WO2004109427A2 - Automatically updating user-programmable input sensors to perform user specified functions - Google Patents

Automatically updating user-programmable input sensors to perform user specified functions Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2004109427A2
WO2004109427A2 PCT/US2004/010299 US2004010299W WO2004109427A2 WO 2004109427 A2 WO2004109427 A2 WO 2004109427A2 US 2004010299 W US2004010299 W US 2004010299W WO 2004109427 A2 WO2004109427 A2 WO 2004109427A2
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
recited
media
computer
programmable
client device
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2004/010299
Other languages
French (fr)
Other versions
WO2004109427A3 (en
Inventor
Anthony M. Fadell
Original Assignee
Apple Computer, Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Apple Computer, Inc. filed Critical Apple Computer, Inc.
Publication of WO2004109427A2 publication Critical patent/WO2004109427A2/en
Publication of WO2004109427A3 publication Critical patent/WO2004109427A3/en

Links

Classifications

    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06FELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/01Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
    • G06F3/02Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials
    • G06F3/0202Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the input device
    • G06F3/0219Special purpose keyboards
    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06FELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/01Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
    • G06F3/02Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials
    • G06F3/023Arrangements for converting discrete items of information into a coded form, e.g. arrangements for interpreting keyboard generated codes as alphanumeric codes, operand codes or instruction codes
    • G06F3/0238Programmable keyboards

Definitions

  • This invention relates generally to remote client devices such as multimedia players, cell phones, and personal digital assistants. More specifically, the invention describes a method and apparatus for automatically updating user programmable input sensors (such as buttons) to perform any of a suite of user supplied, functions. DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART
  • a number of digitized audio files in the form of MP3 files are stored in a storage medium included in or coupled to the player in a fashion deemed most suitable to that user.
  • MP3 files for example, a user of the MP3 player must be able to conveniently interact with the player in order to peruse and select a particular file (or files ) based upon such characteristics as music genre, author, album, or whatever grouping of MP3 files is present in the MP3 player, hi addition to merely selecting a particular file, it would be of great convenience to the user to be able to perform additional control functions (such as next/previous song, increase/decrease volume, skip next album, etc.) using only those input icons as well as input buttons already available to the user.
  • additional control functions such as next/previous song, increase/decrease volume, skip next album, etc.
  • the invention described herein pertains to a method and apparatus that affords a user of a limited display client device the ability to customize available user inputs to perform any of a suite of user supplied functions.
  • a method of automatically updating programmable buttons on a remote client device using a set of user preferences is described.
  • a user preference file is created on a host computer based upon those functions a user would like to execute on a remote client device (such as an MP3 player) using only available input buttons. Once the remote client device is coupled (either wired or wirelessly) to the host computer, the preference file is passed to the remote client device.
  • the remote client device uses the preference file to automatically update any programmable buttons included therein to execute the desired suite of functions.
  • a combination of buttons can be used to perform a particular function whereas in other cases, a single button can be associated with a particular function. In this way, the number of functions that can be executed by the client device can be greater than the total number of input buttons available.
  • a thin client device arranged to be coupled to a host computer suitably configured for storing any of a number of appropriately formatted data files.
  • the thin client includes a display unit for displaying selected graphical data, a processor coupled to the display unit for executing selected instructions, a user interface coupled to the processor arranged to receive user supplied input events, and a user interface programming unit coupled to the user interface arranged to selectively program the user interface based upon a selected number of functions to be performed by the user interface.
  • a system arranged to automatically update a number of user programmable user interface buttons in a client device coupled to a host computer.
  • the system includes a preference file generator coupled to the host computer and a programmable buttons programming unit configured to update the programmable buttons based upon the preference file the preference file is passed from the host computer to the client computer.
  • computer program product for of automatically updating a number of user programmable user input sensors in a client device.
  • the computer program product includes computer code for generating a preference file at a host computer, computer code for passing the preference file from the host computer to the client computer, computer code for updating the programmable input sensors based upon the preference file, and computer readable medium for storing the computer code.
  • FIG. 1 shows an exemplary portable multimedia device in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a particular implementation of a programmable user input device having a number of programmable input buttons.
  • FIG. 3 shows a system arranged to update any of a number of available input buttons to perform a suite of user selected functions in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of media manager processing according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 5 is flow diagram of synchronization processing according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • FIGs. 6 A and 6B illustrate media device synchronization processing according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • FIGs. 7A and 7B are flow diagrams of host computer synchronization processing according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 8 shows a flowchart detailing a manual updating procedure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 9 illustrates a computer system employed to implement the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SELECTED EMBODIMENTS
  • the invention described herein pertains to a method and apparatus that affords a user of a limited display client device the ability to customize available user inputs to perform any of a suite of user supplied functions.
  • a method of automatically updating programmable buttons on a remote client device using a set of user preferences is described.
  • a user preference file is created on a host computer based upon those functions a user would like to execute on a remote client device (such as an MP3 player) using only available input buttons.
  • the remote client device is coupled (either wired or wirelessly) to the host computer, the preference file is passed to the remote client device.
  • the remote client device uses the preference file to automatically update any programmable buttons included therein to execute the desired suite of functions.
  • buttons can be used to perform a particular function whereas in other cases, a single button can be associated with a particular function. In this way, the number of functions that can be executed by the client device can be greater than the total number of input buttons available.
  • the remote client device is a pocket sized, multimedia device (personal digital assistants, personal MP3 player/recorders, and the like) having a display screen and a programmable user input device.
  • the programmable user input device is typically includes a manually operated switch, button, wheel, or other such contrivances. Accordingly, the invention will now be described in terms a portable multimedia asset player capable of storing a number of multimedia assets.
  • the multimedia asset player being an MP3 player (such as the IPODTM player manufactured by the Apple Computer Inc. of Cupertino, CA)
  • the multimedia assets can include MP3 files as well as any other appropriately formatted data files.
  • Fig. 1 shows an exemplary portable multimedia device, or media player, 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
  • the media player 100 includes a processor 102 that pertains to a microprocessor or controller for controlling the overall operation of the media player 100.
  • the media player 100 stores media data pertaining to media assets in a file system 104 and a cache 106.
  • the file system 104 is, typically, a storage disk or a plurality of disks.
  • the file system 104 typically provides high capacity storage capability for the media player 100.
  • the media player 100 can also include a cache 106.
  • the cache 106 is, for example, Random- Access Memory (RAM) provided by semiconductor memory.
  • RAM Random- Access Memory
  • the relative access time to the cache 106 is substantially shorter than for the file system 104.
  • the cache 106 does not have the large storage capacity of the file system 104.
  • the file system 104 when active, consumes more power than does the cache 106.
  • the power consumption is particularly important when the media player 100 is a portable media player that is powered by a battery (not shown).
  • the media player 100 also includes a RAM 120 and a Read-Only Memory (ROM) 122.
  • the ROM 122 can store programs, utilities or processes to be executed in a non- volatile manner.
  • the RAM 120 provides volatile data storage, such as for the cache 106.
  • the media player 100 also includes a programmable user input device 108 that allows a user of the media player 100 to program any individual (or combination) interact with the media player 100. Still further, the media player 100 includes a display 110 (screen display) that can be controlled by the processor 102 to display information to the user. A data bus 124 can facilitate data transfer between at least the file system 104, the cache 106, the processor 102, and the CODEC 110. The media player 100 also includes a bus interface 116 that couples to a data link 118. The data link 118 allows the media player 100 to couple to a host computer. [0014] h one embodiment, the media player 100 serves to store a plurality of media assets (e.g., songs) in the file system 104.
  • media assets e.g., songs
  • a list of available media assets is displayed on the display 110. Then, using the user input device 108, a user can select one of the available media assets.
  • the processor 102 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) 110.
  • CDDEC coder/decoder
  • the CODEC 110 then produces analog output signals for a speaker 114.
  • the speaker 114 can be a speaker internal to the media player 100 or external to the media player 100. For example, headphones or earphones that connect to the media player 100 would be considered an external speaker.
  • the media player is a portable computing device dedicated to processing media such as audio, video or images.
  • the media player 100 can be a music player (e.g., MP3 player), a game player, a video 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 video, record video or take pictures wherever the user travels.
  • 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.
  • the device 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 maybe operated by the users hands, no reference surface such as a desktop is needed.
  • the programmable user input device 108 can take a variety of forms, such as a button, keypad, dial, etc. each of which can be programmed to individually or in combination to perform any of a suite of functions.
  • FIG. 2 shows a particular implementation of the user input device 108 having a number of programmable input buttons 202.
  • Such input buttons 202 take the form of a rotatable dial 202-1 in the form of a wheel capable of rotation in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction having at its center an depressable input button 202-2 arranged to receive a user input event such as a press event.
  • Other input buttons 202 include input buttons 202-3 through 202-6 each available to receive user supplied input action.
  • buttons can be programmed or otherwise configured singly or in any combination to perform a particular function or suite of functions.
  • the rotatable dial 202-1 can be configured to associate a scroll forward function with a clockwise rotation of the dial 202-1 and a scroll back function with a counterclockwise rotation, or vice-versa.
  • a user can configure the dial 202-1 to scroll forward with a clockwise rotation in combination with a user supplied input event in the form of a press of the depressable button 202-2 to scroll forward in discrete steps, for example, as opposed to a continuous scroll action.
  • a user can program any of the buttons 202 (singly or in any combination) to perform any function.
  • a user may wish to update the functions performed by the various buttons to reflect a particular set of functions that the user would like to execute.
  • This updating can be accomplished using a system 300 illustrated in Fig. 3 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
  • the system 300 includes a host computer 302 coupled (either wirelessly or wired) to the player 100 having the programmable input device 108 described above.
  • the personal computer 302 includes a media manager 301 and a user preference module 304.
  • the media manager 301 enables a user of the personal computer 302 to manage media content stored on the personal computer 302 in, for example, a retrievable storage medium 303.
  • a communications link 305 couples the host computer 302 to the media player 100.
  • the communications link 305 takes the form of a wired link such as a peripheral cable that couples the media player 100 to the personal computer 302.
  • the peripheral cable couples together data ports provided on the media player 100 and the personal computer 302.
  • the data ports can be FIREWIRE ports and the peripheral cable can be a FIREWIRE cable.
  • the peripheral cable acts as a data link.
  • Media items can be transferred from the media player 100 to the personal computer 302 over the peripheral cable, and vice versa, other cases, the communications link 305 takes the form of a wireless link.
  • the user preference module 304 (that can take any number of forms such as software module or hardware module) generates a graphical user interface (GUT) 306 that includes, for example, a user input section 308.
  • GUT graphical user interface
  • the GUI 306 is displayed on a display unit coupled to the host computer 302 in such a way that the user can associate various functions with a particular one (or group) of buttons associated with the programmable input device 108.
  • the information 310 is passed back to the preference module 304 that, in turn, generates a preference file 316.
  • a preference programming module 318 included in or coupled to the programmable input device 108 programs the various input buttons 202 based upon the preference file 316.
  • the preference file 316 includes a button map that maps each of the functionalities to at least one of the programmable buttons, hi this way, the various input buttons 202 are programmed to execute the function(s) in any combination or manner based upon the preference file.
  • the programmable buttons can also be configured automatically during what is referred to as a synchronization operation.
  • Synchronization operations have been conventionally performed between portable devices, such as Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) and host computers, to synchronize electronic files or other resources, hi the case of media players, such as MP3 players, during synchronization, MP3 files are typically moved between a host computer and a media player through use of a drag and drop operation, as is conventionally done with respect to copying of a data file from a Windows desktop to a floppy disk.
  • the media player is updated with regard to the number and type of media files available to the media player. For example, if a user has updated a particular play list on a host computer, the media player can also be updated to reflect the latest version of the play list.
  • a programmable button preference file can be associated with the play list or media file such that when the player is synchronized, the particular preference file is also used to update the programmable buttons, h this way, each play list (or media file for that matter) can have associated with it a particular suite of functions expressed by the programmable buttons.
  • a synchronization operation between the media content stored on the personal computer 302 (in the storage medium 303, for example) and the media content stored on the media player 100 (in, for example, the RAM 122 or cache 106 or a media/preference file data base 320) can be achieved in a sophisticated manner through comparison of media information stored in the respective media databases.
  • the particular media item (or its associated preference file)) can be transmitted (downloaded) to the media player 100 over the communications link.
  • the comparison of the information from the respective databases indicates that a particular media item (or its associated preference file) is resident on the media player 100 but not on the personal computer 302
  • the particular media item (or its associated preference file) can be either removed (deleted) from the media player 100 or transmitted (e.g., uploaded) over the communications link 305 to the personal computer 302.
  • the media/preference file database 320 also allows the media player 100 to present a user interface to the user that is more sophisticated then conventional approaches. Such a user interface can be presented on the screen display of the media player 100.
  • the user interface can, for example, allow the user of the media player 100 to browse, sort, search, play, etc. the media content resident on the media player 100 using the functions programmed into the programmable input button 108 using the associated preference file.
  • the user interface can also allow the user of the media player 100 to download (add) or delete (remove) media items from the media player 100.
  • the media manager 301 also has a user interface that allows a user to browse, sort, search, play, make play lists, burn Compact Discs (CDs), etc.
  • FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of media manager processing 400 according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • the media manager processing 400 is, for example, performed by the media manager 301 illustrated in FIG. 3.
  • the media manager processing 400 initially detects 402 a media player connected to a personal computer (host computer).
  • a synchronization operation can be performed to synchronize the media content and any associated preference files between the media player and the personal computer.
  • the media content and any associated preference files between the media player and the personal computer can be synchronized 404.
  • the synchronization can be performed in a one-way manner or in a two-way manner, hi a preferred embodiment, the synchronization is one-way from the personal computer to the media player.
  • the synchronization can be one-way from the media player to the personal computer.
  • the synchronization can be two-way from the media player to the personal computer as well as from the personal computer to the media player.
  • the media player typically has less media storage capacity than the personal computer and thus may limit the extent of the synchronization that can be performed.
  • a preference file can be passed from the media player back to the host computer so as to provide a mechanism whereby the particular preference file can be made available to other media players coupled to (presently or in the future) to the host computer.
  • the synchronization processing can be performed manually assuming that a media player has already been detected 402 or automatically upon such detection.
  • synchronization is performed without a user interacting with any buttons or user interface elements, that is, the connection itself initiates the synchronization.
  • FIG. 5 is flow diagram of synchronization processing 500 according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • the synchronization processing 500 is, for example, performed by a host computer, such as the personal computer 302 illustrated in FIG. 1. More specifically, the synchronization processing 500 is performed by the media manager 301 illustrated in FIG. 3.
  • the synchronization processing 500 initially reads 502 player media information from a media/preference file database on a media player. Next, the player information is compared 504 with first media/preference file information from a media/preference file database on a host computer. Such comparison produces comparison information concerning differences between the player information and the host infonnation.
  • the synchronization processing 500 determines 506 one or more media items to copy between the host computer and the media player based on the comparison information. For example, media items (e.g., audio files for songs) can be compared using media information such as song title, album name and/or artist name which pertain to characteristics or attributes of the media items. On the other hand, programmable button functionality can be compared using preference data on the media player and that associated with a particular media file or files. Thereafter, the determined one or more media items are copied 508 and the appropriate media/preference file database(s) are updated. Following the operation 508, the synchronization processing 500 is complete and ends.
  • media items e.g., audio files for songs
  • media information such as song title, album name and/or artist name which pertain to characteristics or attributes of the media items.
  • programmable button functionality can be compared using preference data on the media player and that associated with a particular media file or files.
  • the comparison of player media information and host media information is performed using media attributes of the various media items as well as any associated programmable button preference file.
  • a media item on the media player can be deemed the same media item as resident on the host computer if its media attributes sufficiently match.
  • media attributes include title, album, track, artist, composer and genre. These attributes are particular to a particular media item.
  • other media attributes can pertain to quality characteristics of the media item. Examples of such media attributes include bit rate, sample rate, equalization setting, volume adjustment, start/stop and total time as well as associated preference file(s).
  • the two media items stored on different devices can be deemed the same even though still further attributes or characteristics may cause these media items to not be exact duplications of one another. For example, if modification dates associated with respective files storing the media items were different, this difference in modification date would not trigger the copying of such media items from the host computer to the media player when the above-identified media attributes match. However, if the programmable button preference files do not match, then only the programmable button preference files are updated.
  • the intelligence of the synchronization processing of the invention allows the amount of data transfer to be properly managed such that it is relatively low or minimized.
  • conventional approaches are able to transfer files from a host computer to a portable device, when dealing with media items, filenames and modification dates tend not to be reliable indicators of whether data transfer needs to be transferred (i.e., copied).
  • using conventional data transfer techniques with respect to media items results in slow and inefficient operation and thus tends to present an unsatisfactory user experience.
  • FIGs. 6 A and 6B illustrate media device synchronization processing 600 according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • the media device synchronization processing 600 is performed by a media device that interacts with a host computer over a network.
  • the media device can pertain to the media player 100 illustrated in FIG. .
  • the media device synchronization processing 600 is generally operative on the media device when the media device is powered-on. Initially, a decision 602 determines whether the media device has just been coupled to a bus. The decision 602 can be performed periodically to check for a recent connection to a bus or can be triggered by hardware detection of connection to a bus.
  • the bus is a communication bus coupled to the host computer, h one embodiment, the bus is a serial bus such as FIREWIRE or Universal Serial Bus (USB).
  • the media device is operated 604 as a media player. In such a mode, the media device operates to browse, search or play media items for its user.
  • the media items can be audio items (e.g., songs).
  • the media device synchronization processing 600 returns to repeat the decision 602 and subsequent operations.
  • the decision 602 determines that the media device has just been coupled to the bus
  • the media device is placed in a hard disk mode 606. In the hard disk mode, the media device acts as an external hard drive to the host computer.
  • a decision 608 determines whether the host computer has requested media and or programmable button attributes for the media items residing on the media device. When the decision 608 determines that the host computer is not requesting media and or programmable button attributes, the media device can, but need not, perform other hard drive operations for non-synchronization purposes (not shown).
  • the media and or programmable button attributes of the media items stored on the media device are retrieved 610.
  • the media attributes are forwarded 612 to the host computer.
  • a decision 614 determines whether new and or programmable button attributes has been received at the media device from the host computer.
  • the media device will often receive media content from the host computer.
  • the decision 614 determines whether new media items and or programmable button attributes have been or are presently being received.
  • the media device synchronization processing 600 can await such new media items and or programmable button attributes.
  • the media device can, but need not, perform other hard drive operations for non-synchronization purposes (not shown). More generally, other hard disk operations can occur concurrently with synchronization operations.
  • the decision 614 determines that new media items and or programmable button attributes have been received from the host computer, then the new media items and their associated media attributes and or programmable button attributes are stored 616 to the media device, h one embodiment, the new media items and or programmable button attributes are stored to files in the media device, and the associated media attributes and or programmable button attributes pertaining to the media items are stored in a media database residing on the media device.
  • any unneeded media items and their associated media attributes and or programmable button attributes can be removed 618 from the media device.
  • new media items and or programmable button attributes are not only stored to the media device, but unneeded (e.g., old) media items and their associated media attributes and or programmable button attributes are also removed from the media device.
  • a decision 620 determines whether a play list update has been received. When the decision 620 determines that a play list update has not been received, then the media device synchronization processing 600 can await such a play list update.
  • an updated play list for the media device is produced 622.
  • the play list update could be the updated play list or could be instructions to update an existing play list.
  • the updated play list is then stored 622 to the media device.
  • one or more play lists at the host computer can be synchronized with the media device and thus made available to the media device.
  • a play list identifies particular media items that are to be played in a sequence.
  • the play list can be represented in the media database as a data structure that points to files of the appropriate media items residing on the storage device within the media device.
  • the pointers to the files of the appropriate media items on the media device will differ from the pointers to the files for the same media items on the host computer, thus the need to update the pointers if a particular play list is moved between the host computer and the media device.
  • the host computer synchronization processing 700 is, for example, performed by a host computer.
  • the host computer can, for example, be the personal computer 104 illustrated in FIG. 1.
  • the host computer synchronization processing 700 begins with a decision 702 which monitors a bus (i.e., peripheral bus) to determine whether any new devices have been attached, h one implementation, the monitoring is limited to a particular category of devices (e.g., FIREWIRE devices). Such monitoring can, for example, be performed by polling the device(s) on the bus or by receiving a new device alert.
  • a bus i.e., peripheral bus
  • Such monitoring can, for example, be performed by polling the device(s) on the bus or by receiving a new device alert.
  • the host computer synchronization processing 700 awaits the presence of a new device. Once the decision 702 determines that a new device is present on the bus, then the device is set up 704 as a file system with respect to the host computer. As such, an operating system for the host computer is able to access (read, write and delete) files with respect to the file system (i.e., the new device). [0039] Next, a decision 706 determines whether the device that is now present on the bus is a media device. When the decision 706 determines that the device is not a media device, then other processing 708 can be performed. Such other processing 708 is unrelated to synchronization processing and thus not further described herein.
  • the host computer synchronization processing 700 is complete and ends with synchronization not having been performed.
  • the decision 706 determines that the device is a media device
  • media attributes and or programmable button attributes for media items on the media device are requested 710.
  • the media attributes and or programmable button attributes for all the media items residing on the media device would be retrieved.
  • a decision 712 determines whether the media attributes and or programmable button attributes have been received. When the decision 712 determines that the media attributes and or programmable button attributes have not yet been received, then the host computer synchronization processing 700 can await their receipt.
  • the media attributes and or programmable button attributes from the media device are compared 714 with media attributes and or programmable button attributes for the media items residing on the host computer.
  • the comparison 714 of media attributes and or programmable button attributes with respect to the media device and the host computer results in comparison information.
  • the comparison information indicates directly or indirectly which media items and or programmable button attributes are present at the host computer but not present at the media device as well as which media items and or programmable button attributes are present at the media device but not present at the host computer.
  • the media items and or programmable button attributes on the host computer that are not on the media device are identified 716.
  • a decision 718 determines whether the media device has the capacity to store all the identified media items and or programmable button attributes.
  • the decision 718 determines whether the media device has sufficient storage capacity to store the one or more media items and or programmable button attributes that have been identified 716 as on the host computer but not on the media device.
  • the number of media items and or programmable button attributes to be stored is limited 720.
  • the one or more media items and or programmable button attributes to be unidentified can be chosen in a variety of different ways. For example, the one or more items to be unidentified could be randomly selected, selected based on file size, selected based on position in play list, etc.
  • the host computer synchronization processing 700 returns to repeat the decision 718 and subsequent operations. [0042]
  • the decision 718 determines that the media device has sufficient capacity to store all of the identified media items and or programmable button attributes
  • the identified media items and their associated media attributes and or programmable button attributes are sent to the media device.
  • the remaining identified media items and their associated media attributes and or programmable button attributes are sent (i.e., copied) from the host computer to the media device where they are to be stored.
  • a play list can also be sent 724 to the media device.
  • the play list can represent a new play list or an updated version of a previously existing play list. Before sending 724 the play list to the media device, the play list can be modified for use on the media device. Alternatively, the media device itself could update the play list for use on the media device.
  • the host computer synchronization processing 700 at operation 714 can also identify those of the media items and or programmable button attributes on the media device that are not on the host computer. Then, the host computer can operate to interact with the media device to remove (e.g., delete) those media items and or programmable button attributes stored on the media device that are not stored at the host server. Such additional processing would be performed after the operation 716 and prior to the decision 718 so that the storage capacity of the media device can be fully utilized.
  • the media device synchronization processing 600 and the host computer synchronization processing 700 interact to synchronize media items and or programmable button attributes on the media device to those media items and or programmable button attributes on the host computer.
  • Such synchronization can consider all media items and or programmable button attributes or can be limited to synchronizing only a subset of media content, such as media items pertaining to one or more play lists, or programmable button attributes.
  • the media attribute comparison provided by the invention is facilitated through the use of databases, both on the host computer and on the media device.
  • the host computer synchronization processing 700 can utilize an application resident on the host computer to perform the comparison and updating of the media items and their attributes between the host computer and the media device.
  • an application resident on the host computer to perform the comparison and updating of the media items and their attributes between the host computer and the media device.
  • One such application is iTunes, version 2.0, produced by Apple Computer, ie. of Cupertino, CA.
  • FIG. 8 shows a flowchart detailing a manual updating procedure 800 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
  • the manual updating includes open user preference selection application on host computer at 802 and using the selection application, a user selects user input icon preferences at 804.
  • the application creates user preference file while at 808 the user preference file passed to target device.
  • the application configure target device buttons based upon preference file.
  • FIG. 9 illustrates a computer system 900 employed to implement the invention.
  • the computer system 900 or, more specifically, CPU 902 may be arranged to support a virtual machine, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.
  • ROM acts to transfer data and instructions uni- directionally to the CPU 902, while RAM is used typically to transfer data and instructions in a bi-directional manner.
  • CPU 902 may generally include any number of processors.
  • Both primary storage devices 904, 906 may include any suitable computer-readable media.
  • a secondary storage medium 908, which is typically a mass memory device, is also coupled bi-directionally to CPU 902 and provides additional data storage capacity.
  • the mass memory device 908 is a computer- readable medium that may be used to store programs including computer code, data, and the like.
  • mass memory device 908 is a storage medium such as a hard disk or a tape which generally slower than primary storage devices 904, 906.
  • Mass memory storage device 908 may take the form of a magnetic or paper tape reader or some other well-known device. It will be appreciated that the information retained within the mass memory device 908, may, in appropriate cases, be incorporated in standard fashion as part of RAM 906 as virtual memory.
  • a specific primary storage device 904 such as a CD-ROM may also pass data uni-directionally to the CPU 902.
  • CPU 902 are also coupled to one or more input/output devices 910 that may include, but are not limited to, devices such as video monitors, track balls, mice, keyboards, microphones, touch-sensitive displays, transducer card readers, magnetic or paper tape readers, tablets, styluses, voice or handwriting recognizers, or other well-known input devices such as, of course, other computers.
  • CPU 902 optionally may be coupled to a computer or telecommunications network, e.g., an Internet network or an intranet network, using a network connection as shown generally at 912.
  • a network connection it is contemplated that the CPU 902 might receive information from the network, or might output information to the network in the course of performing the above-described method steps.
  • Such information which is often represented as a sequence of instructions to be executed using CPU 902, may be received from and outputted to the network, for example, in the form of a computer data signal embodied in a carrier wave.
  • the above-described devices and materials will be familiar to those of skill in the computer hardware and software arts.
  • the media items of emphasis in several of the above embodiments where audio items are not limited to audio items.
  • the media item can alternatively, pertain to videos (e.g., movies) or images (e.g., photos).
  • the invention is preferably implemented by software, but can also be implemented in 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, DNDs, 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.
  • One advantage of the invention is that a user is able to synchronize a media player with a host computer in a more sophisticated manner. Another advantage of the invention is that the amount of data transfer required for synchronization is reduced thus enabling faster synchronization. Still another advantage of the invention is that synchronization can be automatically initiated and performed upon connection of a media player to a host computer.

Abstract

In a portable multimedia device, a method, apparatus, and system for automatically updating programmable buttons on a remote client device using a set of user preferences is described. A remote client device is coupled (either wired or wirelessly) to the host computer and the preference file is passed to the remote client device which uses the preference file to automatically update any programmable buttons included therein to execute the desired suite of functions. In some cases, a combination of buttons can be used to perform a particular function whereas in other cases, a single button can be associated with a particular function.

Description

AUTOMATICALLY UPDATING USER PROGRAMMABLE INPUT SENSORS TO PERFORM USER SPECIFIED FUNCTIONS
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates generally to remote client devices such as multimedia players, cell phones, and personal digital assistants. More specifically, the invention describes a method and apparatus for automatically updating user programmable input sensors (such as buttons) to perform any of a suite of user supplied, functions. DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART
[0002] Recent developments in consumer electronics have included the introduction of remote client devices that, due to their small size, have limited display capabilities. Such limited display remote client devices include portable multimedia asset players (such as MP3 players, minidisk players), cell phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs) and the like. Unfortunately, the very nature of the limited display capabilities of these (and other) devices, precludes the use of all but a simple graphical user interface having a very limited number of displayable icons for providing any of a number of useful control functions. Therefore, most of these devices rely upon a fixed set of control buttons in addition to any displayable input icons to provide a suitable user interface for control of the device.
[0003] For example, in the case of an MP3 player, a number of digitized audio files in the form of MP3 files are stored in a storage medium included in or coupled to the player in a fashion deemed most suitable to that user. In the case of MP3 files, for example, a user of the MP3 player must be able to conveniently interact with the player in order to peruse and select a particular file (or files ) based upon such characteristics as music genre, author, album, or whatever grouping of MP3 files is present in the MP3 player, hi addition to merely selecting a particular file, it would be of great convenience to the user to be able to perform additional control functions (such as next/previous song, increase/decrease volume, skip next album, etc.) using only those input icons as well as input buttons already available to the user. [0004] Unfortunately, however, conventionally configured MP3 players (and other assorted limited display client devices) offer only a fixed set of control inputs that perform but a fixed set of control functions. For example, a typical MP3 player uses a particular input button to perform a scroll up function and another to perform a scroll down feature, whereas another button is used to scroll left and yet another to scroll right. In some cases, a toggle feature can limit the physical number of buttons required but the fact remains that the functions performed are fixed and immutable and therefore offer no ability to customize the suite of functions performed. [0005] What is required is a method and apparatus that affords a user of a remote client device the ability to customize available user inputs to perform any of a suite of user supplied functions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0006] The invention described herein pertains to a method and apparatus that affords a user of a limited display client device the ability to customize available user inputs to perform any of a suite of user supplied functions. In one embodiment, a method of automatically updating programmable buttons on a remote client device using a set of user preferences is described. A user preference file is created on a host computer based upon those functions a user would like to execute on a remote client device (such as an MP3 player) using only available input buttons. Once the remote client device is coupled (either wired or wirelessly) to the host computer, the preference file is passed to the remote client device. The remote client device, in turn, uses the preference file to automatically update any programmable buttons included therein to execute the desired suite of functions. In some cases, a combination of buttons can be used to perform a particular function whereas in other cases, a single button can be associated with a particular function. In this way, the number of functions that can be executed by the client device can be greater than the total number of input buttons available.
[0007] In another embodiment, a thin client device arranged to be coupled to a host computer suitably configured for storing any of a number of appropriately formatted data files is described. The thin client includes a display unit for displaying selected graphical data, a processor coupled to the display unit for executing selected instructions, a user interface coupled to the processor arranged to receive user supplied input events, and a user interface programming unit coupled to the user interface arranged to selectively program the user interface based upon a selected number of functions to be performed by the user interface. [0008] In still another embodiment of the invention, a system arranged to automatically update a number of user programmable user interface buttons in a client device coupled to a host computer. The system includes a preference file generator coupled to the host computer and a programmable buttons programming unit configured to update the programmable buttons based upon the preference file the preference file is passed from the host computer to the client computer.
In yet another embodiment, computer program product for of automatically updating a number of user programmable user input sensors in a client device is described. The computer program product includes computer code for generating a preference file at a host computer, computer code for passing the preference file from the host computer to the client computer, computer code for updating the programmable input sensors based upon the preference file, and computer readable medium for storing the computer code.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention will be better understood by reference to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
FIG. 1 shows an exemplary portable multimedia device in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 2 illustrates a particular implementation of a programmable user input device having a number of programmable input buttons.
FIG. 3 shows a system arranged to update any of a number of available input buttons to perform a suite of user selected functions in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of media manager processing according to one embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 5 is flow diagram of synchronization processing according to one embodiment of the invention.
FIGs. 6 A and 6B illustrate media device synchronization processing according to one embodiment of the invention.
FIGs. 7A and 7B are flow diagrams of host computer synchronization processing according to one embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 8 shows a flowchart detailing a manual updating procedure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 9 illustrates a computer system employed to implement the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SELECTED EMBODIMENTS
[0009] Reference will now be made in detail to a preferred embodiment of the invention. An example of the preferred embodiment is illustrated in the accompanying drawings. While the invention will be described in conjunction with a preferred embodiment, it will be understood that it is not intended to limit the invention to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
[0010] The invention described herein pertains to a method and apparatus that affords a user of a limited display client device the ability to customize available user inputs to perform any of a suite of user supplied functions. In one embodiment, a method of automatically updating programmable buttons on a remote client device using a set of user preferences is described. A user preference file is created on a host computer based upon those functions a user would like to execute on a remote client device (such as an MP3 player) using only available input buttons. Once the remote client device is coupled (either wired or wirelessly) to the host computer, the preference file is passed to the remote client device. The remote client device, in turn, uses the preference file to automatically update any programmable buttons included therein to execute the desired suite of functions. In some cases, a combination of buttons can be used to perform a particular function whereas in other cases, a single button can be associated with a particular function. In this way, the number of functions that can be executed by the client device can be greater than the total number of input buttons available.
[0011] In a particular embodiment, the remote client device is a pocket sized, multimedia device (personal digital assistants, personal MP3 player/recorders, and the like) having a display screen and a programmable user input device. The programmable user input device is typically includes a manually operated switch, button, wheel, or other such contrivances. Accordingly, the invention will now be described in terms a portable multimedia asset player capable of storing a number of multimedia assets. For example, in the case of the multimedia asset player being an MP3 player (such as the IPOD™ player manufactured by the Apple Computer Inc. of Cupertino, CA), the multimedia assets can include MP3 files as well as any other appropriately formatted data files.
[0012] Accordingly, Fig. 1 shows an exemplary portable multimedia device, or media player, 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The media player 100 includes a processor 102 that pertains to a microprocessor or controller for controlling the overall operation of the media player 100. The media player 100 stores media data pertaining to media assets in a file system 104 and a cache 106. The file system 104 is, typically, a storage disk or a plurality of disks. The file system 104 typically provides high capacity storage capability for the media player 100. However, since the access time to the file system 104 is relatively slow, the media player 100 can also include a cache 106. The cache 106 is, for example, Random- Access Memory (RAM) provided by semiconductor memory. The relative access time to the cache 106 is substantially shorter than for the file system 104. However, the cache 106 does not have the large storage capacity of the file system 104. Further, the file system 104, when active, consumes more power than does the cache 106. The power consumption is particularly important when the media player 100 is a portable media player that is powered by a battery (not shown). The media player 100 also includes a RAM 120 and a Read-Only Memory (ROM) 122. The ROM 122 can store programs, utilities or processes to be executed in a non- volatile manner. The RAM 120 provides volatile data storage, such as for the cache 106.
[0013] The media player 100 also includes a programmable user input device 108 that allows a user of the media player 100 to program any individual (or combination) interact with the media player 100. Still further, the media player 100 includes a display 110 (screen display) that can be controlled by the processor 102 to display information to the user. A data bus 124 can facilitate data transfer between at least the file system 104, the cache 106, the processor 102, and the CODEC 110. The media player 100 also includes a bus interface 116 that couples to a data link 118. The data link 118 allows the media player 100 to couple to a host computer. [0014] h one embodiment, the media player 100 serves to store a plurality of media assets (e.g., songs) in the file system 104. When a user desires to have the media player play a particular media item, a list of available media assets is displayed on the display 110. Then, using the user input device 108, a user can select one of the available media assets. The processor 102, 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) 110. The CODEC 110 then produces analog output signals for a speaker 114. The speaker 114 can be a speaker internal to the media player 100 or external to the media player 100. For example, headphones or earphones that connect to the media player 100 would be considered an external speaker. [0015] In one embodiment, the media player is a portable computing device dedicated to processing media such as audio, video or images. For example, the media player 100 can be a music player (e.g., MP3 player), a game player, a video 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 video, 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 maybe operated by the users hands, no reference surface such as a desktop is needed.
[0016] The programmable user input device 108 can take a variety of forms, such as a button, keypad, dial, etc. each of which can be programmed to individually or in combination to perform any of a suite of functions. FIG. 2 shows a particular implementation of the user input device 108 having a number of programmable input buttons 202. Such input buttons 202 take the form of a rotatable dial 202-1 in the form of a wheel capable of rotation in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction having at its center an depressable input button 202-2 arranged to receive a user input event such as a press event. Other input buttons 202 include input buttons 202-3 through 202-6 each available to receive user supplied input action. It should be noted that each of the above described buttons can be programmed or otherwise configured singly or in any combination to perform a particular function or suite of functions. For example, if so desired, the rotatable dial 202-1 can be configured to associate a scroll forward function with a clockwise rotation of the dial 202-1 and a scroll back function with a counterclockwise rotation, or vice-versa. In another situation, a user can configure the dial 202-1 to scroll forward with a clockwise rotation in combination with a user supplied input event in the form of a press of the depressable button 202-2 to scroll forward in discrete steps, for example, as opposed to a continuous scroll action. In this way, a user can program any of the buttons 202 (singly or in any combination) to perform any function.
[0017] However, in some cases, a user may wish to update the functions performed by the various buttons to reflect a particular set of functions that the user would like to execute. This updating can be accomplished using a system 300 illustrated in Fig. 3 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The system 300 includes a host computer 302 coupled (either wirelessly or wired) to the player 100 having the programmable input device 108 described above. The personal computer 302 includes a media manager 301 and a user preference module 304. The media manager 301 enables a user of the personal computer 302 to manage media content stored on the personal computer 302 in, for example, a retrievable storage medium 303. For example, the media manager 301 facilitates a user with browsing, organizing, or other operations with respect to media content (e.g., numerous media items). A communications link 305 couples the host computer 302 to the media player 100. In some cases, the communications link 305 takes the form of a wired link such as a peripheral cable that couples the media player 100 to the personal computer 302. Typically, the peripheral cable couples together data ports provided on the media player 100 and the personal computer 302. hi one example, the data ports can be FIREWIRE ports and the peripheral cable can be a FIREWIRE cable. More generally, the peripheral cable acts as a data link. Media items can be transferred from the media player 100 to the personal computer 302 over the peripheral cable, and vice versa, other cases, the communications link 305 takes the form of a wireless link.
[0018] In order to update the functions performed by the programmable input device 108, the user preference module 304 (that can take any number of forms such as software module or hardware module) generates a graphical user interface (GUT) 306 that includes, for example, a user input section 308. hi the described embodiment, the GUI 306 is displayed on a display unit coupled to the host computer 302 in such a way that the user can associate various functions with a particular one (or group) of buttons associated with the programmable input device 108. [0019] Once the user has selected the appropriate set of functions and corresponding input button(s), the information 310 is passed back to the preference module 304 that, in turn, generates a preference file 316. At this point, a determination is made whether or not the player is coupled to the host computer 302 and if so, the current state of the programmable input device 108 is ascertained. In this way, if the current state of the programmable input device 108 matches the preference file 316, then no further updating occurs, otherwise, the updating of the programmable input device 108 takes place by passing the preference file 316 by way of the communications link 305 from the host computer 302 to the player 100. Once the preference file 316 has been passed to the player 100, a preference programming module 318 included in or coupled to the programmable input device 108 programs the various input buttons 202 based upon the preference file 316. In one embodiment, the preference file 316 includes a button map that maps each of the functionalities to at least one of the programmable buttons, hi this way, the various input buttons 202 are programmed to execute the function(s) in any combination or manner based upon the preference file. [0020] Although described in terms of a manual updating operation, the programmable buttons can also be configured automatically during what is referred to as a synchronization operation. Synchronization operations have been conventionally performed between portable devices, such as Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) and host computers, to synchronize electronic files or other resources, hi the case of media players, such as MP3 players, during synchronization, MP3 files are typically moved between a host computer and a media player through use of a drag and drop operation, as is conventionally done with respect to copying of a data file from a Windows desktop to a floppy disk. In this way, the media player is updated with regard to the number and type of media files available to the media player. For example, if a user has updated a particular play list on a host computer, the media player can also be updated to reflect the latest version of the play list. In addition to updating the particular play list or media files, a programmable button preference file can be associated with the play list or media file such that when the player is synchronized, the particular preference file is also used to update the programmable buttons, h this way, each play list (or media file for that matter) can have associated with it a particular suite of functions expressed by the programmable buttons. [0021] A synchronization operation between the media content stored on the personal computer 302 (in the storage medium 303, for example) and the media content stored on the media player 100 (in, for example, the RAM 122 or cache 106 or a media/preference file data base 320) can be achieved in a sophisticated manner through comparison of media information stored in the respective media databases. When comparison of the information from the respective databases indicates that there is a particular media item (or associated preference file) resident on the personal computer 302 but not on the media player 100, then the particular media item (or its associated preference file)) can be transmitted (downloaded) to the media player 100 over the communications link. On the other hand, when the comparison of the information from the respective databases indicates that a particular media item (or its associated preference file) is resident on the media player 100 but not on the personal computer 302, then the particular media item (or its associated preference file) can be either removed (deleted) from the media player 100 or transmitted (e.g., uploaded) over the communications link 305 to the personal computer 302. Hence, by providing the media player 100 with a media/preference file database 320, more sophisticated synchronization and management of media content (and any associated preference files) is enabled.
[0022] The media/preference file database 320 also allows the media player 100 to present a user interface to the user that is more sophisticated then conventional approaches. Such a user interface can be presented on the screen display of the media player 100. The user interface can, for example, allow the user of the media player 100 to browse, sort, search, play, etc. the media content resident on the media player 100 using the functions programmed into the programmable input button 108 using the associated preference file. The user interface can also allow the user of the media player 100 to download (add) or delete (remove) media items from the media player 100. The media manager 301 also has a user interface that allows a user to browse, sort, search, play, make play lists, burn Compact Discs (CDs), etc. the media content resident on the personal computer 302. The user interface can also allow the user of the personal computer 302 to download (add) or delete (remove) media items from the personal computer 302. h one embodiment, the media manager 301 and its associated user interface are provided by iTunes, version 2.0, from Apple Computer, h e. of Cupertino, California. [0023] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of media manager processing 400 according to one embodiment of the invention. The media manager processing 400 is, for example, performed by the media manager 301 illustrated in FIG. 3. [0024] The media manager processing 400 initially detects 402 a media player connected to a personal computer (host computer). Here, when a media player is connected to the personal computer, a synchronization operation can be performed to synchronize the media content and any associated preference files between the media player and the personal computer. After the media player has been detected as being connected to the personal computer, the media content and any associated preference files between the media player and the personal computer can be synchronized 404. The synchronization can be performed in a one-way manner or in a two-way manner, hi a preferred embodiment, the synchronization is one-way from the personal computer to the media player. In another embodiment, the synchronization can be one-way from the media player to the personal computer. In still another embodiment, the synchronization can be two-way from the media player to the personal computer as well as from the personal computer to the media player. In any case, the media player typically has less media storage capacity than the personal computer and thus may limit the extent of the synchronization that can be performed. In this way, a preference file can be passed from the media player back to the host computer so as to provide a mechanism whereby the particular preference file can be made available to other media players coupled to (presently or in the future) to the host computer.
[0025] It should be noted that the synchronization processing can be performed manually assuming that a media player has already been detected 402 or automatically upon such detection. In the case of automatic synchronization following detection 402 of the connection, synchronization is performed without a user interacting with any buttons or user interface elements, that is, the connection itself initiates the synchronization.
[0026] FIG. 5 is flow diagram of synchronization processing 500 according to one embodiment of the invention. The synchronization processing 500 is, for example, performed by a host computer, such as the personal computer 302 illustrated in FIG. 1. More specifically, the synchronization processing 500 is performed by the media manager 301 illustrated in FIG. 3. [0027] The synchronization processing 500 initially reads 502 player media information from a media/preference file database on a media player. Next, the player information is compared 504 with first media/preference file information from a media/preference file database on a host computer. Such comparison produces comparison information concerning differences between the player information and the host infonnation. Next, the synchronization processing 500 determines 506 one or more media items to copy between the host computer and the media player based on the comparison information. For example, media items (e.g., audio files for songs) can be compared using media information such as song title, album name and/or artist name which pertain to characteristics or attributes of the media items. On the other hand, programmable button functionality can be compared using preference data on the media player and that associated with a particular media file or files. Thereafter, the determined one or more media items are copied 508 and the appropriate media/preference file database(s) are updated. Following the operation 508, the synchronization processing 500 is complete and ends.
[0028] According to one embodiment, the comparison of player media information and host media information is performed using media attributes of the various media items as well as any associated programmable button preference file. Namely, a media item on the media player can be deemed the same media item as resident on the host computer if its media attributes sufficiently match. Examples of media attributes include title, album, track, artist, composer and genre. These attributes are particular to a particular media item. In addition, other media attributes can pertain to quality characteristics of the media item. Examples of such media attributes include bit rate, sample rate, equalization setting, volume adjustment, start/stop and total time as well as associated preference file(s). Hence, in one embodiment, if the above-identified media attributes pertaining to a media item on the media player all match those same media attributes pertaining to a media item on the host computer, then the two media items stored on different devices can be deemed the same even though still further attributes or characteristics may cause these media items to not be exact duplications of one another. For example, if modification dates associated with respective files storing the media items were different, this difference in modification date would not trigger the copying of such media items from the host computer to the media player when the above-identified media attributes match. However, if the programmable button preference files do not match, then only the programmable button preference files are updated.
[0029] Hence, the intelligence of the synchronization processing of the invention allows the amount of data transfer to be properly managed such that it is relatively low or minimized. Although conventional approaches are able to transfer files from a host computer to a portable device, when dealing with media items, filenames and modification dates tend not to be reliable indicators of whether data transfer needs to be transferred (i.e., copied). As a result, using conventional data transfer techniques with respect to media items results in slow and inefficient operation and thus tends to present an unsatisfactory user experience.
[0030] Although the synchronization processing 500 makes use of media databases at the host computer and the media player, in another embodiment, the needed host media information and the player media information can be gathered from the media items themselves. In one implementation, such media information can be acquired from metadata provided with the media items. However, by providing the media databases, synchronization is able to be performed more efficiently and quickly. [0031] FIGs. 6 A and 6B illustrate media device synchronization processing 600 according to one embodiment of the invention. The media device synchronization processing 600 is performed by a media device that interacts with a host computer over a network. For example, the media device can pertain to the media player 100 illustrated in FIG. .
[0032] The media device synchronization processing 600 is generally operative on the media device when the media device is powered-on. Initially, a decision 602 determines whether the media device has just been coupled to a bus. The decision 602 can be performed periodically to check for a recent connection to a bus or can be triggered by hardware detection of connection to a bus. The bus is a communication bus coupled to the host computer, h one embodiment, the bus is a serial bus such as FIREWIRE or Universal Serial Bus (USB). When the decision 602 determines that the media device has not just been coupled to a bus, then the media device is operated 604 as a media player. In such a mode, the media device operates to browse, search or play media items for its user. The media items can be audio items (e.g., songs). Following the operation 604, the media device synchronization processing 600 returns to repeat the decision 602 and subsequent operations. [0033] On the other hand, when the decision 602 determines that the media device has just been coupled to the bus, then the media device is placed in a hard disk mode 606. In the hard disk mode, the media device acts as an external hard drive to the host computer. A decision 608 then determines whether the host computer has requested media and or programmable button attributes for the media items residing on the media device. When the decision 608 determines that the host computer is not requesting media and or programmable button attributes, the media device can, but need not, perform other hard drive operations for non-synchronization purposes (not shown). When the decision 608 determines that the host computer is requesting media and or programmable button attributes (i.e., such as through a read operation), then the media and or programmable button attributes of the media items stored on the media device are retrieved 610. After the media and or programmable button attributes are retrieved 610, the media attributes are forwarded 612 to the host computer.
[0034] Next, a decision 614 determines whether new and or programmable button attributes has been received at the media device from the host computer. In other words, in an effort to synchronize the media content and or programmable button attributes residing on the media device with the media content and or programmable button attributes residing at the host computer, the media device will often receive media content from the host computer. Hence, the decision 614 determines whether new media items and or programmable button attributes have been or are presently being received. When the decision 614 determines that such new media items and or programmable button attributes have not been received, then the media device synchronization processing 600 can await such new media items and or programmable button attributes. While waiting for new media items and or programmable button attributes, the media device can, but need not, perform other hard drive operations for non-synchronization purposes (not shown). More generally, other hard disk operations can occur concurrently with synchronization operations. On the other hand, when the decision 614 determines that new media items and or programmable button attributes have been received from the host computer, then the new media items and their associated media attributes and or programmable button attributes are stored 616 to the media device, h one embodiment, the new media items and or programmable button attributes are stored to files in the media device, and the associated media attributes and or programmable button attributes pertaining to the media items are stored in a media database residing on the media device. Additionally, any unneeded media items and their associated media attributes and or programmable button attributes can be removed 618 from the media device. Hence, in this embodiment, by synchronizing the media content and or programmable button attributes residing on the media device with that on the host computer, new media items and or programmable button attributes are not only stored to the media device, but unneeded (e.g., old) media items and their associated media attributes and or programmable button attributes are also removed from the media device. [0035] Following the operation 618, a decision 620 determines whether a play list update has been received. When the decision 620 determines that a play list update has not been received, then the media device synchronization processing 600 can await such a play list update. Alternatively, when the decision 620 determines that a play list update has been received, then an updated play list for the media device is produced 622. The play list update could be the updated play list or could be instructions to update an existing play list. The updated play list is then stored 622 to the media device.
[0036] h effect, one or more play lists at the host computer can be synchronized with the media device and thus made available to the media device. A play list identifies particular media items that are to be played in a sequence. Internally, the play list can be represented in the media database as a data structure that points to files of the appropriate media items residing on the storage device within the media device. Hence, for a given play list, the pointers to the files of the appropriate media items on the media device will differ from the pointers to the files for the same media items on the host computer, thus the need to update the pointers if a particular play list is moved between the host computer and the media device. [0037] FIGs. 7 A and 7B are flow diagrams of host computer synchronization processing 700 according to one embodiment of the invention. The host computer synchronization processing 700 is, for example, performed by a host computer. The host computer can, for example, be the personal computer 104 illustrated in FIG. 1. [0038] The host computer synchronization processing 700 begins with a decision 702 which monitors a bus (i.e., peripheral bus) to determine whether any new devices have been attached, h one implementation, the monitoring is limited to a particular category of devices (e.g., FIREWIRE devices). Such monitoring can, for example, be performed by polling the device(s) on the bus or by receiving a new device alert. When the decision 702 determines that no new devices have been attached to the bus, then the host computer synchronization processing 700 awaits the presence of a new device. Once the decision 702 determines that a new device is present on the bus, then the device is set up 704 as a file system with respect to the host computer. As such, an operating system for the host computer is able to access (read, write and delete) files with respect to the file system (i.e., the new device). [0039] Next, a decision 706 determines whether the device that is now present on the bus is a media device. When the decision 706 determines that the device is not a media device, then other processing 708 can be performed. Such other processing 708 is unrelated to synchronization processing and thus not further described herein. Following the other processing 708, the host computer synchronization processing 700 is complete and ends with synchronization not having been performed. [0040] On the other hand, when the decision 706 determines that the device is a media device, then media attributes and or programmable button attributes for media items on the media device are requested 710. Typically, the media attributes and or programmable button attributes for all the media items residing on the media device would be retrieved. A decision 712 then determines whether the media attributes and or programmable button attributes have been received. When the decision 712 determines that the media attributes and or programmable button attributes have not yet been received, then the host computer synchronization processing 700 can await their receipt. Once the decision 712 determines that the media attributes and or programmable button attributes have been received, then the media attributes and or programmable button attributes from the media device are compared 714 with media attributes and or programmable button attributes for the media items residing on the host computer. Here, the comparison 714 of media attributes and or programmable button attributes with respect to the media device and the host computer results in comparison information. The comparison information indicates directly or indirectly which media items and or programmable button attributes are present at the host computer but not present at the media device as well as which media items and or programmable button attributes are present at the media device but not present at the host computer. Following the comparing 714, the media items and or programmable button attributes on the host computer that are not on the media device are identified 716.
[0041] Next, a decision 718 determines whether the media device has the capacity to store all the identified media items and or programmable button attributes. Here, the decision 718 determines whether the media device has sufficient storage capacity to store the one or more media items and or programmable button attributes that have been identified 716 as on the host computer but not on the media device. When the decision 718 determines that the media device does not have sufficient capacity, then the number of media items and or programmable button attributes to be stored is limited 720. There are numerous ways to limit the number of media items and or programmable button attributes to be stored. For example, one or more of the media items and or programmable button attributes to be stored can be unidentified such that it is not to be stored to the media device. The one or more media items and or programmable button attributes to be unidentified can be chosen in a variety of different ways. For example, the one or more items to be unidentified could be randomly selected, selected based on file size, selected based on position in play list, etc. Following the operation 720, the host computer synchronization processing 700 returns to repeat the decision 718 and subsequent operations. [0042] When the decision 718 determines that the media device has sufficient capacity to store all of the identified media items and or programmable button attributes, the identified media items and their associated media attributes and or programmable button attributes are sent to the media device. Here, the remaining identified media items and their associated media attributes and or programmable button attributes are sent (i.e., copied) from the host computer to the media device where they are to be stored. A play list can also be sent 724 to the media device. The play list can represent a new play list or an updated version of a previously existing play list. Before sending 724 the play list to the media device, the play list can be modified for use on the media device. Alternatively, the media device itself could update the play list for use on the media device.
[0043] Additionally, although not illustrated in FIGs. 7A and 7B, according to another embodiment, the host computer synchronization processing 700 at operation 714 can also identify those of the media items and or programmable button attributes on the media device that are not on the host computer. Then, the host computer can operate to interact with the media device to remove (e.g., delete) those media items and or programmable button attributes stored on the media device that are not stored at the host server. Such additional processing would be performed after the operation 716 and prior to the decision 718 so that the storage capacity of the media device can be fully utilized.
[0044] The media device synchronization processing 600 and the host computer synchronization processing 700 interact to synchronize media items and or programmable button attributes on the media device to those media items and or programmable button attributes on the host computer. Such synchronization can consider all media items and or programmable button attributes or can be limited to synchronizing only a subset of media content, such as media items pertaining to one or more play lists, or programmable button attributes. The media attribute comparison provided by the invention is facilitated through the use of databases, both on the host computer and on the media device.
[0045] In one implementation, the host computer synchronization processing 700 can utilize an application resident on the host computer to perform the comparison and updating of the media items and their attributes between the host computer and the media device. One such application is iTunes, version 2.0, produced by Apple Computer, ie. of Cupertino, CA.
[0046] FIG. 8 shows a flowchart detailing a manual updating procedure 800 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Accordingly, the manual updating includes open user preference selection application on host computer at 802 and using the selection application, a user selects user input icon preferences at 804. At 806, the application creates user preference file while at 808 the user preference file passed to target device. At 810, configure target device buttons based upon preference file. [0047] FIG. 9 illustrates a computer system 900 employed to implement the invention. The computer system 900 or, more specifically, CPU 902, may be arranged to support a virtual machine, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. As is well known in the art, ROM acts to transfer data and instructions uni- directionally to the CPU 902, while RAM is used typically to transfer data and instructions in a bi-directional manner. CPU 902 may generally include any number of processors. Both primary storage devices 904, 906 may include any suitable computer-readable media. A secondary storage medium 908, which is typically a mass memory device, is also coupled bi-directionally to CPU 902 and provides additional data storage capacity. The mass memory device 908 is a computer- readable medium that may be used to store programs including computer code, data, and the like. Typically, mass memory device 908 is a storage medium such as a hard disk or a tape which generally slower than primary storage devices 904, 906. Mass memory storage device 908 may take the form of a magnetic or paper tape reader or some other well-known device. It will be appreciated that the information retained within the mass memory device 908, may, in appropriate cases, be incorporated in standard fashion as part of RAM 906 as virtual memory. A specific primary storage device 904 such as a CD-ROM may also pass data uni-directionally to the CPU 902. [0048] CPU 902 are also coupled to one or more input/output devices 910 that may include, but are not limited to, devices such as video monitors, track balls, mice, keyboards, microphones, touch-sensitive displays, transducer card readers, magnetic or paper tape readers, tablets, styluses, voice or handwriting recognizers, or other well-known input devices such as, of course, other computers. Finally, CPU 902 optionally may be coupled to a computer or telecommunications network, e.g., an Internet network or an intranet network, using a network connection as shown generally at 912. With such a network connection, it is contemplated that the CPU 902 might receive information from the network, or might output information to the network in the course of performing the above-described method steps. Such information, which is often represented as a sequence of instructions to be executed using CPU 902, may be received from and outputted to the network, for example, in the form of a computer data signal embodied in a carrier wave. The above-described devices and materials will be familiar to those of skill in the computer hardware and software arts.
[0049] The various aspects or features of the invention described above can be used alone or in various combinations.
[0050] Although the media items of emphasis in several of the above embodiments where audio items (e.g., audio files or songs), the media items are not limited to audio items. For example, the media item can alternatively, pertain to videos (e.g., movies) or images (e.g., photos).
[0051] The invention is preferably implemented by software, but can also be implemented in 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, DNDs, 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. [0052] The advantages of the invention are numerous. Different embodiments or implementations may yield one or more of the following advantages. One advantage of the invention is that a user is able to synchronize a media player with a host computer in a more sophisticated manner. Another advantage of the invention is that the amount of data transfer required for synchronization is reduced thus enabling faster synchronization. Still another advantage of the invention is that synchronization can be automatically initiated and performed upon connection of a media player to a host computer.
[0053] 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.
[0054] While this invention has been described in terms of a preferred embodiment, there are alterations, permutations, and equivalents that fall within the scope of this invention. It should also be noted that there are many alternative ways of implementing both the process and apparatus of the present invention. It is therefore intended that the invention be interpreted as including all such alterations, permutations, and equivalents as fall within the true spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

WJiat is claimed is:
I . A method of automatically updating a number of user programmable user input sensors in a client device, comprising: generating a preference file at a host computer; passing the preference file from the host computer to the client computer; and updating the programmable input sensors based upon the preference file.
2 A method as recited in claim 1 , wherein the programmable input sensors are each a user programmable button wherein each of the programmable buttons are suitable for receiving a user supplied input event.
3. A method as recited in claim 1 , wherein the generating comprises: providing a preference file that includes, a set of desired functionalities, and a button map that maps each of the functionalities to at least one of the programmable buttons.
4. A method as recited in claim 3, wherein the updating comprises: mapping the functionalities to the at least one of the programmable buttons or a combination of programmable buttons.
5. A method as recited in claim 1, wherein the host computer and the client device are wirelessly coupled and wherein the passing is a wireless transmission.
6. A method as recited in claim 1, wherein the host computer and the client device are coupled by way of a connector cable.
7. A method as recited in claim 6, wherein the connector cable is a Fire Wire cable or a USB cable.
8. A method as recited in claim 1, wherein the preference file is stored in a computer readable medium and wherein the preference file is passed from the host computer to the client device by way of the computer readable medium.
9. A method as recited in claim 1, wherein the client device is a thin client device that includes a small display screen.
10. A method as recited in claim 9, wherein the client device is a cellular telephone or a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) or paging device or a MP3 player.
I I. A thin client device arranged to be coupled to a host computer suitably configured for storing any of a number of appropriately formatted data files, comprising: a display unit for displaying selected graphical data; a processor coupled to the display unit for executing selected instructions; a user interface coupled to the processor arranged to receive user supplied input events; a user interface programming unit coupled to the user interface arranged to selectively program the user interface based upon a selected number of functions to be performed by the user interface.
12. A thin client as recited in claim 11, further comprising: a storage device suitably arranged to store a preference file
13. A thin client as recited in claim 11, wherein the user interface includes a number of user input buttons each of which can be programmed according to the preference file.
14. A system arranged to automatically update a number of user programmable user interface buttons in a client device coupled to a host computer, comprising: a preference file generator coupled to the host computer; and a programmable buttons programming unit configured to update the programmable buttons based upon the preference file the preference file is passed from the host computer to the client computer.
15. A system as recited in claim 14, wherein each of the programmable buttons are suitable for receiving a user supplied input event.
16. A system as recited in claim 14 further comprising: a preference file that includes, a set of desired functionalities, and a button map that maps each of the functionalities to at least one of the programmable buttons.
17. A system as recited in claim 16, further comprising: wherein the functionalities are mapped to the at least one of the programmable buttons or a combination of programmable buttons.
18. A system as recited in claim 14, wherein the host computer and the client device are wirelessly coupled and wherein the passing is a wireless transmission.
19. A system as recited in claim 14, wherein the host computer and the client device are coupled by way of a connector cable.
20. A system as recited in claim 19, wherein the connector cable is a Fire Wire cable or a USB cable.
21. A system as recited in claim 14, wherein the preference file is stored in a computer readable medium and wherein the preference file is passed from the host computer to the client device byway of the computer readable medium.
22. A system as recited in claim 14, wherein the client device is a thin client device that includes a small display screen.
23. A system as recited in claim 22, wherein the client device is a cellular telephone or a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) or paging device or a MP3 player.
24. Computer program product for of automatically updating a number of user programmable user input sensors in a client device, comprising: computer code for generating a preference file at a host computer; computer code for passing the preference file from the host computer to the client computer; computer code for updating the programmable input sensors based upon the preference file; and computer readable medium for storing the computer code.
25 Computer program product as recited in claim 24, wherein the programmable input sensors are each a user programmable button wherein each of the programmable buttons are suitable for receiving a user supplied input event.
26. Computer program product as recited in claim 24, wherein the computer code for generating further comprises: computer code for providing a set of desired functionalities; and computer code for providing a button map that maps each of the functionalities to at least one of the programmable buttons.
27. Computer program product as recited in claim 26, wherein the computer code for updating further comprises: computer code for mapping the functionalities to the at least one of the programmable buttons or a combination of programmable buttons.
28. Computer program product as recited in claim 24, wherein the host computer and the client device are wirelessly coupled and wherein the passing is a wireless transmission.
29. Computer program product as recited in claim 24, wherein the host computer and the client device are coupled by way of a connector cable.
30. Computer program product as recited in claim 29, wherein the connector cable is a Fire Wire cable or a USB cable.
31. Computer program product as recited in claim 24, wherein the preference file is stored in a computer readable medium.
32. Computer program product as recited in claim 24, further comprising: computer code for passing the preference file from the host computer to the client device by way of the computer readable medium.
33. Computer program product as recited in claim 24, wherein the client device is a thin client device that includes a small display screen.
34. Computer program product as recited in claim 33, wherein the client device is a cellular telephone or a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) or paging device or a MP3 player.
PCT/US2004/010299 2003-06-02 2004-04-02 Automatically updating user-programmable input sensors to perform user specified functions WO2004109427A2 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US47558003P 2003-06-02 2003-06-02
US60/475,580 2003-06-02
US10/654,675 US7281214B2 (en) 2003-06-02 2003-09-03 Automatically updating user programmable input sensors to perform user specified functions
US10/654,675 2003-09-03

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2004109427A2 true WO2004109427A2 (en) 2004-12-16
WO2004109427A3 WO2004109427A3 (en) 2005-11-03

Family

ID=33457688

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2004/010299 WO2004109427A2 (en) 2003-06-02 2004-04-02 Automatically updating user-programmable input sensors to perform user specified functions

Country Status (2)

Country Link
US (1) US7281214B2 (en)
WO (1) WO2004109427A2 (en)

Families Citing this family (115)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US7808479B1 (en) 2003-09-02 2010-10-05 Apple Inc. Ambidextrous mouse
US7073130B2 (en) * 2001-01-31 2006-07-04 Microsoft Corporation Methods and systems for creating skins
US6791581B2 (en) * 2001-01-31 2004-09-14 Microsoft Corporation Methods and systems for synchronizing skin properties
US7466992B1 (en) 2001-10-18 2008-12-16 Iwao Fujisaki Communication device
US7127271B1 (en) 2001-10-18 2006-10-24 Iwao Fujisaki Communication device
US7107081B1 (en) 2001-10-18 2006-09-12 Iwao Fujisaki Communication device
US7656393B2 (en) 2005-03-04 2010-02-02 Apple Inc. Electronic device having display and surrounding touch sensitive bezel for user interface and control
US11275405B2 (en) 2005-03-04 2022-03-15 Apple Inc. Multi-functional hand-held device
WO2004018323A1 (en) * 2002-08-23 2004-03-04 Pfizer Products Inc. Apparatus for dispensing articles
US7358963B2 (en) 2002-09-09 2008-04-15 Apple Inc. Mouse having an optically-based scrolling feature
US20040063502A1 (en) * 2002-09-24 2004-04-01 Intec, Inc. Power module
US8229512B1 (en) 2003-02-08 2012-07-24 Iwao Fujisaki Communication device
US8241128B1 (en) 2003-04-03 2012-08-14 Iwao Fujisaki Communication device
US7281214B2 (en) * 2003-06-02 2007-10-09 Apple Inc. Automatically updating user programmable input sensors to perform user specified functions
US8090402B1 (en) 2003-09-26 2012-01-03 Iwao Fujisaki Communication device
US7917167B1 (en) 2003-11-22 2011-03-29 Iwao Fujisaki Communication device
US7421656B2 (en) * 2004-01-05 2008-09-02 Microsoft Corporation Systems and methods for interacting with a user interface of a media player
US20050198152A1 (en) * 2004-02-12 2005-09-08 International Business Machines Corporation Computer with a personal digital assistant
US8041348B1 (en) 2004-03-23 2011-10-18 Iwao Fujisaki Communication device
JP4133902B2 (en) * 2004-03-30 2008-08-13 Necパーソナルプロダクツ株式会社 Information processing apparatus, content recording method, program, and recording medium
US8117651B2 (en) 2004-04-27 2012-02-14 Apple Inc. Method and system for authenticating an accessory
US7526588B1 (en) 2004-04-27 2009-04-28 Apple Inc. Communication between an accessory and a media player using a protocol with multiple lingoes
US7529870B1 (en) 2004-04-27 2009-05-05 Apple Inc. Communication between an accessory and a media player with multiple lingoes
US7634605B2 (en) * 2004-04-27 2009-12-15 Apple Inc. Method and system for transferring stored data between a media player and an accessory
US7797471B2 (en) 2004-04-27 2010-09-14 Apple Inc. Method and system for transferring album artwork between a media player and an accessory
US7826318B2 (en) 2004-04-27 2010-11-02 Apple Inc. Method and system for allowing a media player to transfer digital audio to an accessory
US7895378B2 (en) * 2004-04-27 2011-02-22 Apple Inc. Method and system for allowing a media player to transfer digital audio to an accessory
US7673083B2 (en) * 2004-04-27 2010-03-02 Apple Inc. Method and system for controlling video selection and playback in a portable media player
US7441062B2 (en) 2004-04-27 2008-10-21 Apple Inc. Connector interface system for enabling data communication with a multi-communication device
US7529872B1 (en) 2004-04-27 2009-05-05 Apple Inc. Communication between an accessory and a media player using a protocol with multiple lingoes
US7441058B1 (en) 2006-09-11 2008-10-21 Apple Inc. Method and system for controlling an accessory having a tuner
US20060012569A1 (en) * 2004-07-19 2006-01-19 Creative Technology Ltd. Scrolling interface for media player
US20060064303A1 (en) * 2004-09-17 2006-03-23 Seiler Dieter G Method and apparatus for programming a portable device
US7823214B2 (en) 2005-01-07 2010-10-26 Apple Inc. Accessory authentication for electronic devices
US7680835B2 (en) * 2005-02-28 2010-03-16 Microsoft Corporation Online storage with metadata-based retrieval
US20060247851A1 (en) * 2005-03-08 2006-11-02 Morris Robert P Mobile phone having a TV remote style user interface
US20080172610A1 (en) * 2005-03-11 2008-07-17 Paul Blair Customizable User Interface For Electronic Devices
US20060248235A1 (en) * 2005-03-21 2006-11-02 Sony Corporation Method and apparatus for data collection in a media player
US20060232554A1 (en) * 2005-04-14 2006-10-19 Creative Technology Ltd. Scrolling interface for media player
JP2006323664A (en) * 2005-05-19 2006-11-30 Sony Corp Electronic equipment
US7684566B2 (en) 2005-05-27 2010-03-23 Microsoft Corporation Encryption scheme for streamed multimedia content protected by rights management system
US7710397B2 (en) 2005-06-03 2010-05-04 Apple Inc. Mouse with improved input mechanisms using touch sensors
JPWO2007004258A1 (en) * 2005-06-30 2009-01-22 スパンション エルエルシー Semiconductor device and manufacturing method thereof
US8321690B2 (en) 2005-08-11 2012-11-27 Microsoft Corporation Protecting digital media of various content types
US20070040808A1 (en) * 2005-08-22 2007-02-22 Creative Technology Ltd. User configurable button
USD548744S1 (en) * 2005-08-24 2007-08-14 Apple, Inc. Media device
US8306918B2 (en) 2005-10-11 2012-11-06 Apple Inc. Use of media storage structure with multiple pieces of content in a content-distribution system
CN1967510A (en) * 2005-11-18 2007-05-23 鸿富锦精密工业(深圳)有限公司 System and method to control computer by input device of external device
US8077147B2 (en) 2005-12-30 2011-12-13 Apple Inc. Mouse with optical sensing surface
US20070159454A1 (en) * 2006-01-09 2007-07-12 Wendeline Rodriguez Control panel for an electronic device
US20070171196A1 (en) * 2006-01-23 2007-07-26 Thomas Robert Pfingsten Controller user interface and method
US7801847B2 (en) * 2006-03-27 2010-09-21 Microsoft Corporation Media file conversion using plug-ins
US8224751B2 (en) * 2006-05-03 2012-07-17 Apple Inc. Device-independent management of cryptographic information
US8006019B2 (en) 2006-05-22 2011-08-23 Apple, Inc. Method and system for transferring stored data between a media player and an accessory
US7415563B1 (en) 2006-06-27 2008-08-19 Apple Inc. Method and system for allowing a media player to determine if it supports the capabilities of an accessory
US20080001915A1 (en) * 2006-06-30 2008-01-03 Nokia Corporation Input device of mobile devices
US7996789B2 (en) 2006-08-04 2011-08-09 Apple Inc. Methods and apparatuses to control application programs
USD560228S1 (en) 2006-09-01 2008-01-22 Apple Inc. Media device
US7558894B1 (en) 2006-09-11 2009-07-07 Apple Inc. Method and system for controlling power provided to an accessory
US20080077679A1 (en) * 2006-09-27 2008-03-27 Bawany M Ali Program generation based on user playback information
US20080079689A1 (en) * 2006-10-02 2008-04-03 Nokia Corporation Rotating UI for better usage
US7925809B2 (en) * 2006-10-24 2011-04-12 Apple Inc. Systems and methods for storage management in a data processing device
US20100005389A1 (en) * 2006-10-27 2010-01-07 Soren Borup Jensen Apparatus and method for a user to select one or more pieces of information
US7920901B2 (en) * 2007-02-28 2011-04-05 Research In Motion Limited System and method for providing visual indicators in a media application
USD609714S1 (en) * 2007-03-22 2010-02-09 Fujifilm Corporation Electronic camera
US20080250431A1 (en) * 2007-04-04 2008-10-09 Research In Motion Limited System and method for displaying media files in a media application for a portable media device
MX2009011270A (en) 2007-04-20 2009-11-02 Kohler Co User interface for controlling a bathroom plumbing fixture.
US7890089B1 (en) 2007-05-03 2011-02-15 Iwao Fujisaki Communication device
US8347098B2 (en) 2007-05-22 2013-01-01 Apple Inc. Media storage structures for storing content, devices for using such structures, systems for distributing such structures
US9311492B2 (en) 2007-05-22 2016-04-12 Apple Inc. Media storage structures for storing content, devices for using such structures, systems for distributing such structures
US20090031237A1 (en) * 2007-07-26 2009-01-29 Nokia Corporation Displaying and navigating through multiple applications
AU2008282367B2 (en) * 2007-07-27 2012-08-02 Deluxe Media Inc. Methods and systems for use in customizing displayed content associated with a portable storage medium
US8676273B1 (en) 2007-08-24 2014-03-18 Iwao Fujisaki Communication device
US20090066506A1 (en) * 2007-09-07 2009-03-12 Niizawa Derek T Electronic device with circuitry operative to change an orientation of an indicator and method for use therewith
US9154846B2 (en) * 2007-09-10 2015-10-06 Verizon Patent And Licensing Inc. Coordinated multi-media playback
US8639214B1 (en) 2007-10-26 2014-01-28 Iwao Fujisaki Communication device
US7761602B1 (en) * 2007-11-26 2010-07-20 Adobe Systems Incorporated Playback of content on portable devices
US20090144943A1 (en) * 2007-12-11 2009-06-11 Manuel Arranz Del Rosal Interchangeable electronic device clip
US20090160762A1 (en) * 2007-12-20 2009-06-25 Apple Inc. User input device with expanded functionality
US8090767B2 (en) * 2008-01-07 2012-01-03 Apple Inc. Pairing and storage access scheme between a handheld device and a computing system
US8863189B2 (en) 2008-02-19 2014-10-14 AT&T Intellectual Properties I, LP System for configuring soft keys in a media communication system
US8047966B2 (en) 2008-02-29 2011-11-01 Apple Inc. Interfacing portable media devices and sports equipment
US8543157B1 (en) 2008-05-09 2013-09-24 Iwao Fujisaki Communication device which notifies its pin-point location or geographic area in accordance with user selection
US20100293462A1 (en) * 2008-05-13 2010-11-18 Apple Inc. Pushing a user interface to a remote device
US9311115B2 (en) 2008-05-13 2016-04-12 Apple Inc. Pushing a graphical user interface to a remote device with display rules provided by the remote device
US20090284476A1 (en) * 2008-05-13 2009-11-19 Apple Inc. Pushing a user interface to a remote device
US8970647B2 (en) 2008-05-13 2015-03-03 Apple Inc. Pushing a graphical user interface to a remote device with display rules provided by the remote device
US9870130B2 (en) 2008-05-13 2018-01-16 Apple Inc. Pushing a user interface to a remote device
US8180410B2 (en) 2008-06-06 2012-05-15 Sandisk Technologies Inc. Housing and clip assembly for portable electronics device
US8340726B1 (en) 2008-06-30 2012-12-25 Iwao Fujisaki Communication device
US8452307B1 (en) 2008-07-02 2013-05-28 Iwao Fujisaki Communication device
EP2319041A4 (en) * 2008-07-11 2013-06-05 Bby Solutions Inc Ratings switch for portable media players
US8208853B2 (en) 2008-09-08 2012-06-26 Apple Inc. Accessory device authentication
US8238811B2 (en) 2008-09-08 2012-08-07 Apple Inc. Cross-transport authentication
EP2350860B1 (en) * 2008-11-06 2015-04-08 Deluxe Media Inc. Placeholders in index table for updating a portable storage medium
US8165546B2 (en) * 2009-05-05 2012-04-24 Apple Inc. Communicating radio presets between a portable media player and an accessory
US20110285656A1 (en) * 2010-05-19 2011-11-24 Google Inc. Sliding Motion To Change Computer Keys
US20110296305A1 (en) * 2010-06-01 2011-12-01 Sony Corporation Methods and apparatus for media management
WO2013035068A1 (en) * 2011-09-08 2013-03-14 Nds Limited User interface
USD835118S1 (en) 2012-12-05 2018-12-04 Lg Electronics Inc. Television receiver with graphical user interface
USD716819S1 (en) 2013-02-27 2014-11-04 Microsoft Corporation Display screen with graphical user interface
USD702250S1 (en) 2013-02-27 2014-04-08 Microsoft Corporation Display screen with graphical user interface
USD702251S1 (en) 2013-02-27 2014-04-08 Microsoft Corporation Display screen with graphical user interface
USD702253S1 (en) 2013-02-27 2014-04-08 Microsoft Corporation Display screen with graphical user interface
USD702252S1 (en) 2013-02-27 2014-04-08 Microsoft Corporation Display screen with graphical user interface
USD717677S1 (en) * 2013-03-14 2014-11-18 Hanna Instruments, Inc. Meter
CN103902692B (en) * 2014-03-27 2017-05-10 网易乐得科技有限公司 Application interface updating method, device and system
USD749640S1 (en) * 2015-01-05 2016-02-16 Shenzhen Questyle Audio Technology Co., Ltd Music player
USD765734S1 (en) * 2015-06-26 2016-09-06 Hifiman Electronics Corporation Media player
US10567538B2 (en) * 2016-03-08 2020-02-18 Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd Distributed hierarchical cache management system and method
JP1571991S (en) * 2016-06-08 2017-03-21
JP1580282S (en) * 2016-11-24 2017-07-03
JP1585884S (en) * 2017-01-20 2017-09-11
USD828324S1 (en) * 2017-08-23 2018-09-11 Iriver Limited Digital audio player
US11561612B1 (en) * 2021-08-10 2023-01-24 Synaptics Incorporated AR/VR navigation with authentication using an integrated scrollwheel and fingerprint sensor user input apparatus

Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5121477A (en) * 1988-04-08 1992-06-09 International Business Machines Inc. System for interactively creating action bar pull-down windows of a user interface for use at program run time
US5867729A (en) * 1995-08-23 1999-02-02 Toshiba America Information Systems, Inc. System for reconfiguring a keyboard configuration in response to an event status information related to a computer's location determined by using triangulation technique
US6717569B1 (en) * 2000-02-29 2004-04-06 Microsoft Corporation Control device with enhanced control aspects and method for programming same
US6720951B2 (en) * 2000-04-26 2004-04-13 Nec Corporation Key customizing method and portable terminal device
US6829512B2 (en) * 2000-11-20 2004-12-07 Universal Electronics Inc. System and method for creating a controlling device
US6848014B2 (en) * 2001-01-23 2005-01-25 Symbol Technologies, Inc. Adapter unit for a personal digital assistant having automatically configurable application buttons

Family Cites Families (14)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5287514A (en) * 1990-01-08 1994-02-15 Microsoft Corporation Method and system for customizing a user interface in a computer system
JPH07117868B2 (en) * 1991-04-30 1995-12-18 インターナショナル・ビジネス・マシーンズ・コーポレイション Method and device for defining touch-type operating keyboard
DE19651833A1 (en) * 1996-12-13 1998-06-18 Alsthom Cge Alcatel Method for setting and performing freely programmable functions of a telecommunications terminal, and such a telecommunications terminal
GB2333386B (en) * 1998-01-14 2002-06-12 Nokia Mobile Phones Ltd Method and apparatus for inputting information
US6199125B1 (en) * 1998-05-26 2001-03-06 Bentley Systems, Incorporated Input manager for a computer application with display icons mapped to a user selectable set of standard keyboard keys
US20030037020A1 (en) * 2000-02-22 2003-02-20 Lars Novak Method and apparatus for synchronizing databases of portable devices without change logs
AU2001289212A1 (en) * 2000-09-11 2002-03-26 Viafone, Inc. Method and system for integrating applications and mobile networks
US20020093535A1 (en) * 2001-01-17 2002-07-18 Murphy Michael William User interface for character entry using a minimum number of selection keys
US6724370B2 (en) * 2001-04-12 2004-04-20 International Business Machines Corporation Touchscreen user interface
US6505086B1 (en) * 2001-08-13 2003-01-07 William A. Dodd, Jr. XML sensor system
US20030197736A1 (en) * 2002-01-16 2003-10-23 Murphy Michael W. User interface for character entry using a minimum number of selection keys
US20030229654A1 (en) * 2002-06-10 2003-12-11 Advanced Barcode Technology, Inc. PDASync - a synching method between a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant) client or clients and a host computer supporting one-to-many and many-to-one database synchronization
JP2004030535A (en) * 2002-06-28 2004-01-29 Toshiba Corp Information processor and input supporting method used in the processor
US7281214B2 (en) * 2003-06-02 2007-10-09 Apple Inc. Automatically updating user programmable input sensors to perform user specified functions

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5121477A (en) * 1988-04-08 1992-06-09 International Business Machines Inc. System for interactively creating action bar pull-down windows of a user interface for use at program run time
US5867729A (en) * 1995-08-23 1999-02-02 Toshiba America Information Systems, Inc. System for reconfiguring a keyboard configuration in response to an event status information related to a computer's location determined by using triangulation technique
US6717569B1 (en) * 2000-02-29 2004-04-06 Microsoft Corporation Control device with enhanced control aspects and method for programming same
US6720951B2 (en) * 2000-04-26 2004-04-13 Nec Corporation Key customizing method and portable terminal device
US6829512B2 (en) * 2000-11-20 2004-12-07 Universal Electronics Inc. System and method for creating a controlling device
US6848014B2 (en) * 2001-01-23 2005-01-25 Symbol Technologies, Inc. Adapter unit for a personal digital assistant having automatically configurable application buttons

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2004109427A3 (en) 2005-11-03
US20040242269A1 (en) 2004-12-02
US7281214B2 (en) 2007-10-09

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US7281214B2 (en) Automatically updating user programmable input sensors to perform user specified functions
US20030167318A1 (en) Intelligent synchronization of media player with host computer
US7769903B2 (en) Intelligent interaction between media player and host computer
US8584014B2 (en) Information processing apparatus and information processing method
CN101398850B (en) Multiple media type synchronization between host computer and media device
JP4388122B2 (en) Data transfer method, operation method of portable media device, and media management method
US9557877B2 (en) Advanced playlist creation
US7330874B2 (en) Information processing apparatus and information processing method
US8015261B2 (en) Information processing apparatus with first and second sending/receiving units
GB2405720A (en) Method for playing a media item on a portable media player with automatic quality settings
AU2007202654B2 (en) Intelligent synchronization for a media player
AU2002340261B2 (en) Intelligent synchronization for a media player
AU2002340261A1 (en) Intelligent synchronization for a media player

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AK Designated states

Kind code of ref document: A2

Designated state(s): AE AG AL AM AT AU AZ BA BB BG BR BW BY BZ CA CH CN CO CR CU CZ DE DK DM DZ EC EE EG ES FI GB GD GE GH GM HR HU ID IL IN IS JP KE KG KP KR KZ LC LK LR LS LT LU LV MA MD MG MK MN MW MX MZ NA NI NO NZ OM PG PH PL PT RO RU SC SD SE SG SK SL SY TJ TM TN TR TT TZ UA UG US UZ VC VN YU ZA ZM ZW

AL Designated countries for regional patents

Kind code of ref document: A2

Designated state(s): BW GH GM KE LS MW MZ SD SL SZ TZ UG ZM ZW AM AZ BY KG KZ MD RU TJ TM AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IT LU MC NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR BF BJ CF CG CI CM GA GN GQ GW ML MR NE SN TD TG

121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application
122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase