaker internal to the
media player 800 or external to the media player 800. For example,
headphones or earphones that connect to the media player 800 would
be considered an external speaker.
[0081] The media player 800 also includes a network/bus interface
816 that couples to a data link 818. The data link 818 allows the
media player 800 to couple to a host computer or to accessory
devices. The data link 818 can be provided over a wired connection
or a wireless connection. In the case of a wireless connection, the
network/bus interface 816 can include a wireless transceiver.
[0082] The media items (media assets) can pertain to one or more
different types of media content. In one embodiment, the media
items are audio tracks. In another embodiment, the media items are
images (e.g., photos). However, in other embodiments, the media
items can be any combination of audio, graphical or video
content.
[0083] In one embodiment, a portable media device is a portable
computing device dedicated, at least in part, to processing media
such as audio, video or images. For example, a portable media
device can be a media player (e.g., MP3 player, video player), a
game player, a video recorder, a camera, an image viewer and the
like. These devices are generally battery operated and highly
portable so as to allow a user to listen to music, play games or
videos, record video or take pictures wherever the user travels. In
one implementation, the media player is a handheld device that is
sized for placement into a pocket or hand of the user. By being
handheld, the media player is relatively small and easily handled
and utilized by its user. By being pocket-sized, the user does not
have to directly carry the device and therefore the device can be
taken almost anywhere the user travels (e.g., the user is not
limited by carrying a large, bulky and often heavy device, as in a
portable computer). Furthermore, the device may be operated by the
users hands, no reference surface such as a desktop is needed.
[0084] The various aspects, embodiments, implementations or
features of the invention can be used separately or in any
combination.
[0085] The invention can be implemented by software, hardware, or a
combination of hardware and software. The invention can also be
embodied as computer readable code on a computer readable medium.
The computer readable medium is any data storage device that can
store data which can thereafter be read by a computer system.
Examples of the computer readable medium include read-only memory,
random-access memory, CD-ROMs, DVDs, magnetic tape, optical data
storage devices, and carrier waves. The computer readable medium
can also be distributed over network-coupled computer systems so
that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a
distributed fashion.
[0086] The many features and advantages of the present invention
are apparent from the written description and, thus, it is intended
by the appended claims to cover all such features and advantages of
the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes
will readily occur to those skilled in the art, the invention
should not be limited to the exact construction and operation as
illustrated and described. Hence, all suitable modifications and
equivalents may be resorted to as falling within the scope of the
invention.
* * * * *