Wireless accessory notification

Abstract

A system, method, apparatus, and nontransitory computer-readable storage medium are disclosed for: recognizing an enable command received from a charging case by a processor of a wireless device coupled to the charging case; and transmitting a notification signal based on the enable command by the processor, the notification signal including information related to the identification of the wireless device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates in its entirety to the transmission of advertisements from wireless devices. Background Technology

[0002] When a wireless accessory is in active use (e.g., powered on and being used by a user of the wireless accessory and / or the wireless device), the wireless accessory (e.g., wireless earbuds, headphones, headphones, etc.) may periodically transmit status notifications to its paired wireless device (e.g., personal digital assistant (PDA), mobile phone, tablet, etc.). These status notifications allow the user to locate the wireless accessory or monitor its status, such as the battery status of the wireless accessory. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Systems, methods, apparatuses, and nontransitory computer-readable storage media for status notifications from wireless accessories such as earbuds are disclosed.

[0004] In some specific implementations, the computer-implemented method includes: a processor of a wireless device coupled to the charging case recognizing an enable command received from the charging case; and the processor transmitting a notification signal based on the enable command, the notification signal including information related to the identification of the wireless device.

[0005] In some specific implementations, the computer-implemented method includes: a processor of a charging case coupled to one or more wireless devices identifying that an interval timer has elapsed; the processor identifying a first wireless device from the one or more wireless devices; and the processor transmitting an enable command to the first wireless device based on the interval timer, so that the first wireless device transmits a notification signal related to the identification of the first wireless device.

[0006] In some specific implementations, the computer-implemented method includes: a processor of a wireless device coupled to the charging case recognizing an enable command received from the charging case, wherein the wireless device belongs to a pair of wireless devices including the wireless device and another wireless device; and the processor transmitting a notification signal in response to recognizing the enable command, the notification signal including information related to the status of the wireless device and the status of the other wireless device.

[0007] The foregoing and other embodiments may optionally include one or more of the following features, individually or in combination. The method may include the processor determining that it has received a connection with the second wireless device; and the processor, at least in part in response to determining that it has received a connection with the second wireless device, transmitting a wait command to the charging case to cause the charging case to wait for the processor of the wireless device to send a disable command. Determining that the processor has received a connection with the second wireless device may include: the processor determining that it received a connection with the second wireless device while it is transmitting a notification signal.

[0008] In some implementations, the notification signal may be a Bluetooth signal. The method may include a processor recognizing a power signal received from the charging case, the reception of which occurs substantially simultaneously with the transmission of the notification signal. The enable command may be at a first power level. The power signal may be at a second power level different from the first power level. The enable command may be within a first time period. The power signal may be within a second time period different from the first time period. The first time period may be one second. The second time period may be three seconds.

[0009] In some implementations, the method may include having the processor recognize a disable command received from the charging case; and having the processor stop the transmission of notification signals based on the disable command. The method may also include having the processor recognize a wake-up command received from the charging case before recognizing an enable command; and having the processor enter a wake-up operation state based on the wake-up command, which enables the processor to monitor the enable command.

[0010] In some implementations, the method may include, after transmitting a notification signal, having the processor recognize a sleep command received from the charging case; and having the processor enter a sleep operation state based on the sleep command, which causes the processor to skip monitoring for enable commands. Entering the sleep operation state may shut down the processor.

[0011] In some implementations, the method may include having a processor identify that a notification duration timer has elapsed; and having the processor, at least in part, in response to determining that the notification duration timer has elapsed, transmit a disable command to a first wireless device to cause the first wireless device to stop transmitting notification signals. The method may also include having a processor identify that a total duration timer has elapsed; and having the processor, at least in part, in response to identifying that the total duration has elapsed, stop both the interval timer and the total duration timer.

[0012] In some implementations, one or more wireless devices may include two or more wireless devices, including a first wireless device and a second wireless device. The method may include a processor determining that the first wireless device and the second wireless device are uncoupled; and the processor, at least in part in response to determining that the first wireless device and the second wireless device are uncoupled, transmitting a second enable command to the second wireless device to cause the second wireless device to transmit a second notification signal associated with a second identification of the second wireless device.

[0013] In some specific implementations, the method may include transmitting a wake-up command to the first wireless device by the processor before transmitting an enable command to cause the first wireless device to enter a wake-up operation state. The method may also include transmitting a sleep command to the first wireless device by the processor after the first wireless device transmits a notification signal to cause the first wireless device to enter a sleep operation state.

[0014] In some implementations, the one or more wireless devices may include two or more wireless devices. Identifying the first wireless device may include the processor identifying the power level of the corresponding wireless device among the two or more wireless devices. Identifying the first wireless device may include the processor identifying that the first wireless device is coupled to the charging case, while another wireless device among the two or more wireless devices is not coupled to the charging case. Identifying the first wireless device may include the processor identifying which of the two or more wireless devices transmitted a previous notification signal. The notification signal may include a first portion related to the state of the wireless device and a second portion related to the state of the other wireless device.

[0015] In some implementations, the first part may have a length of one bit. Information related to the state of the wireless device may include information related to whether the wireless device is coupled to another wireless device. Information related to the state of another wireless device may indicate that when the wireless device is not coupled to another wireless device, the other wireless device is not in the charging case with the wireless device.

[0016] In some implementations, information related to the state of a wireless device may include information about whether the wireless device is coupled to a charging case. Information related to the state of another wireless device may include information related to the identification of the other wireless device. Identification may indicate whether the other wireless device is coupled to a charging case. Information related to the state of a wireless device or another wireless device may include an indication of whether the wireless device and the other wireless device are wirelessly coupled to each other.

[0017] Details of the specific embodiments disclosed are shown in the following figures and detailed description. Other features, objectives, and advantages will become apparent from the specification, figures, and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 These are examples of wireless systems including wireless accessories, based on various specific implementations.

[0019] Figure 2 This is an exemplary block diagram of a wireless system including wireless accessories according to various specific implementations.

[0020] Figure 3 These are examples of processing flows for wireless accessory notifications based on various specific implementations.

[0021] Figure 4 It depends on various specific implementations. Figure 3 A further example of the processing flow.

[0022] Figure 5 Examples of power usage of wireless accessories during notifications are depicted, depending on various specific implementations.

[0023] Figure 6 These are exemplary technologies related to wireless accessory notifications based on various specific implementations.

[0024] Figure 7 These are alternative exemplary technologies related to wireless accessory notifications according to various specific implementations.

[0025] Figure 8 These are alternative exemplary technologies related to wireless accessory notifications according to various specific implementations.

[0026] Figure 9 These are exemplary block diagrams based on various specific implementations of wireless accessory architectures. Detailed Implementation

[0027] As noted above, when a wireless accessory is in active use (e.g., powered on and being used by a user of the wireless accessory and / or wireless device), the wireless accessory (e.g., wireless earbuds, headphones, headsets, etc.) can periodically transmit status notifications to its paired wireless device (e.g., PDA, mobile phone, tablet, etc.). These status notifications allow the user to locate the wireless accessory or monitor its status, such as the battery status of the wireless accessory. For example, if the user has a mobile device communicatively coupled to the wireless accessory, the user may be able to use the mobile device to locate, control, or monitor the wireless accessory based on the status notifications, either by receiving the status notifications from the mobile device or by receiving status notifications from a different mobile device that can subsequently forward the received information to the user's mobile device.

[0028] However, in some implementations, wireless accessories cannot be configured to transmit such notifications under certain circumstances. For example, earbuds, when located inside a charging case with a closed lid, may sometimes not be configured to transmit status notifications. For instance, if the earbuds are in low power or sleep mode, they may not transmit status notifications.

[0029] The specific implementations of this paper address the aforementioned situation. Specifically, these implementations relate to status notifications that can be provided by one or more wireless accessories, such as earbuds, when the wireless accessory is located in a closed case, for example, when the wireless accessory is not in active use. This type of technology may be referred to herein as "in-case notification" technology. Additionally, in some implementations, the status notification may include information related to both earbuds in a pair. In some implementations, the information for each earbud may be different.

[0030] In some implementations, if the wireless accessory consists of two physically separate parts, such as two earbuds, each earbud may sometimes be located in a different position from the other. In these implementations, it may be desirable for status notifications to include information related to both earbuds. The information for one earbud may differ from that for the other earbud, for example, because the earbuds are located in different physical positions.

[0031] Figure 1 Examples of wireless systems including wireless accessories according to various specific implementations. System 100 includes wireless device 105; wireless accessory devices 110a and 110b, collectively referred to as wireless accessory device 110; and a box 115 for wireless accessory device 110.

[0032] Wireless accessory device 110 may be a device configured to communicate directly or indirectly (e.g., via another device or computer) with a wireless device such as wireless device 105 via a wireless network or peer-to-peer communication link. Examples of wireless accessory devices include, but are not limited to, wireless earbuds, binoculars, headphones, and other wearable devices such as smartwatches, fitness trackers, optical head-mounted displays, game controllers, remote controls, and smartphones. In some implementations, according to, for example, wireless technology standards such as Bluetooth... TM The wireless accessory device 110 can be "paired" with the wireless device 105. It can be seen that the wireless accessory device 110 may include two separate physical components, such as 110a and 110b, for example, a left earbud and a right earbud. In some specific embodiments, the wireless accessory device 110 may include more or fewer physical components. For example, the wireless accessory device may include one physical component or three or more physical components.

[0033] Some examples of wireless networks include wireless local area networks (WLANs), such as the Internet and wireless personal area networks (WPANs). Some examples of communication technologies include any suitable IEEE 802.xx technologies, including but not limited to Wi-Fi, ultra-wideband, and Bluetooth. TM .

[0034] Wireless device 105 may be an electronic device capable of communicating with wireless accessory device 110, such as a device including a wireless transceiver chip. Wireless device 105 includes at least one microphone or other sound transducer; a display or other output device, such as an audio output device, for assisting the user in locating the wireless accessory device; or both. Some examples of wireless device 105 include, but are not limited to: smartphones, tablet computers, laptop computers, wearable computers such as smartwatches, etc.

[0035] As can be seen, the box 115 may include a box body 115b, a box cover 115a, and a cavity 115c therein for housing the wireless accessory device 110. Specifically, the box body 115b may include one or more processors, storage media, user interactive elements (e.g., buttons or user signals such as lights), etc.

[0036] The housing body 115b may further include one or more contacts within the cavity 115c. In some embodiments, wireless accessory devices 110 may be placed within the cavity 115c such that they are physically coupled to the contacts. The contacts may supply power to one or both of the wireless accessory devices 110a and 110b, for example, for recharging. In some embodiments, the housing body 115b may be configured for other charging technologies, such as inductive charging. In some embodiments, the housing 115 may be configured to not charge the wireless accessory device 110 until the cover 115a of the housing 115 is closed and the wireless accessory device 110 is located within the cavity 115c.

[0037] Figure 2 This is an exemplary block diagram of a wireless system 200 including wireless accessories according to various specific implementations. Specifically, in Figure 2 In the other figures herein, the wireless accessory is depicted and discussed as wireless earbud 210, which may resemble one or both of wireless accessories 110a and 110b. However, it should be understood that the concepts herein are applicable to other specific embodiments in which the wireless accessory is a headset, a binaural headset, or some other type of wireless accessory.

[0038] Wireless earbuds 210, such as binaural headphones positioned directly in a user's ear, may include a processor 240, a physical port 235, user input / output (I / O) 225, and wireless I / O 230 (e.g., such as Bluetooth). TMThe transceiver includes a wireless transceiver, a memory 245, a speaker 250, a battery 255, and one or more sensors 260.

[0039] Processor 240 may be a processor such as a central processing unit (CPU), a general-purpose processing unit (GPU), one or more processor cores, an integrated circuit (IC), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or some other type of logic or controller operable to control the operation of wireless earbud 210.

[0040] Port 235 can be a physical or wired connection that allows physical coupling and exchange of electrical signals between the wireless earbud 210 and the corresponding port 203 in or above the charging case 215 when the wireless earbud 210 is physically coupled to the case 215, for example, when the wireless earbud is positioned in cavity 115c and cover 115a is closed. In specific implementations, port 235 can be used to charge the wireless earbud 210; exchange data with the case 215; or both. For example, some implementations of port 235 may allow data exchange between the processor 240 of the wireless earbud 210 and the processor 218 of the case 215. In some implementations, port 235 may be coupled to the battery 255 of the wireless earbud 210 and configured to receive power from the case 215, which can then be supplied to the battery 255. The battery 255 may be, for example, a lithium-ion battery or some other type of battery.

[0041] The wireless I / O 230 (which may also be referred to as a wireless transceiver) can be configured to support or facilitate short-range wireless communication (e.g., Bluetooth) between the wireless earbuds 210 and a wireless device such as the wireless device 105. TM (or some other short-range communication protocol). Once a channel for wireless communication has been established between the two, the wireless I / O or transceiver 230 enables the wireless earbud 210 to communicate wirelessly with the box 215.

[0042] The memory 245 may store firmware for operating the wireless earbud 210, as well as data for coupling with other wireless earbuds and for pairing the wireless earbud 210 with wireless mobile devices. The memory 245 may be, for example, non-volatile memory (NVM), flash memory, or some other type or kind of memory.

[0043] In some embodiments, the wireless earbud 210 may further include one or more speakers 250 configured to produce sound. Specifically, the speaker 250 may be configured to play audio, such as music, podcasts, voice communications, or other types of audio. In some embodiments, the earbud 210 may include a single speaker 250, while in other embodiments, the earbud 210 may include various speakers tuned to different frequencies (e.g., mid-range speakers, high-range speakers, and low-frequency range speakers).

[0044] The wireless earbud 210 may further include user I / O 225. User I / O 225 may include one or more elements for user input, such as buttons, switches, knobs, etc. User I / O 225 may further include one or more user output elements, such as light, haptic feedback, or some other type of output element.

[0045] The wireless earbud 210 may further include one or more sensors 260, such as accelerometers or in-ear sensors, which are configured to identify the position, orientation, or movement of the wireless earbud 210.

[0046] The wireless system 200 may further include a box 215, which may be similar to Figure 1 Box 115. In other embodiments, box 215 may be a plug-in station or some other type of accessory or electronic device. Box 215 may include port 203, battery 204, processor 218, user I / O 205, and memory 220, which may be similar to port 235, battery 255, processor 240, user I / O 225, and memory 245, respectively.

[0047] Figure 3 These are examples of processing flows for wireless accessory notifications according to various specific implementations. Specifically, the processing flow describes communication between a box 315 and an earphone 310, which may resemble box 115 or 215 and wireless accessory 110a or wireless earphone 210, respectively. Communication may be performed by signals transmitted, for example, between ports 203 and 235. Communication may facilitate in-box notifications from earphone 310.

[0048] When earbud 310 is placed in and recognized by case 315, the processing flow begins at 303. For example, earbud 310 may be placed in one cavity of cavity 115c. In some embodiments, earbud 310 may be coupled to case 315 in an alternative manner. Case 315 may identify earbud 310 for in-case notification technology based on several factors. For example, earbud 310 may be identified based on the order in which it is placed in case 315, such as always selecting the first or last earbud 310 to be placed in case 315. In some embodiments, earbud 310 may be identified based on which earbud in the earbud pair previously participated in in-case notification technology, such as selecting the "right" earbud if the "left" earbud previously performed in-case notification, or vice versa. In some embodiments, earbud 310 may be identified separately based on the power levels of the two earbuds in a pair, such as selecting the earbud with the highest power. Other criteria may exist in other embodiments.

[0049] Then start the sleep timer at 305. Specifically, as follows: Figure 3 As shown, the sleep timer can be initiated by a processor such as processor 240 of wireless earbud 310. Generally, a sleep timer can be a timer that indicates how long the earbud 310 should remain in a wake-up state within the housing 315 before entering a sleep operating state. The sleep operating state can be defined by characteristics such as reduced power consumption, extended time between processor activities, reduced signaling, or a combination of these. It should be noted that although the sleep timer initiated at 305 is depicted as an activity of earbud 310, in some specific implementations, the sleep timer may additionally or alternatively be operated, monitored, or maintained by the housing 315, for example, by a processor such as processor 218.

[0050] Then, the box 315 may transmit a notification support query at 306. Specifically, the notification support query may be a message querying whether the earbud 310 supports the in-box notification technology as described herein. The earbud 310 may respond with a notification support response 309, which includes a bit indicating that the earbud 310 supports the notification technology described herein (e.g., in-box notification technology) or some other indicator.

[0051] After the earbud 310 is confirmed by the box to support in-box notification technology, the box 315 may start a total duration timer at 312. The total duration timer may be a timer that indicates the total duration of in-box notification technology before instructing the earbud 310 not to perform further notifications. In some implementations, the total duration timer may have a duration between approximately sixteen hours and six months, specifically between sixteen hours and twenty-four hours, and more specifically twenty-four hours.

[0052] Then, the box 315 may send a time query to the earpiece 310 at 316. The time query may be, for example, a query to coordinate the internal clocks of both the box 315 and the earpiece 310, for example, by comparing the two clocks with Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) or some other time. In some embodiments, the time query may include an indication of the box 315's internal clock. In some embodiments, the time query may include a request to the earpiece 310 to provide an indication of its internal clock. In response, the earpiece 310 provides a time response at 318 that confirms the information provided by the box 315 and / or includes an indication of the earpiece 310's internal clock.

[0053] The lid of the case 315 (e.g., lid 115a) can be closed, which activates a power reduction program for the earbuds 310. This power reduction program can be a program that changes the operation of the earbuds 310 to a reduced power operating state. In this reduced power operating state, the earbuds 310 can, for example, use less power, recharge the battery of the earbuds 310 from the case's battery, or a combination of these.

[0054] Specifically, when the cover is closed at 321, the housing 315 can transmit a radio disable command to the earbud 310 at 324. The radio disable command can be a command to reduce the power of the earbud 310, turn it off, or otherwise stop the operation of the earbud's internal radio, such as wireless I / O 230. The earbud 310 can respond with a radio disable response 327, which can include, for example, acknowledging the radio disable command at 324. The earbud's radio is then disabled at 330.

[0055] The box can then transmit a reboot command to the earbud 310 at 333. The reboot command could be a command that causes the earbud 310 to reboot itself at 336, for example, via a power cycle. Such a reboot could, for example, clear various temporary data of the earbud (e.g., some encryption keys), clear the earbud's cache, or both.

[0056] Then, the wireless system can begin the notification loop at 339. Generally speaking, the notification loop at 339 can be the loop in which the earbud 310 executes the notification within the box.

[0057] The case 315 and / or earbud 310 may additionally activate an interval timer. Generally, it may be expected that in-case notifications will occur periodically according to a predictable schedule. An interval timer can refer to a timer that indicates how often an in-case notification should occur. In some implementations, the interval timer may be, for example, about one minute; however, it should be understood that in other implementations, the interval timer may be longer or shorter, depending on factors such as battery life and specific usage conditions.

[0058] Initially, the notification loop could include sleeping for a specific time at point 342. For example... Figure 3 The specific time described is the difference between the interval timer discussed above and the notification duration timer. The notification duration timer can refer to a timer that monitors how long a status notification should occur. In some implementations, the notification duration timer may be approximately three seconds long, while in other implementations, the notification duration may be longer or shorter, again depending on factors such as battery life and specific usage conditions. In some implementations, hibernation may further consider the time required for the notification enabling procedure described in more detail below at 345 and 348, the notification disabling procedure described in 357 and 360, or both.

[0059] Upon termination of sleep mode, the housing 315 may send a notification enable command at 345. The notification enable command may be, for example, a one-second long power pulse transmitted to the earbud 310. In some implementations, the notification enable command may be a setting bit or some other command in a message provided by the housing 315 to the earbud 310. The earbud 310 may recognize the notification enable command and send a notification enable response 348, which acknowledges receipt of the command at 345.

[0060] Based on the notification enable command 354, the earbud 310 can transmit a status notification at 354. The status notification may include information such as the location of the earbud 310, the identifier of the earbud 310, the power level of the earbud 310, some other status indicators of the earbud 310, or a combination of two or more of these.

[0061] In some implementations, when earbud 310 transmits a status notification at 354, an accompanying device (e.g., a wireless device such as a smartphone or smartwatch) may transmit information about earbud 310. For example, the accompanying device may transmit data indicating the location of earbud 310, some other status indicator of earbud 310, or both. The accompanying device may also transmit data not included in the status notification.

[0062] The notification occurs substantially simultaneously with the notification at location 354, and the housing 315 can monitor the notification duration timer at location 351. As noted above, the notification duration timer at location 351 can be approximately three seconds long. It should be understood that in some specific embodiments not shown, the earpiece 310 may additionally or alternatively monitor the notification duration timer.

[0063] After the notification duration timer at 351 expires, the box 315 may send a notification disable command at 357. This notification disable command may include an instruction from the earbud 310 to stop notifications, based on a specific power level, specific location, or some other indication. Based on the command at 357, the earbud 310 may transmit a notification disable response at 360, which acknowledges the disable command at 357.

[0064] The processing flow then loops back to element 339 at 363 until the sleep timer started at 305 expires. In some implementations, the earpiece used to transmit status notifications at 354 can be switched when the processing flow loops back to 339 at 363, while in other implementations, the same earpiece can be used for two or more consecutive loops.

[0065] After the sleep timer expires, earbud 310 may enter a sleep operation state at 366. In the sleep operation state, one or more processes or elements of earbud 310 may be further reduced in power to consume less power, for example, by shutting down, monitoring signals at longer periodic intervals, or both. The process may then continue at 369. Figure 4 .

[0066] In some implementations, a wireless device, such as wireless device 105, may send a signal to earbud 310 while earbud 310 is transmitting a notification signal. This may occur when the wireless device attempts to determine the location of earbud 310, send audio content to earbud 310, or both.

[0067] When earbud 310 receives a signal from a wireless device, for example, when earbud 310 is transmitting a notification signal, earbud 310 may transmit a signal to charging case 315 instructing the charging case to wait for a disable command to be sent to earbud 310. For example, earbud 310 may monitor signals from, for example, a connection to a device. This monitoring may occur when earbud 310 is transmitting a notification signal. In response to determining that the earbud has received a connection to a wireless device, earbud 310 may send a wait command to charging case 315 to cause charging case 315 to wait for a disable command to be sent to earbud 310.

[0068] When the connection with the wireless device is terminated, the earbud 310 may send a stop-wait command to the charging case 315 after a predetermined period of time or at another appropriate time. Receiving the stop-wait command allows the charging case 315 to resume its previous operation, such as resuming any timer that was paused based on the received wait command. This allows the wireless device to determine the location of the earbud 310, such as its approximate location, when the required time exceeds the time normally allowed by the charging case 315, for example, when the user of the wireless device needs to find the earbud 310 and the wireless device is only providing directional information to the user to determine the location of the earbud 310.

[0069] Figure 4 It depends on various specific implementations. Figure 3 A further example of the processing flow. Specifically, Figure 4 It describes that once the earbuds enter a sleep state at point 366, it can be considered as... Figure 3The processing flow is a continuation of the processing flow.

[0070] The combination of box 415 and earbud 410 is depicted Figure 4 They can be similar to Figure 3 The case 315 and earbud 310. The processing flow can begin at 403 to signal the start of the loop, and then sleep at 406, which can be similar to... Figure 3 Elements 339 and 342.

[0071] After the sleep state at 406, the housing 415 can transmit a wake-up command to the earbud 410 at 409. The wake-up command at 409 can be a command that causes the earbud 410 to exit the sleep state and enter the wake-up state. The wake-up state can be an operating state in which the earbud 410 is configured to transmit, receive, monitor, or a combination of one or more wireless signals, such as status notifications. The housing 415 can then wait at 412 for the duration of the earbud 410 wake-up procedure, while the earbud enters the wake-up state at 414.

[0072] Then, the processing flow may include, for example Figure 4 The elements 416, 418, 421, 424, 427, and 430 described are analogous to elements 345, 348, 351, 354, 357, and 360 discussed above, respectively. To avoid redundancy in this discussion, these elements will not be described further.

[0073] After the notifications at 427 and 430 are disabled, the box 415 can send a sleep command to the earbud at 410, which is acknowledged in the response at 436. The sleep command can be a command that puts the earbud into a sleep operating state at 439, similar to element 366 as described above.

[0074] The processing flow can then return to element 412 until the total duration timer, which started at element 312, expires at 445. Once the total duration timer expires at 445, the housing 415 can also enter sleep operation state 448, and the earbuds are instructed not to continue periodic status notifications. In this way, the housing 415 and / or the earbuds 410 will not deplete their respective batteries or undergo unnecessary power cycling due to status notifications.

[0075] It should be understood that Figure 3 and Figure 4 The description is intended as an example, and other specific implementations may vary. For example, certain elements may occur in a different order than those depicted (e.g., in reverse or simultaneously). In some specific implementations, elements described as being transmitted or initiated by the housing 315 / 415 may be initiated by the earpiece 310 / 410 and confirmed by the housing, or vice versa.

[0076] In some specific implementations, the timers, such as interval timers, notification duration timers, total duration timers, and sleep timers, may be started at different points than those described in the processing flow, or may be different from the timers mentioned above. For example, "Notification Activation Command 345" may be a combination of the following... Figure 5 The aforementioned one-second long pulse. Therefore, in this specific implementation, the sleep state at 342 can be the difference between the interval timer and [notification duration timer + one second]. In some specific implementations, this additional one-second time interval can be incorporated into the interval timer or notification duration timer, or otherwise become part of it. Similarly, the timer can be modified to account for the wake-up command at 409. Generally speaking, it should be understood that the exact organization of the processing flow may differ in different specific implementations, and Figure 3 and Figure 4 The examples provided are intended as high-level illustrations of the concepts described herein. Other variations may exist in other specific implementations.

[0077] Figure 5 Examples of power usage by wireless accessories (e.g., earbuds such as earbuds 310 or 410) during notification cycles are depicted according to various specific implementations. Specifically, Figure 5 The X-axis depicts time, and the Y-axis depicts power level. It should be understood that... Figure 5 This is for discussion purposes only and is not intended to be drawn to scale.

[0078] For the purposes of this discussion, assume the notification loop cycles once per minute. That is, the interval timer is one minute long. Similarly, assume the status notification from the earpiece lasts approximately three seconds. That is, the notification duration timer is three seconds long.

[0079] like Figure 5 As can be seen, the earbuds can be at a relatively low power level at position 505. For example, the earbuds may consume approximately 30 microwatts (μW) of power from the case. This power consumption may be for the purpose of maintaining or recharging the earbuds' battery. Generally, this phase can be consistent with the sleep state described at positions 342 and 406, lasting approximately 56 seconds or both.

[0080] The housing can then provide a notification enable command as described at 345 or 416 at 510. Generally, the command may take the form of a relatively high-power pulse supplied from the housing 315 / 415 to the earbuds 310 / 410. In some embodiments, the command at 510 may last for approximately one second and have a power of approximately 25 milliwatts (mW), or both; however, in other embodiments, the duration and / or power of the command may be greater than or less than said duration and / or power. Earbud charging may be disabled during the wake-up enable command at 510.

[0081] Then, earbuds 310 / 410 can perform a status notification at 515 as described at 354 or 424. The notification lasts for approximately 3 seconds, for example, the duration of a notification duration timer. In some implementations, the notification may be a single transmission. In some implementations, the notification may be a repeated, periodic transmission over a predetermined interval, such as three seconds. After the status notification at 515, the process can then loop as described above in conjunction with elements 363 or 445.

[0082] As noted above, in some embodiments, status notifications can only be transmitted by a single earbud in one or more sets, such as a pair of earbuds. However, two earbuds in a group of two or more sets, such as a pair of earbuds, may have different states than each other. For example, in some embodiments, one earbud (e.g., wireless accessory 110a) may be in a case (e.g., case 115), while the other earbud (e.g., wireless accessory 110b) may not be in a case. In some embodiments, the earbuds may be communicatively coupled to each other. In some embodiments, the earbuds may not be communicatively coupled to each other. In some embodiments, the lid of the case (e.g., lid 115a) may be open. In some embodiments, the lid may be closed.

[0083] It may be desirable for the status notification to indicate one or more changes in the above-described situations. Table 1 below describes examples of information that may be included in the status notification. In this example, the status notification may be represented by two bits. In this example, it may be assumed that the status notification is being transmitted by the left earbud. The first bit (bit-0) may include information related to the right earbud. The second bit (bit-1) may include information related to the status of the transmission, for example, the left earbud. Specifically, bit-1 may include information related to whether the transmission earbud is in the case.

[0084] It should be understood that Table 1 below is intended to show how different bits can be set in different scenarios. However, Table 1 is not intended to show the relative positions of bits during transmission. In other words, during transmission, bit -0 may appear before bit -1, or vice versa. In some specific implementations, the relative positions of bits 0 and 1 may be based on factors such as which earpiece is transmitting a status notification.

[0085]

[0086]

[0087] Figure 6 These are exemplary technologies related to wireless accessory notifications according to various specific implementations. Specifically, the technology is one that can be executed by a wireless accessory such as wireless earbuds 210 / 310 / 410 (and more specifically, the processor 240 of wireless earbud 210).

[0088] The technology may include identifying, at 605, an enable command received from a charging case, such as case 215. The enable command may be, for example, a notification enable command discussed in conjunction with elements 345 or 416. The technology also includes transmitting a notification signal at 610 based on the enable command, the notification signal including information related to the identification of the earbud. The notification signal may be, for example, a status notification discussed above in conjunction with elements 354 or 424 or in Table 1.

[0089] Figure 7 This is an alternative exemplary technology related to wireless accessory notification according to various specific implementations. Specifically, this technology is one that can be executed by a box such as box 215 / 315 / 415 (and more specifically, processor 218 of box 215).

[0090] This technique may include identifying that an interval timer has expired at 705. The interval timer may be a combination of the above, such as element 342 or 406, or... Figure 5 The interval timer is described above. The technology may further include identifying one or more earbuds, such as a pair of earbuds, at 710. As indicated by element 303, earbud identification may be based on one or more factors, such as the corresponding power level of the earbud, which earbud was first placed in the case, which earbud was last used to transmit status notifications, etc. The technology may further include transmitting an enable command to the identified earbud at 715 based on the interval timer. Specifically, the enable command may be a notification enable command as described in elements 345 or 416, and may be configured to cause the earbud to transmit a notification signal related to earbud identification.

[0091] In some implementations, the box may accommodate two earbuds that are not communicatively coupled. The coupled earbuds may be those that are sold as a set, typically play audio together, can communicate directly with each other (e.g., without the need for another device to assist communication), or a combination of two or more of these. This can occur when two people with similar pairs of earbuds accidentally pull one earbud from each of the two pairs.

[0092] In these specific implementations, the technology may further include determining that the first earbud and the second earbud are not coupled. The case may perform this determination when both earbuds are placed inside the case, or at any other suitable time. At least in part in response to determining that the first earbud and the second earbud are not coupled, the case may transmit a similar enable command to the other earbud. For example, the case may transmit a second enable command to the second earbud to cause the second earbud to transmit a second notification signal associated with a second identification of the second earbud. The second enable command may be the same command as the enable command sent to the first earbud.

[0093] Figure 8This is another exemplary technology related to wireless accessory notification according to various specific implementations. Specifically, this technology is one that can be executed by a wireless accessory such as wireless earbuds 210 / 310 / 410 (and more specifically, the processor 240 of wireless earbud 210).

[0094] The technology includes recognizing an enable command received from the charging case (e.g., charging case 215, 315, or 415) at 805. The enable command may be, for example, a notification enable command discussed in conjunction with elements 345 or 416. The technology also includes transmitting a notification signal at 810 based on the enable command, the notification signal including information related to the status of one earbud, the status of the other earbud, or both. The notification signal may be, for example, a status notification discussed above in conjunction with elements 354 or 424 or in Table 1.

[0095] In some implementations, a notification signal may indicate whether an earbud is still coupled to another earbud. For example, the two earbuds may no longer be coupled if: the other earbud is out of power, for example, its battery is depleted; the other earbud is more than a threshold distance away from the other earbud; or a combination of these.

[0096] The earbud can determine some or all of the information relating to the state of the earbud itself, the state of another earbud, or both. For example, when one earbud is not coupled to another earbud, the earbud can determine whether it is coupled to the other earbud. The earbud can determine the state of the other earbud by indicative of whether it is coupled to it. For example, the earbud can determine information relating to the state of the other earbud that indicates that when the earbud is not coupled to the other earbud, the other earbud is not in the charging case containing that earbud.

[0097] It should be understood that Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The exemplary techniques described herein are intended as advanced exemplary techniques. Other embodiments may have more or fewer elements, or the order of elements may differ from the order depicted. Other variations may exist in other embodiments.

[0098] Figure 9 It depends on the specific wireless accessory device architecture implemented. Generally speaking, Figure 9 It can be wireless earbuds, and is designed to supplement... Figure 2 The description of the 210 wireless earbuds. In other words, the architecture 900 can be... Figure 2 The wireless earbud 210, or its components.

[0099] Architecture 900 includes a memory interface 901, a processor 902 (which may be similar to processor 240), a peripheral interface 903, a memory 904 (which may be similar to memory 245), one or more inertial sensors 905, an in-ear detector (IED) 906, a wireless communication subsystem 907 (which may be similar to wireless I / O 230), an audio subsystem 908, one or more speakers 909 (which may be similar to speaker 250), one or more microphones 910, and an input / output (I / O) subsystem 911 (which may be similar to user I / O 225). Inertial sensors 905 and IED 906 may be similar to sensor 260. The memory also includes instructions 912 and sound files 913. The memory interface 901, processor 902, and / or peripheral interface 903 may be separate components or may be integrated into one or more integrated circuits. Other accessory devices, such as smartwatches, may include on-wrist detectors (OWD) (e.g., using optical or proximity sensors) instead of IEDs. One or more communication buses or signal lines may couple various components.

[0100] Sensors, devices, and subsystems can be coupled to the peripheral interface 903 to facilitate multiple functions. For example, inertial sensors 905 and IED 906 can be coupled to the peripheral interface 903 to facilitate the orientation and proximity functions of the accessory device. In some implementations, the inertial sensor 905 (e.g., an accelerometer, rate gyroscope) can be used to detect the movement and orientation of the accessory device. For example, if the accessory device is an earbud, binaural headset, or headset, a multi-axis accelerometer can be used to identify head posture. Additionally, the accelerometer can be configured to detect vibrations caused by user input (e.g., tapping the accessory device) to activate or deactivate the accessory device or perform another function. Other sensors, such as magnetometers, temperature sensors, barometers, or biometric sensors, can also be coupled to the peripheral interface 903 to facilitate related functions. For example, a biometric sensor can be used to verify and / or monitor heart rate and / or other fitness parameters. IED 906 may include optical sensors, proximity switches, biometric sensors, or any other suitable sensors for detecting when the accessory device is placed in or near the user's ear.

[0101] Communication functions can be facilitated through the wireless communication subsystem 907. The wireless communication subsystem 907 may include a radio frequency (RF) transceiver for use with, as referenced... Figures 1 to 8The mobile device or another earpiece performs short-range, peer-to-peer communication. The specific design and implementation of the wireless communication subsystem 907 may depend on the communication network or medium through which the device intends to operate. For example, the wireless communication subsystem 907 may facilitate communication via Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) networks, GPRS networks, Enhanced Data GSM Environment (EDGE) networks, IEEE 802.xx communication networks (e.g., Wi-Fi, Wi-Max, ZigBee). TM ), 3G, 4G, 4G LTE, Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) networks, Near Field Communication (NFC), Wi-Fi Direct, and Bluetooth TM Network communication. The wireless communication subsystem 907 may include a software stack for implementing wireless communication protocols.

[0102] The audio subsystem 908 may be coupled to one or more speakers 909 and one or more microphones 911 to facilitate voice-enabled functions such as voice recognition, voice copying, digital recording, and telephone functions, and perform functions as described in the reference. Figures 1 to 8 The process or enabling feature described.

[0103] I / O subsystem 911 may include a touch controller and / or another input controller. The touch controller may be coupled to a touch surface. The touch surface and touch controller may use, for example, any of a variety of touch-sensitive technologies to detect contact and movement or their interruption, including but not limited to capacitive, resistive, infrared, and surface acoustic wave technologies, as well as other proximity sensor arrays or other elements for determining one or more points of contact with the touch surface. The other input controller may be coupled to other input / control devices, such as one or more buttons, rocker switches, or thumbwheels. One or more buttons may include volume up / down buttons for volume control of speaker 909 and / or microphone 911. In some embodiments, the accessory device may play recorded audio files (e.g., sound files or audio messages), such as MP3, AAC, and MPEG video files. In some embodiments, the accessory device may include the functionality of an audio player (e.g., an MP3 player).

[0104] Memory interface 901 can be coupled to memory 904. Memory 904 may include high-speed random access memory or non-volatile memory, such as one or more disk storage devices, one or more optical storage devices, or flash memory (such as NAND, NOR). Memory 904 may store instructions 912 and sound files 913. Instructions may include operating system instructions for processing basic system services and for performing hardware-related tasks. Instructions 912 may facilitate communication with one or more additional devices, one or more computers, or servers, including communication with [reference to...]. Figures 1 to 8Peer-to-peer communication with the mobile device, box, or another earpiece. Instruction 912 facilitates graphical user interface (GUI) processing, inertial sensor processing, and IED processing. Instruction 912 can respond to signals or commands from the accessory device to play sound file 913, wherein the loudness level is increased to the maximum loudness but not exceeding the maximum loudness permitted by government regulations. Memory 904 may include additional instructions or fewer instructions. Various functions of the accessory device may be implemented in hardware and / or software, including in one or more signal processing and / or ASICs.

[0105] The features may be implemented in digital electronic circuits, or in computer hardware, firmware, software, or a combination thereof. The features may be implemented in a computer program product tangibly embodied in an information carrier (e.g., in a machine-readable storage device) for execution by a programmable processor; and the method steps may be executed by a programmable processor that executes an instruction program to perform the functions of the specific implementation by manipulating input data and generating output.

[0106] The described features can be advantageously implemented in one or more computer programs that can be executed on a programmable system, the programmable system including at least one input device, at least one output device, and at least one programmable processor coupled to receive data and instructions from and transfer data and instructions to the data storage system. A computer program is a set of instructions that can be used directly or indirectly in a computer to perform an activity or produce a result. Computer programs can be written in any form of programming language (e.g., Objective-C, Java), including compiled and interpreted languages, and can be deployed in any form, including as a standalone program or as a module, component, subroutine, or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment.

[0107] For example, suitable processors for executing programs include both general-purpose microprocessors and special-purpose microprocessors, as well as one or a single processor among multiple processors or cores in any type of computer. Generally, the processor receives instructions and data from read-only memory or random access memory, or both. The basic components of a computer are the processor for executing instructions and one or more memories for storing instructions and data. Generally, computers can communicate with mass storage devices to store data files. These mass storage devices can include disks, such as internal hard disks and removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and optical disks. Storage devices suitable for tangibly embodying computer program instructions and data include: all forms of non-volatile memory, including semiconductor memory devices such as EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices; disks, such as internal hard disks and removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM discs. Processors and memory can be supplemented by ASICs or incorporated into ASICs. To provide interaction with the user, these features can be implemented on a computer having a display device for displaying information to the author, a keyboard that the author can use to provide input to the computer, and a pointing device, such as a CRT (cathode ray tube), LED (light emission diode), or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor or display device, and such as a mouse or trackball.

[0108] The term “coupled” and its derivatives may be used herein. “Coupled” can refer to one or more of the following: “Coupled” can mean two or more elements in direct physical or electrical contact. However, “coupled” can also mean two or more elements in indirect contact with each other, but still cooperating or interacting with each other, and can mean one or more other elements coupled or connected between the elements referred to as being coupled to each other. The term “directly coupled” can mean two or more elements in direct contact.

[0109] The various operations can be described in the most helpful way to understand the claimed subject matter as a series of discrete operations. However, the order of description should not be interpreted as implying that these operations necessarily depend on the order.

[0110] Unless otherwise expressly stated, any of the examples above may be combined with any other example (or combination of examples). The foregoing description of one or more specific embodiments provides illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of the embodiments to the precise form disclosed. In view of the teachings above, modifications and variations are possible, or can be derived from the practice of various specific embodiments.

[0111] While the specific embodiments described above have been described in considerable detail, many variations and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art once the disclosure is fully understood. This disclosure is intended to render the following claims as encompassing all such variations and modifications.

[0112] As is widely recognized, the use of personally identifiable information should comply with privacy policies and practices that are generally accepted to meet or exceed industry or governmental requirements for protecting user privacy. Specifically, personally identifiable information data should be managed and processed to minimize the risk of unintentional or unauthorized access or use, and the nature of authorized use should be clearly explained to users.

Claims

1. A method for a processor of a wireless device, the method comprising: The processor of the wireless device recognizes an enable command received from the charging case, wherein the wireless device: a) is communicatively coupled to the charging case and b) disables the transmission of one or more notification signals, the enable command indicating that the one or more notification signals should be enabled; as well as The processor transmits a wireless notification signal based on the enable command, wherein the wireless notification signal includes information related to the identification of the wireless device.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: The processor determines that it has received a connection with the second wireless device; as well as At least in part in response to determining that the processor has received the connection with the second wireless device, the processor transmits a wait command to the charging case to cause the charging case to wait for the processor of the wireless device to send a disable command.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein determining that the processor has received the connection with the second wireless device comprises: The processor determines that it has received the connection with the second wireless device while it is transmitting the wireless notification signal.

4. The method of claim 1, further comprising the processor identifying a power signal received from the charging case, wherein the reception of the power signal and the transmission of the wireless notification signal occur substantially simultaneously.

5. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: The processor recognizes the disable command received from the charging case; as well as The processor stops the transmission of the wireless notification signal based on the disable command.

6. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Prior to recognizing the enable command, the processor recognizes the wake-up command received from the charging case; as well as The processor enters a wake-up operation state based on the wake-up command, wherein the wake-up operation state enables the processor to monitor the enable command.

7. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: After transmitting the wireless notification signal, the processor identifies the sleep command received from the charging case; as well as The processor enters a sleep operation state based on the sleep command, wherein the sleep operation state causes the processor to skip monitoring the enable command.

8. A method for a processor in a charging case, the method comprising: The processor of the charging box, which is communicatively coupled to one or more wireless devices, identifies that the interval timer has expired; The processor identifies a first wireless device from the one or more wireless devices that disables the transmission of one or more notification signals; as well as The processor transmits an enable command to the first wireless device based on the recognition that the interval timer has expired. The enable command indicates that one or more notification signals should be enabled, and when received by the first wireless device, causes the first wireless device to transmit a wireless notification signal related to the identification of the first wireless device.

9. The method according to claim 8, further comprising: The processor identifies that the notification duration timer has expired; as well as At least in part in response to determining that the notification duration timer has expired, the processor transmits a disable command to the first wireless device to cause the first wireless device to stop transmitting the wireless notification signal.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising: The processor identifies that the total duration timer has expired; as well as At least in part, in response to recognizing that the total duration has elapsed, the processor stops the interval timer and the total duration timer.

11. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The one or more wireless devices include two or more wireless devices, and the two or more wireless devices include the first wireless device and the second wireless device. The method further includes: The processor determines that the first wireless device and the second wireless device are not coupled; and At least in part in response to determining that the first wireless device and the second wireless device are not coupled, the processor transmits a second enable command to the second wireless device to cause the second wireless device to transmit a second wireless notification signal related to a second identification of the second wireless device.

12. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The one or more wireless devices include two or more wireless devices; and Identifying the first wireless device includes the processor identifying the power level of the corresponding wireless device among the two or more wireless devices.

13. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The one or more wireless devices include two or more wireless devices; and Identifying the first wireless device includes the processor identifying that the first wireless device is coupled to the charging case while another of the two or more wireless devices is not coupled to the charging case.

14. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The one or more wireless devices include two or more wireless devices; and Identifying the first wireless device includes the processor identifying which of the two or more wireless devices transmitted the previous wireless notification signal.

15. A method of processing a wireless device, the method comprising: The processor of the wireless device recognizes an enable command received from the charging case, wherein the wireless device: a) is communicatively coupled to the charging case and b) disables the transmission of one or more notification signals, the enable command indicating that the one or more notification signals should be enabled, wherein the wireless device belongs to a pair of wireless devices including the wireless device and another wireless device; and The processor transmits a wireless notification signal in response to recognizing the enable command, wherein the wireless notification signal includes information related to the status of the wireless device and the status of the other wireless device.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the wireless notification signal comprises a first portion relating to the state of the wireless device and a second portion relating to the state of the other wireless device.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein the information associated with the state of the wireless device includes information related to whether the wireless device is coupled to the other wireless device.

18. The method of claim 15, wherein the information associated with the state of the wireless device includes information related to whether the wireless device is coupled to the charging case.

19. The method of claim 15, wherein the information associated with the state of the other wireless device includes information associated with the identification of the other wireless device.

20. The method of claim 15, wherein the information relating to the state of the wireless device or the state of the other wireless device includes an indication of whether the wireless device and the other wireless device are wirelessly coupled to each other.

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