Iphone Phone Home patent

[drpellypo]

An Apple patent application published this week details a security system that would cause an iPhone or iPod to enter “security mode” and send a signal or e-mail to an external party when certain vibration or acceleration levels are detected. The technology could come in handy as an additional anti-theft measure.

More info here:

http://iphonejailbreaknews.blogspot.com/2009/10/iphone-phone-home.html

I just don't get it? Surely something along the lines of a GPS perimeter would be a better idea, e.g, if it goes away from the place you live, or work, but vibration or acceleration?

 

[RiceRacerDX]

An Apple patent application published this week details a security system that would cause an iPhone or iPod to enter “security mode” and send a signal or e-mail to an external party when certain vibration or acceleration levels are detected. The technology could come in handy as an additional anti-theft measure.

More info here:

http://iphonejailbreaknews.blogspot.com/2009/10/iphone-phone-home.html

I just don't get it? Surely something along the lines of a GPS perimeter would be a better idea, e.g, if it goes away from the place you live, or work, but vibration or acceleration?

A GPS perimeter would drain the battery way too fast. I do like the idea of having a security mode on it to detect whether someone picks up your phone. But honestly, I think Apple is trying too hard. If someone is that paranoid about losing their phone, just set a strict passcode lock on it.

 

[VulchR]

I wonder if this isn't based on some system that uses the owner's characteristic pace of walking and other measures of movement as a form of ID. I seem to recall reading somewhere that these measures can provide profile that is unique to an individual, like a kinetic fingerprint. Sorry I cannot remember the source - but this is a rumor site after all....

 

[drpellypo]

They must have some basis for the patent for it to have been worthwhile, unless Apple's R&D are now so scared of people stealing their stuff they simply patent every tiny little idea any of them has!

 

[scaredpoet]

But honestly, I think Apple is trying too hard.

Why? The components needed to work this out are already built in with the accelerometer. If the stuff needed to do this is already in place for the most part, it's not really trying too hard. But if it's too much, then you don't have to use it.