Audio control method and device

Abstract

The invention provides an audio control method and device, relates to the technical field of wireless communication, and aims to provide a scheme for managing audio data of a plurality of communication devices by an audio output device. After an audio output device establishes a first audio channel with a first communication device, the audio output device sends first information to a second communication device, and the first information is used for indicating that the second communication device does not establish a second audio channel with the audio output device. Under the condition that the audio output device establishes the first audio channel with the first communication device, the second communication device does not establish the second audio channel with the audio output device, so that the interference of the newly established audio channel on the established first audio channel can be avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of wireless communication technology, and in particular to an audio control method and apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Short-range communication refers to data transmission and communication over a relatively short distance (typically within tens of meters) using wireless technology. This communication method does not require traditional wired connections, thus offering greater flexibility and convenience. Short-range communication technology has wide applications in many fields. It enables wireless information exchange between multiple devices that support short-range communication, making data transmission between devices faster and more efficient. For example, an audio output device can communicate with a communication device over short range, outputting audio through the audio output device.

[0003] Currently, a short-range connection can be established between one audio output device and one communication device. When the communication device needs to play audio, an audio channel is established between the communication device and the audio output device, and the audio from the communication device is played through the audio output device. However, with the increasing number of communication device types, one audio output device may establish short-range connections with multiple communication devices. When multiple communication devices have audio playback needs simultaneously, how the audio output device manages the audio data from multiple communication devices becomes a problem that needs to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides an audio control method and apparatus for providing a scheme for managing audio data of multiple communication devices using an audio output device.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide an audio control method. This method can be applied to an audio output device, a module (e.g., a circuit, chip, or chip system) within the audio output device, or a logic node, logic module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the audio output device. Taking an application to an audio output device as an example, the method includes: after the audio output device establishes a first audio channel with a first communication device, the audio output device sends first information to a second communication device, the first information being used to instruct the second communication device not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device.

[0006] Using the above method, after the audio output device establishes a first audio channel with the first communication device, the audio output device can instruct the second communication device not to establish a second audio channel with it by sending a first message. This avoids interference between the newly established audio channel and the existing first audio channel. When the audio output device is connected to both the first and second communication devices, it can manage the audio signals from both devices effectively, ensuring reliable audio data transmission between them.

[0007] The first information is used to instruct the second communication device not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device, or it can be used to instruct the second communication device not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the second communication device is instructed not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device, specifically by instructing the second communication device to turn off the in-band ringtone mode.

[0009] Using the above method, the audio output device can instruct the second communication device to turn off the in-band ringtone mode. In this way, when the second communication device receives an incoming call, it will not use the in-band ringtone mode, and thus the second communication device will not establish a second audio channel between the second communication device and the audio output device, thereby avoiding interference from the first audio channel caused by the newly established second audio channel.

[0010] In one possible implementation, after the audio output device determines that the first audio channel is disconnected, it sends a second message to the second communication device, wherein the second message is used to instruct the second communication device to enable the in-band ringtone mode.

[0011] Using the above method, the audio output device can instruct the second communication device to enable in-band ringtone mode after the first audio channel is disconnected; thus, after the first audio channel is disconnected, the second communication device can establish an audio channel with the audio output device to transmit in-band ringtone when it is in incoming call mode.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the second communication device is instructed not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device, specifically by notifying the second communication device that the audio output device does not receive ringtone-type audio data.

[0013] Using the above method, the audio output device can notify the second communication device that it does not receive ringtone-type audio data. In this way, when the second communication device receives an incoming call, it will not transmit the in-band ringtone to the audio output device. As a result, the second communication device will not establish a second audio channel between the second communication device and the audio output device, thereby avoiding interference from the first audio channel caused by the newly established second audio channel.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the audio output device sets the type of receivable audio stream in the audio output device to not receive audio data of the ringtone type.

[0015] Using the above method, the audio output device updates its own configuration to not receive ringtone-type audio data; in this way, the audio output device will not receive in-band ringtones transmitted by other communication devices, avoiding the establishment of new audio channels with other communication devices when establishing the first audio channel with the first communication device, thereby ensuring the reliability of audio data transmission in the first audio channel.

[0016] In one possible implementation, after determining that the first audio channel is disconnected, the audio output device sets the type of the receivable audio stream in the audio output device to audio data of the receivable ringtone type.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the audio output device sends a third message to the second communication device, the third message being used to notify the second communication device that the audio output device can receive audio data of the ringtone type.

[0018] Using the above method, after the first audio channel is disconnected, the audio output device can update its own configuration to receive ringtone-type audio data; thus, after the first audio channel is disconnected, when the second communication device is in incoming call mode, it can establish an audio channel transmission band for ringtones with the audio output device.

[0019] In one possible implementation, instructing the second communication device not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device specifically involves notifying the second communication device that the audio output device has established an audio channel.

[0020] Using the above method, the audio output device can notify the second communication device that an audio channel has been established. In this way, when the second communication device receives an incoming call, it will not establish a second audio channel with the audio output device, thereby avoiding interference from the first audio channel caused by the newly established second audio channel.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the audio output device receives a fourth message from a second communication device, the fourth message indicating that the in-band ringtone mode should be turned off.

[0022] Using the above method, after receiving the fourth information, the audio output device can determine that it will not use the in-band ringtone mode.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the audio output device sets the audio channel establishment status in the audio output device to "established audio channel".

[0024] Using the above method, the audio output device updates its own configuration and sets the audio channel establishment status to "established audio channel". In this way, when the audio output device establishes the first audio channel with the first communication device, it can avoid establishing a new audio channel with other communication devices, thereby ensuring the reliability of audio data transmission through the first audio channel.

[0025] In one possible implementation, after determining that the first audio channel is disconnected, the audio output device sets the audio channel establishment status in the audio output device to "no audio channel established".

[0026] In one possible implementation, the audio output device sends a fifth message to the second communication device, the fifth message being used to notify the second communication device that the audio output device has not established an audio channel.

[0027] In one possible implementation, the audio output device receives a sixth message from a second communication device, the sixth message indicating the activation of the in-band ringtone mode.

[0028] Using the above method, after the first audio channel is disconnected, the audio output device can update its own configuration and set the audio channel establishment status to "no audio channel established"; and notify the second communication device that the audio output device has not established an audio channel through the fifth message; thus, after the first audio channel is disconnected, when the second communication device is in the incoming call state, it can establish an audio channel with the audio output device to transmit the ringtone within the transmission band.

[0029] In one possible implementation, the second audio channel is used to transmit in-band ringtones or call voice messages sent by the second communication device to the audio output device; the audio output device receives call indication information from the second communication device and plays a local ringtone.

[0030] Using the above method, when the audio output device establishes a first audio channel with the first communication device, the second communication device does not establish a second audio channel with the audio output device. In this case, when the second communication device is in incoming call mode, the second communication device and the audio output device play the ringtone in non-in-band ringtone mode.

[0031] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide an audio control method. This method can be applied to a second communication device, a module (e.g., a circuit, chip, or chip system) within the second communication device, or a logic node, logic module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of an audio output device. Taking the application to a second communication device as an example, the method includes: the second communication device receiving first information from an audio output device, the first information indicating that the second communication device does not establish a second audio channel with the audio output device, wherein the audio output device is a device that has established a first audio channel with the first communication device; and when the second communication device is in an incoming call state, the second communication device sending incoming call indication information to the audio output device.

[0032] Using the above method, the audio output device can instruct the second communication device not to establish a second audio channel with it by sending a first message. This avoids interference between the newly established audio channel and the existing first audio channel. When the audio output device is connected to both the first and second communication devices, it can manage the audio signals from both devices effectively, ensuring reliable audio data transmission between them. Furthermore, when the second communication device is receiving a call, the audio output device and the audio output device use a non-in-band ringtone mode to play the ringtone.

[0033] In one possible implementation, the second communication device is instructed not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device, specifically by instructing the second communication device to turn off the in-band ringtone mode.

[0034] Using the above method, the audio output device can instruct the second communication device to turn off the in-band ringtone mode. In this way, when the second communication device receives an incoming call, it will not use the in-band ringtone mode, and thus the second communication device will not establish a second audio channel between the second communication device and the audio output device, thereby avoiding interference from the first audio channel caused by the newly established second audio channel.

[0035] In one possible implementation, the second communication device sets the ringtone mode to an in-band ringtone mode.

[0036] Using the method described above, the second communication device can update its configuration and set the ringtone mode to an in-band ringtone mode. In this way, when the second communication device receives an incoming call, it uses the in-band ringtone mode and does not initiate the establishment of a second audio channel with the audio output device, thereby avoiding interference with the first audio channel.

[0037] In one possible implementation, after the first audio channel is disconnected, the second communication device receives second information from the audio output device, the second information being used to instruct the second communication device to enable in-band ringtone mode.

[0038] In one possible implementation, the second communication device sets its ringtone mode to an in-band ringtone mode.

[0039] Using the above method, the audio output device can instruct the second communication device to enable in-band ringtone mode after the first audio channel is disconnected; the second communication device updates its own configuration and sets the ringtone mode to in-band ringtone mode; thus, after the first audio channel is disconnected, the second communication device can establish an audio channel with the audio output device to transmit in-band ringtone when it is in incoming call mode.

[0040] In one possible implementation, the second communication device is instructed not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device, specifically by notifying the second communication device that the audio output device does not receive ringtone-type audio data.

[0041] Using the above method, the audio output device can notify the second communication device that it does not receive ringtone-type audio data. In this way, when the second communication device receives an incoming call, it will not transmit the in-band ringtone to the audio output device. As a result, the second communication device will not establish a second audio channel between the second communication device and the audio output device, thereby avoiding interference from the first audio channel caused by the newly established second audio channel.

[0042] In one possible implementation, after the first audio channel is disconnected, the second communication device receives third information from the audio output device. The third information is used to notify the second communication device that the audio output device can receive audio data of the ringtone type.

[0043] Using the above method, the audio output device can notify the audio output device that it can receive ringtone-type audio data after the first audio channel is disconnected; thus, after the first audio channel is disconnected, when the second communication device is in incoming call mode, it can establish an audio channel transmission band for ringtones with the audio output device.

[0044] In one possible implementation, instructing the second communication device not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device specifically involves notifying the second communication device that the audio output device has established an audio channel.

[0045] Using the above method, the audio output device can notify the second communication device that an audio channel has been established. In this way, when the second communication device receives an incoming call, it will not establish a second audio channel with the audio output device, thereby avoiding interference from the first audio channel caused by the newly established second audio channel.

[0046] In one possible implementation, the second communication device sends a fourth message to the audio output device, the fourth message indicating that the in-band ringtone mode is turned off.

[0047] Using the above method, after receiving the fourth information, the audio output device can determine that it will not use the in-band ringtone mode.

[0048] In one possible implementation, after the first audio channel is disconnected, the second communication device receives a fifth message from the audio output device, which is used to notify the second communication device that the audio output device has not established an audio channel.

[0049] In one possible implementation, the second communication device sends a sixth message to the audio output device, the sixth message indicating that the in-band ringtone mode should be enabled.

[0050] Using the above method, the audio output device notifies the second communication device via the fifth information that the audio output device has not established an audio channel and instructs the audio output device to enable in-band ringtone mode; thus, after the first audio channel is disconnected, the second communication device can establish an audio channel with the audio output device to transmit in-band ringtone when it is in incoming call mode.

[0051] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide an audio control method. This method can be applied to an audio output device, a module (e.g., a circuit, chip, or chip system) within the audio output device, or a logic node, logic module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the audio output device. Taking an application to an audio output device as an example, the method includes: after the audio output device establishes a first audio channel with a first communication device, the audio output device sets the type of receivable audio stream to not receive ringtone-type audio data.

[0052] Using the above method, after the audio output device establishes a first audio channel with the first communication device, the audio output device updates its own configuration to not receive ringtone-type audio data. In this way, the audio output device will not receive in-band ringtones transmitted by other communication devices, thus avoiding the establishment of new audio channels with other communication devices when establishing a first audio channel with the first communication device, thereby ensuring the reliability of audio data transmission in the first audio channel.

[0053] In one possible implementation, after determining that the first audio channel is disconnected, the audio output device sets the receivable audio stream type to receivable ringtone type audio data.

[0054] Using the above method, after the first audio channel is disconnected, the audio output device can update its own configuration to receive ringtone-type audio data; thus, after the first audio channel is disconnected, when the second communication device is in incoming call mode, it can establish an audio channel transmission band for ringtones with the audio output device.

[0055] Fourthly, this application provides a communication device that has the functions of implementing the first or third aspect above. For example, the communication device includes modules, units, or means corresponding to the operations involved in the first or third aspect above. The modules, units, or means can be implemented by software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0056] Fifthly, this application provides a communication device that has the functions of the second aspect above. For example, the communication device includes modules, units or means corresponding to the operations involved in the second aspect above. The modules, units or means can be implemented by software, or by hardware, or by a combination of software and hardware.

[0057] Sixthly, this application provides a communication device including an interface circuit and one or more processors. The one or more processors are coupled to a memory. The memory stores part or all of the necessary computer program or instructions for implementing the functions described in the first or second aspect. The one or more processors are executable to the computer program or instructions, which, when executed, cause the communication device to implement the methods in any possible design or implementation of the first or second aspect. The interface circuit is used to implement the communication functions within the communication device and / or the communication functions between the communication device and other devices or components.

[0058] The aforementioned communication device may be an audio output device, a module (such as a circuit, chip, or chip system) in an audio output device, or a logic node, logic module, or software that can realize all or part of the functions of an audio output device.

[0059] In a seventh aspect, this application provides a communication device including an interface circuit and one or more processors. The one or more processors are coupled to a memory. The memory stores part or all of the necessary computer program or instructions for implementing the functions described in the second aspect above. The one or more processors are executable to carry out the computer program or instructions, causing the communication device to implement the methods in any possible design or implementation of the second aspect above. The interface circuit is used to implement the communication functions within the communication device and / or the communication functions between the communication device and other devices or components.

[0060] The aforementioned communication device may be a second communication device, a module (e.g., a circuit, chip, or chip system) in the second communication device, or a logic node, logic module, or software that can realize all or part of the functions of the second communication device.

[0061] Eighthly, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program or instructions that, when executed, implement the method in any of the possible designs of the first to third aspects described above.

[0062] Ninthly, this application provides a computer program product comprising a computer program or instructions that, when executed, implement the method in any of the possible designs of the first to third aspects described above.

[0063] In a tenth aspect, this application provides a communication system, including an audio output device for performing any possible implementation of the first aspect described above, a second communication device for performing any possible implementation of the second aspect described above, and a first communication device.

[0064] For the various aspects from the fourth to the tenth aspects mentioned above, and the technical effects that each aspect may achieve, please refer to the description of the technical effects that can be achieved by the various possible solutions for each aspect from the first to the third aspects mentioned above. They will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0065] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a communication protocol architecture for a star-flash communication technology provided in this application embodiment;

[0066] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a network architecture provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0067] Figure 3A A communication flowchart of a communication device and an audio output device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0068] Figure 3B A communication flowchart of a communication device and an audio output device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0069] Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating an audio control method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0070] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating an audio control method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0071] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating an audio control method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0072] Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating an audio control method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0073] Figure 8A flowchart illustrating an audio control method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0074] Figure 9 A flowchart illustrating an audio control method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0075] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0076] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0077] The following is an explanation of some of the terms used in the embodiments of this application.

[0078] 1. Includes in-bandring tone:

[0079] A ringtone is the audio sound played by a communication device when it receives a call; for example, the audio played by a mobile phone when it is receiving an incoming call can be called a ringtone. When a communication device establishes a communication connection with an audio output device, if the communication device receives an incoming call, it establishes an audio channel with the audio output device, and transmits the ringtone to the audio output device through this audio channel; the audio output device receives the ringtone transmitted by the communication device and plays it; this ringtone playback method is called in-band ringtone playback. For example, the communication device can be a mobile phone, and the audio output device can be a headset. A communication connection is established between the mobile phone and the headset (such as establishing a Bluetooth or Starlink connection); when the mobile phone receives an incoming call, it establishes an audio channel with the headset; based on this audio channel, the mobile phone transmits the ringtone to the headset, and the headset receives and plays the ringtone. Based on the in-band ringtone playback method, users can flexibly set personalized ringtones on the communication device side.

[0080] 2. Non-included ringtone:

[0081] Out-of-band ringtones are also known as non-in-band ringtones. When a communication device establishes a communication connection with an audio output device, if the communication device receives an incoming call and is in an incoming call state, it sends an incoming call indication to the audio output device through the established communication connection. This indication serves to show that the communication device is receiving an incoming call. Upon receiving the indication and confirming that the communication device is receiving an incoming call, the audio output device plays its local ringtone. This ringtone playback method is called out-of-band ringtone playback. For example, the communication device can be a mobile phone, and the audio output device can be a headset. A communication connection is established between the mobile phone and the headset (e.g., via Bluetooth or Starlink). When the mobile phone receives an incoming call and is in an incoming call state, it sends an incoming call indication to the headset based on this communication connection. After receiving the indication from the mobile phone, the headset plays its local ringtone.

[0082] Compared to in-band ringtone playback, when a communication device is receiving a call, it sends a call indication based on an established communication connection, without establishing an audio channel between the communication device and the audio output device. With out-of-band ringtone playback, the audio output device plays a local ringtone after receiving the call indication from the communication device; however, with in-band ringtone playback, an audio channel is established between the audio output device and the communication device. Through this audio channel, the communication device can send a ringtone to the audio output device, and the audio output device plays the ringtone sent by the communication device through the audio channel.

[0083] 3. Audio Channel:

[0084] An audio channel is used to transmit audio data between a communication device and an audio output device. The audio channel can be established using various wireless communication technologies; for example, an audio channel based on infrared, Bluetooth, Starlink, Zigbee, or Wi-Fi. Optionally, the audio channel can be a Bluetooth-based audio channel; the communication device and the audio output device can pair and connect via a Bluetooth module, thus establishing a Bluetooth-based audio channel between them. Optionally, the audio channel can be an audio channel based on the Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) or the Hands-Free Profile (HFP). Optionally, the audio channel can be a Starlink-based audio channel; the communication device and the audio output device can establish a Starlink connection, thus establishing a Starlink-based audio channel between them.

[0085] 4. Starlight Access Technology:

[0086] Sparklink access technologies include Sparklink Basic (SLB) access technology and Sparklink Low Energy (SLE) access technology. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the communication protocol architecture of the Starflash communication technology involved in the embodiments of this application. See also... Figure 1 As shown, the protocol architecture includes a basic application layer, a basic service layer, and a StarShine access layer (also known as the access layer). The basic application layer and the basic service layer can be collectively referred to as the StarShine upper layer. The following sections will introduce each layer in the protocol architecture.

[0087] Basic application layer: includes various general frameworks; in order to enable communication between different devices on different platforms, the basic application layer has defined frameworks for various possible and universally applicable application scenarios.

[0088] The basic service layer includes the control plane and the data plane. The control plane primarily provides services such as device discovery and management. The data plane includes channel control data, broadcast data, service management data, real-time data, and reliable data, as well as transmission control adaptation protocols, transmission control protocol / internet protocol (TCP / IP), and transparent transmission protocols.

[0089] The StarFlash access layer includes an SLB module and an SLE module. The SLB module can also be referred to as the SLB access layer, and the SLE module as the SLE access layer. The SLB module communicates via SLB access technology. SLB access technology has high bandwidth communication capabilities and can support high-bandwidth services such as wireless screen projection and video calls. It offers high data throughput and fast data transmission speeds. However, SLB access technology has relatively high power consumption and a longer access process.

[0090] The SLE module communicates via SLE access technology. SLE features low-power communication capabilities; when the SLE module is idle (i.e., not connected to other devices), it can broadcast device information and data on three fixed broadcast channels, enabling rapid discovery and connection, thus saving device power. However, SLE access technology supports relatively small bandwidth and has a slower data transmission speed. Therefore, it is typically used for services with low bandwidth requirements, such as audio playback via wireless headphones or mobile phone control of smart home devices.

[0091] It is understood that the communication protocol architecture shown above is only one possible example, and other possible protocol layers may also be included in the communication protocol architecture. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0092] 5. Bluetooth access technology:

[0093] Bluetooth is a short-range wireless communication technology used for low-power data transmission between devices. It is commonly used to establish Bluetooth connections between smartphones, headphones, speakers, smart home devices, etc. Bluetooth access technologies include Bluetooth Classic and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). Bluetooth Classic is suitable for high-data-rate transmissions, such as audio streaming (headphones, speakers, etc.), and is mainly used for large file transfers and device connections. Bluetooth Low Energy is suitable for connecting low-power devices, such as smartwatches and IoT devices, supporting longer standby times and shorter data transmission times. To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0094] The at least one item mentioned in the embodiments of this application refers to one or more items. Multiple items refers to two or more items. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, or B alone. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship. Furthermore, it should be understood that although the terms "first," "second," etc., may be used to describe objects in the embodiments of this application, these objects should not be limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish the objects from each other.

[0095] The terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, used in the following description of embodiments of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or device that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but may optionally include other steps or units not listed, or may optionally include other steps or units inherent to these processes, methods, products, or devices. It should be noted that in embodiments of this application, words such as "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate examples, illustrations, or descriptions. Any method or design described as "exemplary" or "for example" in embodiments of this application should not be construed as preferred or advantageous over other methods or designs. Specifically, the use of words such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a concrete manner.

[0096] To facilitate understanding of this solution, let's first take... Figure 2 The network architecture shown in the diagram is used as an example to illustrate the network architecture applicable to the embodiments of this application. For example... Figure 2As shown, the network architecture may include multiple communication devices (such as a first communication device and a second communication device) and audio output devices. The first communication device, the second communication device, and the audio output device are configured with either the Bluetooth communication protocol or the StarScan communication protocol. The first communication device and the audio output device can establish a Bluetooth connection based on the Bluetooth communication protocol; the second communication device and the audio output device can also establish a Bluetooth connection based on the Bluetooth communication protocol. Alternatively, the first communication device and the audio output device can establish a StarScan connection based on the StarScan communication protocol; the second communication device and the audio output device can also establish a StarScan connection based on the StarScan communication protocol.

[0097] The communication devices (such as the first communication device and the second communication device) in this application embodiment can be devices from various fields. For example, in the field of smart terminals, there are mobile phones, tablets, wearable devices, augmented reality (AR) / virtual reality (VR) devices, laptops, ultramobile personal computers (UMPCs), netbooks, or personal digital assistants (PDAs); or in the field of smart homes, there are large-screen devices, home electronic devices, etc.; or in the field of smart manufacturing, there are robotic arms, cameras, joysticks, monitors, logistics vehicles, or smart shelves, etc.; or in the field of smart cars, there are in-vehicle devices or other devices, etc. This application embodiment does not limit the specific type of communication device.

[0098] The audio output device in this application embodiment can be a device capable of playing audio. For example, the audio output device can be headphones, or the audio output device can be a speaker (such as an artificial intelligence (AI) speaker, a high fidelity (HiFi) speaker, etc.).

[0099] The network architecture and business scenarios described in the embodiments of this application are for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of network architecture and the emergence of new business scenarios, the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0100] The network architecture described in this application uses the establishment of a Starlink or Bluetooth connection between devices as an example. Those skilled in the art will readily understand that the various aspects involved in this application can be extended to other communication networks employing various standards or protocols, such as high-performance radio local area networks (HIPERLANs), wireless wide area networks (WWANs), wireless personal area networks (WPANs), or other networks currently known or developed in the future. Therefore, regardless of the coverage area and wireless access protocol used, the various aspects provided in this application can be applied to any suitable wireless network.

[0101] The technical solutions of this application embodiment can also be applied to various communication systems or networks, such as: WLAN communication systems, Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) systems, Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, LTE Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) systems, LTE TDD systems, Universal Mobile Telecommunication System (UMTS) systems, Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) communication systems, 5th Generation (5G) systems or New Radio (NR) systems, Future Communications systems, Internet of Things (IoT) networks, or Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) networks, etc. The communication systems applicable to this application described above are merely illustrative examples; the application is not limited to these examples. These examples are uniformly described here and will not be repeated below.

[0102] This application supports Spark Link / NearLink standard protocols; it also supports Bluetooth standard protocols, such as the classic Bluetooth standard protocol and / or the Bluetooth Low Energy standard protocol. Additionally, this application supports IEEE protocols, such as IEEE 802.11be / Wi-Fi 7 / EHT, IEEE 802.11bn / UHR / Wi-Fi 8, IEEE Integrated mmWave / IMMW, IEEE 802.15 / UWB, or IEEE 802.11bf / sensing.

[0103] Currently, short-range connections between an audio output device and a communication device are supported. When the communication device needs to play audio, it can establish an audio channel with the audio output device, allowing the audio from the communication device to be played through the audio output device. For example, if the audio output device is a headset and the communication device is a mobile phone, a short-range connection can be established between the headset and the phone, such as via Bluetooth or a satellite connection. When both the communication device and the audio output device support in-band ringtone mode, the audio output device establishes a short-range connection with the communication device. When the communication device receives an incoming call and is in incoming call mode, the communication device establishes an audio channel with the audio output device, sending a ringtone to the audio output device through this audio channel. The audio output device then receives and plays the ringtone.

[0104] In related technologies, communication devices and audio output devices have been standardized for call scenarios. Taking the establishment of a Bluetooth connection between a communication device and an audio output device as an example, the following sections will introduce Bluetooth Classic access technology and Bluetooth Low Energy access technology respectively.

[0105] For classic Bluetooth access technology: The Bluetooth Hands-Free Profile (HFP) defines in-band ringtone functionality in call scenarios; communication devices and audio output devices can interact, such as the audio output device sending capabilities it supports to the communication device, and the communication device sending capabilities it supports to the audio output device, including in-band ringtone capability; when both the communication device and the audio output device support in-band ringtone capability, the communication device can send an instruction to the audio output device to enable in-band ringtone mode, or the communication device can send an instruction to the audio output device to disable in-band ringtone mode.

[0106] In HFP, communication equipment can also be called an audio gate (AG), and audio output equipment can be called hands-free (HF). Figure 3A As shown, taking AG as a mobile phone and HF as Bluetooth as an example; HF can send an attention (AT) + Bluetooth retrieve supported features (BRSF) command to AG, and the AT+BRSF command can carry the capabilities supported by HF; AG can send a +BRSF command to HF, and the +BRSF command can carry the capabilities supported by AG; after HF receives the +BRSF command sent by AG, HF returns an acknowledgment command to AG, such as... Figure 3A The OK command in [the context of the command]. Also, as in [other contexts]... Figure 3BAs shown, the AG can send a +BSIR command to the HF to indicate whether the in-band ringtone mode is turned on or off; for example, a +BSIR command carrying 1 indicates that the in-band ringtone mode is turned on, and a +BSIR command carrying 0 indicates that the in-band ringtone mode is turned on.

[0107] Regarding Bluetooth Low Energy access technology: The Call Control Profile (CCP) defines the in-band ringtone function in a call scenario; the CCP defines a call control server and a call control client, where the call control server can be the communication device mentioned above, and the call control client can be the audio output device mentioned above; the call control server carries the Telephone Bearer Service (TBS), and the TBS can define whether to enable or disable the in-band ringtone mode. The call control server can send the value of this field to the call control client, thereby controlling the call control client to enable or disable the in-band ringtone mode.

[0108] Based on the call scenarios described above, when both the communication device and the audio output device have in-band ringtone mode enabled, an audio channel is established between the communication device and the audio output device when the communication device receives an incoming call. Based on this audio channel, the communication device sends the in-band ringtone to the audio output device. When both the communication device and the audio output device have in-band ringtone mode disabled, when the communication device receives an incoming call, it sends call indication information to the audio output device based on the established communication connection (such as Bluetooth or Starlink). Upon receiving the call indication information, the audio output device plays a local ringtone.

[0109] However, with the increasing variety of communication devices, an audio output device may connect to multiple communication devices simultaneously. In scenarios where an audio output device connects to multiple communication devices simultaneously, and these devices have simultaneous audio playback needs, how the audio output device manages the audio data from these multiple devices becomes a problem that needs to be solved. For example, consider multiple communication devices, including a first communication device and a second communication device. Both the first and second communication devices are in-band ringtone mode. In a call scenario, when the first communication device establishes a first audio channel with the audio output device and transmits in-band ringtones or call voice through this first audio channel, if the second communication device receives an incoming call, according to relevant technology, the second communication device will initiate the establishment of a second audio channel with the audio output device and send its own in-band ringtone to the audio output device through this second audio channel. This results in the audio output device establishing two audio channels, which interferes with the original audio transmission through the first audio channel between the audio output device and the first communication device, causing audio transmission interruptions in the first audio channel.

[0110] Based on this, this application provides an audio control method that, when an audio output device establishes a communication connection with multiple communication devices, prevents other communication devices from establishing audio channels with the audio output device when the audio output device has established an audio channel with one of the communication devices, thereby avoiding interference between the multiple audio channels established by the audio output device.

[0111] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating an audio control method provided in an embodiment of this application. The communication method mainly includes the following steps 400-401. It can be understood that... Figure 4 The steps and execution order illustrated are merely examples. In actual implementation, some of the steps may be executed, or the remaining steps may also be executed. Similarly, the execution order of the steps may also be adjusted, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0112] In such Figure 4 In the audio control method flow shown, the audio output device can establish communication connections with multiple communication devices. In the following description, multiple communication devices include a first communication device and a second communication device as an example. The first communication device and the second communication device are only used to distinguish the multiple communication devices connected to the audio output device. It should be understood that the multiple communication devices may also include communication devices other than the first communication device and the second communication device.

[0113] In this embodiment, the communication connection established between the first communication device and the audio output device can be a short-range connection; optionally, the communication connection established between the first communication device and the audio output device can be a Bluetooth connection or a satellite connection. The communication connection established between the second communication device and the audio output device can be a short-range connection; optionally, the communication connection established between the second communication device and the audio output device can be a Bluetooth connection or a satellite connection.

[0114] When the audio output device establishes communication connections with the first communication device and the second communication device respectively, the communication connections between the first communication device and the audio output device, and between the first communication device and the second communication device and the audio output device, can be of the same type. For example, the first communication device and the audio output device establish a Bluetooth connection, and the second communication device and the audio output device establish a Bluetooth connection; or, for example, the first communication device and the audio output device establish a StarSignal connection, and the second communication device and the audio output device establish a StarSignal connection. Alternatively, the communication connections between the first communication device and the audio output device, and between the second communication device and the audio output device, can be of different types. For example, the first communication device and the audio output device establish a Bluetooth connection, and the second communication device and the audio output device establish a StarSignal connection; or, for example, the first communication device and the audio output device establish a StarSignal connection, and the second communication device and the audio output device establish a Bluetooth connection.

[0115] The following description uses the communication connection between the first communication device and the audio output device, and the communication connection between the second communication device and the audio output device, as examples of the same type of connection.

[0116] Step 400: The first communication device establishes a first audio channel with the audio output device.

[0117] The first audio channel is an audio channel established based on the communication connection between the first communication device and the audio output device.

[0118] Optionally, the first audio channel can be used to transmit audio data of the first communication device; wherein the audio data includes, but is not limited to, ringtones, call voice, and multimedia audio.

[0119] The following section describes a call scenario, using the first audio channel for transmitting ringtones or call voice as an example.

[0120] In this embodiment of the application, when the first communication device and the audio output device establish a communication connection, when the first communication device receives an incoming call and is in the incoming call state, if the first communication device and the audio output device enable in-band ringtones, a first audio channel is established between the first communication device and the audio output device. In practice, the first communication device can initiate an audio channel establishment request to the audio output device, and the audio output device can return audio channel establishment confirmation information to the first communication device, thus establishing a first audio channel between the first communication device and the audio output device.

[0121] After the first communication device establishes a first audio channel with the audio output device, the first communication device can transmit the in-band ringtone to the audio output device based on the first audio channel; correspondingly, the audio output device plays the ringtone.

[0122] Optionally, in response to a user's answering operation triggered on the first communication device, when the first communication device receives the call voice, the first communication device may transmit the call voice to the audio output device based on the first audio channel; correspondingly, the audio output device plays the call voice.

[0123] Step 401: After the audio output device establishes a first audio channel with the first communication device, it sends the first information to the second communication device.

[0124] The first information is used to instruct the second communication device not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device.

[0125] Correspondingly, the second communication device receives the first information from the audio output device.

[0126] It should be understood that step 401 involves sending the first information after the audio output device determines that a first audio channel has been established with the first communication device. In practice, the audio output device may send the first information while establishing the first audio channel with the first communication device; for example, the audio output device may send the first information after receiving an audio channel establishment request from the first communication device and determining that a first audio channel has been established (before the audio output device returns audio channel establishment confirmation information to the first communication device). Alternatively, the audio output device may send the first information after establishing the first audio channel with the first communication device; for example, the audio output device may send the first information after receiving an audio channel establishment request from the first communication device and returning audio channel establishment confirmation information to the first communication device.

[0127] Optionally, the audio control method of this application embodiment may further include steps 402 to 403.

[0128] Step 402: When the second communication device is in incoming call state, send incoming call indication information to the audio output device.

[0129] Correspondingly, the audio output device receives incoming call indication information from the second communication device.

[0130] In this embodiment of the application, the second communication device can send incoming call indication information to the audio output device based on the communication connection between the second communication device and the audio output device; wherein, the incoming call indication information is used to indicate that the second communication device is in an incoming call state.

[0131] Step 403: The audio output device plays the local ringtone.

[0132] In step 403, the audio output device plays a local ringtone to notify the user that the second communication device is currently receiving a call.

[0133] In practice, the local ringtone played by the audio output device can be a ringtone pre-stored on the audio output device.

[0134] It should be understood that steps 402 and 403 above are audio playback methods without in-band ringtones. Based on this audio playback method, the audio output device does not need to establish an audio channel with the second communication device, so it will not interfere with the first audio channel established between the audio output device and the first communication device.

[0135] In this application embodiment, when instructing the second communication device not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device via first information, there can be several different indication methods. The first information will be described in detail below.

[0136] Instruction Method 1: The first information instructs the second communication device not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device, specifically: the first information instructs the second communication device to turn off the in-band ringtone mode.

[0137] In this first indication method, optionally, when the audio output device and the first communication device have established a first audio channel, and the audio output device determines that the second communication device has enabled the in-band ringtone mode, the audio output device sends a first message to the second communication device to instruct the second communication device to disable the in-band ringtone mode.

[0138] Optionally, after receiving the first information, the second communication device may set the ringtone mode to an in-band ringtone mode.

[0139] After the audio output device determines that the first audio channel between itself and the first communication device is disconnected, the audio output device may send a second message to the second communication device; wherein the second message is used to instruct the second communication device to enable the in-band ringtone mode.

[0140] Correspondingly, the second communication device receives the second information from the audio output device and sets the ringtone mode to in-band ringtone mode.

[0141] Since the communication connection established between the audio output device and the first communication device and the second communication device in this embodiment can be of various different types, the following description takes a Star Flash connection or a Bluetooth connection as an example.

[0142] 1. A star-flash connection is established between the audio output device and the first communication device, and a star-flash connection is established between the audio output device and the second communication device.

[0143] For StarFlash access technology, the communication device can be called a call gateway. The <<Call Control>> service carried by the communication device includes a field corresponding to the ringtone mode, which can also be called a characteristic status attribute field. For example, the length of the field corresponding to the ringtone mode can be 1 byte. Different values ​​of the field corresponding to the ringtone mode can represent different ringtone modes of the communication device. As shown in the bitmap in Table 1, bit0 represents the value of the field corresponding to the ringtone mode; when bit0 is 0, it means that the in-band ringtone is turned off; when bit0 is 1, it means that the in-band ringtone is turned on.

[0144] Table 1

[0145]

[0146] In implementation, the field corresponding to the ringtone mode can be read. The communication device can read the value of the field corresponding to the ringtone mode. For example, when the value of the field corresponding to the ringtone mode is 0, the communication device determines that the ringtone mode is a non-in-band ringtone mode; when the value of the field corresponding to the ringtone mode is 1, the communication device determines that the ringtone mode is an in-band ringtone mode. Optionally, the field corresponding to the ringtone mode can support notification or indication. The communication device can notify or indicate the value of the field corresponding to the ringtone mode to other devices, such as audio output devices, so that the audio output devices can determine the ringtone mode of the communication device.

[0147] In addition, the <<Call Control>> service carried by the communication device also includes fields corresponding to the call status, which can also be called call status attribute fields. The call status indicates the status of currently active calls (an active call can be understood as a call currently initiated or received by the communication device). For example, as shown in Table 2, the <<Call Control>> service includes descriptive information for each field related to currently active calls, including fields corresponding to the number of calls, the call identifier, the call status, and the call flag.

[0148] Table 2

[0149]

[0150] In implementation, the field corresponding to the call status can be read. The communication device can read the value of the field corresponding to the call status. For example, when the value of the field corresponding to the call status is 0x01, the communication device determines that the call status is an incoming call. Optionally, the field corresponding to the call status can support notification or indication. The communication device can notify or indicate the value of the field corresponding to the call status to other devices, such as an audio output device, so that the audio output device can determine the call status of the communication device.

[0151] When an audio output device establishes a StarFlash connection with a communication device, the audio output device (also known as the "Call Control" client) interacts with the communication device (also known as the "Call Control" server) through call control requests and responses to control the call process.

[0152] For example, call control requests and responses are carried on the method call and method response of the call control point, respectively. For a call control request, the handle of the method call should be the handle of the call control point, and the content of the call control request should be placed in the parameter field of the method call. The call control request includes an opcode and a parameter field. The opcode indicates the type of request, is 1 byte long, and is represented by an unsigned integer. The parameter field indicates the specific parameters required by the request. The format of the signaling exchange between the audio output device and the communication device can be a protocol data unit (PDU) format, such as the PDU format shown in Table 3.

[0153] Table 3

[0154]

[0155] Based on the star-flash related technologies introduced above, the specific implementation method of indication method one will be described below.

[0156] When an audio output device and a first communication device have established a first audio channel, the audio output device can determine the ringtone mode of the second communication device based on the value of the field (such as the characteristic status attribute field) corresponding to the ringtone mode in the <<call control>> service carried by the second communication device; if the value of the field (such as the characteristic status attribute field) corresponding to the ringtone mode in the <<call control>> service carried by the second communication device is 1, then the audio output device determines that the ringtone mode of the second communication device is the in-band ringtone mode.

[0157] When the audio output device determines that the ringtone mode of the second communication device is in-band ringtone mode, the audio output device sends a first message to the second communication device to instruct the second communication device to turn off the in-band ringtone mode.

[0158] For example, the first message can be the call control request mentioned above, and the information format of the first message can be the PDU format shown in Table 3 above.

[0159] Optionally, after receiving the first information, the second communication device can set the ringtone mode to an in-band ringtone mode by setting the value of the field corresponding to the ringtone mode in the <<Call Control>> service. For example, the second communication device can set the value of the field corresponding to the ringtone mode in the <<Call Control>> service to 0, thereby setting the ringtone mode to an in-band ringtone mode.

[0160] After the audio output device determines that the first audio channel between itself and the first communication device is disconnected, the audio output device can send a second message to the second communication device to instruct the second communication device to enable the in-band ringtone mode.

[0161] For example, the second information can be the call control request mentioned above, and the information format of the second information can be the PDU format shown in Table 3 above.

[0162] The disconnection of the first audio channel between the audio output device and the first communication device can be: the first audio channel between the audio output device and the first communication device is disconnected after the call on the first communication device ends; or, the first audio channel between the audio output device and the first communication device is disconnected after the user rejects the incoming call received by the first communication device while the audio output device is playing the in-band ringtone.

[0163] Optionally, after receiving the second information, the second communication device can set the ringtone mode to an in-band ringtone mode by setting the value of the field corresponding to the ringtone mode in the <<Call Control>> service. For example, the second communication device can set the value of the field corresponding to the ringtone mode in the <<Call Control>> service to 1, thereby setting the ringtone mode to an in-band ringtone mode.

[0164] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figure 5 This section introduces the audio control scheme using an indicator method. It's understandable that... Figure 5 The steps and execution order illustrated are merely examples. In actual implementation, some of the steps may be executed, or the remaining steps may also be executed. Similarly, the execution order of the steps may also be adjusted, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0165] Step 500: Establish a starlight connection between the first communication device and the audio output device.

[0166] Step 501: Establish a star connection between the second communication device and the audio output device.

[0167] It should be noted that there is no restriction on the order in which steps 500 and 501 are executed.

[0168] Step 502: The first communication device establishes a first audio channel with the audio output device.

[0169] In step 502, when the first communication device receives an incoming call and is in incoming call status, the first communication device sends an audio channel establishment request to the audio output device; the audio output device returns audio channel establishment confirmation information to the first communication device, and then the first audio channel is established between the first communication device and the audio output device.

[0170] It should be noted that there is no restriction on the order in which steps 502 and 501 are executed.

[0171] Step 503: The audio output device sends a first message to the second communication device, the first message being used to instruct the second communication device to turn off the in-band ringtone mode.

[0172] Correspondingly, the second communication device receives the first information sent by the audio output device.

[0173] Step 504: The second communication device modifies the value of the field corresponding to the ringtone mode in the <<Call Control>> service, and sets the ringtone mode to the non-in-band ringtone mode.

[0174] For example, the field corresponding to the ringtone mode in the <<Call Control>> service can be a feature status attribute field.

[0175] It should be noted that the method for the second communication device to modify the value of the field corresponding to the ringtone mode in the <<Call Control>> service and set the ringtone mode to the non-in-band ringtone mode can be found in the above description.

[0176] Step 505: When the second communication device is in incoming call mode, it sends incoming call indication information to the audio output device.

[0177] Correspondingly, the audio output device receives incoming call indication information from the second communication device.

[0178] Step 506: The audio output device plays the local ringtone.

[0179] It should be noted that steps 505 and 506 above are optional steps.

[0180] Step 507: The second communication device disconnects the first audio channel from the audio output device.

[0181] The first audio channel can be used to transmit the in-band ringtone of the second communication device, or it can be used to transmit the voice of the second communication device during a call; for example, after the call of the second communication device ends, the second communication device can disconnect the first audio channel with the audio output device.

[0182] Step 508: After the audio output device determines that the first audio channel with the first communication device is disconnected, it sends the second information to the second communication device.

[0183] The second information is used to instruct the second communication device to enable in-band ringtone mode.

[0184] Correspondingly, the second communication device receives the second information from the audio output device.

[0185] Step 509: The second communication device modifies the value of the field corresponding to the ringtone mode in the <<Call Control>> service, and sets the ringtone mode to in-band ringtone mode.

[0186] It should be noted that the method for the second communication device to modify the value of the field corresponding to the ringtone mode in the <<Call Control>> service and set the ringtone mode to the non-in-band ringtone mode can be found in the above description.

[0187] 2. A Bluetooth connection is established between the audio output device and the first communication device, and a Bluetooth connection is established between the audio output device and the second communication device.

[0188] For call control specifications of Bluetooth Low Energy access technology, the communication device can be referred to as a call control server. The telephone service carried by the communication device includes fields corresponding to the ringtone mode, which can also be called status flags fields. For example, different values ​​for the field corresponding to the ringtone mode can represent different ringtone modes of the communication device. A value of 0 indicates that in-band ringtones are disabled; a value of 1 indicates that in-band ringtones are enabled.

[0189] The Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) call control specification's telephone bearer service includes a field corresponding to the ringtone mode that can be read. The communication device can read the value of this field. For example, if the value of the field is 0, the communication device determines the ringtone mode as a non-in-band ringtone mode; if the value is 1, the communication device determines the ringtone mode as an in-band ringtone mode. Optionally, the field corresponding to the ringtone mode can support notification or indication. The communication device can notify or indicate the value of this field to other devices, such as an audio output device, so that the audio output device can determine the communication device's ringtone mode.

[0190] Furthermore, in this embodiment of the application, the field corresponding to the ringtone mode included in the telephone bearer service of the Bluetooth Low Energy Access technology call control specification supports writing. The communication device can modify the value of the field corresponding to the ringtone mode. For example, the communication device can change the value of the field corresponding to the ringtone mode from 1 to 0, and the communication device determines that the ringtone mode is adjusted from the in-band ringtone mode to the non-in-band ringtone mode; or, for another example, the communication device can change the value of the field corresponding to the ringtone mode from 0 to 1, and the communication device determines that the ringtone mode is adjusted from the non-in-band ringtone mode to the in-band ringtone mode.

[0191] Based on the Bluetooth Low Energy access technology described above, the specific implementation method of indication method one will be introduced below.

[0192] When the audio output device and the first communication device have established a first audio channel, the audio output device can determine the ringtone mode of the second communication device based on the value of the field (such as the status flags field) corresponding to the ringtone mode in the telephone service carried by the second communication device; if the value of the field (such as the status flags field) corresponding to the ringtone mode in the <<call control>> service carried by the second communication device is 1, then the audio output device determines that the ringtone mode of the second communication device is the in-band ringtone mode.

[0193] When the audio output device determines that the ringtone mode of the second communication device is in-band ringtone mode, the audio output device sends a first message to the second communication device to instruct the second communication device to turn off the in-band ringtone mode.

[0194] Optionally, after receiving the first information, the second communication device can set the ringing mode to a non-in-band ringing mode by setting the value of the field corresponding to the ringing mode in the telephone bearer service of the call control specification. For example, after receiving the first information, the second communication device can perform a write operation, writing the value 0 to the field corresponding to the ringing mode in the telephone bearer service of the call control specification, thereby setting the ringing mode to a non-in-band ringing mode.

[0195] After the audio output device determines that the first audio channel between itself and the first communication device is disconnected, the audio output device can send a second message to the second communication device to instruct the second communication device to enable the in-band ringtone mode.

[0196] The disconnection of the first audio channel between the audio output device and the first communication device can be: the first audio channel between the audio output device and the first communication device is disconnected after the call on the first communication device ends; or, the first audio channel between the audio output device and the first communication device is disconnected after the user rejects the incoming call received by the first communication device while the audio output device is playing the in-band ringtone.

[0197] Optionally, after receiving the second information, the second communication device can set the ringing mode to an in-band ringing mode by setting the value of the field corresponding to the ringing mode in the telephone bearer service of the call control specification. For example, after receiving the second information, the second communication device can perform a write operation, writing the value 1 to the field corresponding to the ringing mode in the telephone bearer service of the call control specification, thereby setting the ringing mode to an in-band ringing mode.

[0198] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figure 6 This section introduces the audio control scheme using an indicator method. It's understandable that... Figure 6 The steps and execution order illustrated are merely examples. In actual implementation, some of the steps may be executed, or the remaining steps may also be executed. Similarly, the execution order of the steps may also be adjusted, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0199] Step 600: Establish a Bluetooth connection between the first communication device and the audio output device.

[0200] Step 601: Establish a Bluetooth connection between the second communication device and the audio output device.

[0201] It should be noted that there is no restriction on the order in which steps 600 and 601 are executed.

[0202] Steps 602 to 603 can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 5 Steps 502 to 503 in the previous section will not be repeated here.

[0203] Step 604: The second communication device modifies the value of the field corresponding to the ringtone mode in the telephone bearer service of the call control specification, and sets the ringtone mode to the non-in-band ringtone mode.

[0204] For example, in the telephone bearer service of the call control specification, the field corresponding to the ringtone mode can be the status flags field.

[0205] It should be noted that the method for modifying the value of the field corresponding to the ringtone mode in the telephone bearer service of the call control specification of the second communication device, and setting the ringtone mode to the non-in-band ringtone mode, can be found in the above description.

[0206] Steps 605 to 608 can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 5 Steps 505 to 508 in the previous section will not be repeated here.

[0207] Step 609: The second communication device modifies the value of the field corresponding to the ringtone mode in the telephone bearer service of the call control specification, and sets the ringtone mode to in-band ringtone mode.

[0208] It should be noted that the method for modifying the value of the field corresponding to the ringtone mode in the telephone bearer service of the call control specification of the second communication device, and setting the ringtone mode to the non-in-band ringtone mode, can be found in the above description.

[0209] Instruction Method Two: The first message instructs the second communication device not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device. Specifically, the first message notifies the second communication device that the audio output device will not receive ringtone-type audio data.

[0210] In this second indication method, when the audio output device and the first communication device have established a first audio channel, the audio output device can set the type of receivable audio stream to not receive ringtone type audio data.

[0211] Optionally, after the audio output device modifies the type of the receivable audio stream to not receive ringtone type audio data, the first information is sent to the second communication device.

[0212] In practice, the audio output device can send the first information to the second communication device in a variety of different ways, which will be explained below.

[0213] Implementation method 1: The audio output device can send the first information to the second communication device through the communication connection between the two devices.

[0214] In this implementation method 1, after the audio output device establishes a first audio channel with the first communication device, and a communication connection is established between the audio output device and the second communication device, the audio output device can send first information to the second communication device through the communication connection.

[0215] Optionally, when the audio output device and the first communication device have established a first audio channel, and the audio output device determines that the second communication device has enabled in-band ringtone mode, the audio output device sends a first message to the second communication device to notify the second communication device that the audio output device does not receive audio data of the ringtone type.

[0216] Implementation method 2: The audio output device can send the first information via broadcast.

[0217] In this second implementation, after establishing a first audio channel with the first communication device, the audio output device can broadcast first information. Based on this, the second communication device can receive the broadcast from the audio output device and obtain the first information.

[0218] It should be understood that implementation method 2 can send the first information to the second communication device when the audio output device has not established a communication connection with the second communication device.

[0219] Accordingly, the second communication device receives the first information from the audio output device. Based on the first information, the second communication device can determine that the audio output device does not receive ringtone-type audio data.

[0220] In addition, this application embodiment also provides an audio control scheme, which specifically includes: when an audio output device and a first communication device establish a first audio channel, the audio output device can set the receivable audio stream type to not receive ringtone type audio data. After the second communication device establishes a communication connection with the audio output device, the second communication device can obtain the receivable audio stream type of the audio output device; when the receivable audio stream type of the audio output device is not ringtone type audio data, the second communication device can determine that the audio output device does not receive ringtone type audio data.

[0221] Based on this, when the second communication device receives an incoming call and is in incoming call status, since the second communication device determines that the audio output device does not receive audio data of the ringtone type, the second communication device will not send an in-band ringtone to the audio output device. Therefore, the second communication device will not initiate the establishment of a second audio channel with the audio output device, thereby avoiding interference with the first audio channel.

[0222] After the audio output device determines that the first audio channel between itself and the first communication device is disconnected, the audio output device can set the type of receivable audio stream in the audio output device to audio data of the receivable ringtone type.

[0223] Optionally, after the audio output device determines that the type of receivable audio stream will be changed to receive ringtone type audio data, the audio output device sends a third message to the second communication device. The third message is used to notify the second communication device that the audio output device can receive ringtone type audio data.

[0224] The method for sending the third message is the same as the method for sending the first message described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0225] Accordingly, the second communication device receives third information from the audio output device. Based on the third information, the second communication device can determine that the audio output device can receive audio data of the ringtone type.

[0226] In addition, this application embodiment also provides an audio control scheme, which specifically includes: after the audio output device determines that the first audio channel with the first communication device is disconnected, the audio output device can set the receivable audio stream type in the audio output device to receivable ringtone type audio data. After the second communication device establishes a communication connection with the audio output device, the second communication device can obtain the receivable audio stream type of the audio output device; when the receivable audio stream type of the audio output device is receivable ringtone type audio data, the second communication device can determine that the audio output device can receive ringtone type audio data.

[0227] It should be noted that the audio output device in this application embodiment can receive ringtone-type audio data, which can also be understood as the audio output device being allowed to receive ringtone-type audio data.

[0228] Based on this, when the second communication device receives an incoming call and is in incoming call status, since the second communication device determines that the audio output device can receive audio data of the ringtone type, the second communication device can initiate the establishment of a second audio channel with the audio output device, and the second communication device can send an in-band ringtone to the audio output device.

[0229] Since the communication connection established between the audio output device and the first communication device and the second communication device in this embodiment can be of various different types, the following description takes a Star Flash connection or a Bluetooth connection as an example.

[0230] 1. A star-flash connection is established between the audio output device and the first communication device, and a star-flash connection is established between the audio output device and the second communication device.

[0231] For the StarFlash access technology, since the audio output device carries the <<Audio Attribute Disclosure>> service and the <<Audio Stream Management>> service, the audio output device can act as an audio server; the communication device can access the <<Audio Attribute Disclosure>> service and the <<Audio Stream Management>> service, therefore the communication device can act as an audio client. In this embodiment, the audio output device can act as an audio receiver, and the communication device can act as an audio source. The <<Audio Attribute Disclosure>> service carried by the audio output device defines the audio receiver's capability attributes. Alternatively, the audio output device can also act as a call control terminal, and the communication device can also act as a call gateway.

[0232] Optionally, the definition of the sound-based ability attribute can be as shown in Table 4.

[0233] Table 4

[0234] Fields length describe Number of codecs 1 byte Number of supported codec types Codec capabilities variable Indicate the capabilities of each codec Communication methods 1 byte Indicator communication method Supported audio stream types 4 bytes Indicates the types of audio streams that can be supported. Acceptable audio stream types 4 bytes Indicates the types of audio streams that can / are currently received.

[0235] For example, the types of audio streams that the audio output device in this application embodiment can receive may include media audio, call voice, voice assistant, ringtone, etc.

[0236] In implementation, the audio receiver capability attribute can be read. Communication devices can read the audio receiver capability attribute of audio output devices, such as when a communication connection is established between the first and / or second communication devices and the audio output device. Optionally, the audio receiver capability attribute can be notified or indicated. The audio output device can notify or indicate its audio receiver capability attribute to other devices, such as the first and / or second communication devices, so that the first and / or second communication devices can obtain the audio receiver capability attribute of the audio output device, such as determining the types of audio streams that the audio output device can receive from the audio receiver capability attribute.

[0237] Based on the star-flash related technologies introduced above, the specific implementation method of indication method two will be described below.

[0238] After the audio output device establishes a first audio channel with the first communication device, the audio output device sets the receivable audio stream type in its audio receiver capability attribute to not accepting ringtone audio data. In practice, the audio output device can set ringtones to be unacceptable in the receivable audio stream type field of its audio receiver capability attribute; for example, the audio output device can set the bit corresponding to the ringtone in the field corresponding to the receivable audio stream type to 0, indicating that the audio output device does not accept ringtone audio data.

[0239] As one possible implementation, if the audio output device's audio receiver capability attribute supports notification or indication, after the audio output device modifies the receivable audio stream type in the audio receiver capability attribute to not receiving ringtone type audio data, the audio output device sends a first message to the second communication device to notify the second communication device that the audio output device does not receive ringtone type audio data.

[0240] Optionally, the audio output device may send the first information to the second communication device when it determines that the ringtone mode of the second communication device is an in-band ringtone mode.

[0241] In practice, the audio output device can send the first information to the second communication device in the following ways: the audio output device sends the first information to the second communication device through a Star-Flash connection; for example, after the audio output device modifies the receivable audio stream type in its audio reception capability attribute to not receiving ringtone type audio data, and a Star-Flash connection has been established between the second communication device and the audio output device, the audio output device sends the first information to the second communication device based on the Star-Flash connection.

[0242] Alternatively, the audio output device may send the first information to the second communication device by broadcasting; for example, after the audio output device modifies the receivable audio stream type in its audio reception capability attribute to not receiving ringtone type audio data, the audio output device sends a broadcast message, which may carry the first information.

[0243] As another possible implementation, if the audio output device's receiver capability attribute supports reading, after establishing a first audio channel between the audio output device and the first communication device, the audio output device sets the receivable audio stream type in its receiver capability attribute to not accepting ringtone-type audio data. Since the audio output device's receiver capability attribute supports reading, after establishing a communication connection with the audio output device, the second communication device can read the receivable audio stream type in the audio output device's receiver capability attribute; when the audio output device's receivable audio stream type is not accepting ringtone-type audio data, the second communication device can determine that the audio output device does not accept ringtone-type audio data.

[0244] After the audio output device determines that the first audio channel with the first communication device is disconnected, the audio output device sets the receivable audio stream type in its audio receiver capability attribute to receivable ringtone audio data. In practice, the audio output device can set the ringtone to receivable in the receivable audio stream type in its audio receiver capability attribute; for example, the audio output device can set the bit corresponding to the ringtone in the field corresponding to the receivable audio stream type to 1, indicating that the audio output device can receive ringtone audio data.

[0245] The disconnection of the first audio channel between the audio output device and the first communication device can be: the first audio channel between the audio output device and the first communication device is disconnected after the call on the first communication device ends; or, the first audio channel between the audio output device and the first communication device is disconnected after the user rejects the incoming call received by the first communication device while the audio output device is playing the in-band ringtone.

[0246] As one possible implementation, if the audio output device's audio receiver capability attribute supports notification or indication, after modifying the receivable audio stream type in the audio receiver capability attribute to receivable ringtone type audio data, the audio output device sends a third message to the second communication device to notify the second communication device that the audio output device can receive ringtone type audio data.

[0247] In practice, the audio output device can send the third information to the second communication device in the following ways: the audio output device sends the third information to the second communication device through a Star-Flash connection; for example, after the audio output device modifies the receivable audio stream type in its audio reception capability attribute to receivable ringtone type audio data, and a Star-Flash connection has been established between the second communication device and the audio output device, the audio output device sends the third information to the second communication device based on the Star-Flash connection.

[0248] Alternatively, the audio output device can send the third information to the second communication device by broadcasting; for example, after the audio output device changes the type of audio stream that can be received in its audio reception capability attributes to audio data of the type of ringtone that can be received, the audio output device sends a broadcast message, which may carry the third information.

[0249] As another possible implementation, if the audio output device's audio stream capability attribute supports reading, after the first audio channel between the audio output device and the first communication device is disconnected, the audio output device sets the receivable audio stream type in its audio stream capability attribute to receivable ringtone type audio data. Since the audio output device's audio stream capability attribute supports reading, after the second communication device establishes a communication connection with the audio output device, the second communication device can read the receivable audio stream type in the audio output device's audio stream capability attribute; when the receivable audio stream type of the audio output device is receivable ringtone type audio data, the second communication device can determine that the audio output device can receive ringtone type audio data.

[0250] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figure 7 This section introduces the audio control scheme when using indication method two. It uses the example of the audio output device modifying the receivable audio stream type in its audio receiver capability attributes and then notifying the second communication device. It is understandable that... Figure 7 The steps and execution order illustrated are merely examples. In actual implementation, some of the steps may be executed, or the remaining steps may also be executed. Similarly, the execution order of the steps may also be adjusted, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0251] Steps 700 to 702 can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 5Steps 500 to 502 in the previous section will not be repeated here.

[0252] Step 703: The audio output device sets the receivable audio stream type in the audio reception capability attribute to not receive ringtone type audio data.

[0253] It should be noted that the method for setting the acceptable audio stream type in the audio output device's audio reception capability properties to not receive ringtone type audio data can be found in the introduction above.

[0254] Step 704: The audio output device sends a first message to the second communication device, the first message being used to notify the second communication device that the audio output device does not receive ringtone type audio data.

[0255] Correspondingly, the second communication device receives the first information sent by the audio output device.

[0256] It should be noted that the order in which steps 703 and 704 are executed is not limited. The order in which steps 701, 703, and 704 are executed is also not limited; for example, step 701 can be executed after step 704.

[0257] Steps 705 to 707 can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 5 Steps 505 to 507 in the previous section will not be repeated here.

[0258] Step 708: After the audio output device determines that the first audio channel with the first communication device is disconnected, the audio output device sets the receivable audio stream type in the audio receiver capability attribute to receivable ringtone type audio data.

[0259] It should be noted that the method for setting the receiveable audio stream type in the audio output device's audio reception capability properties to receive ringtone type audio data can be found in the introduction above.

[0260] Step 709: The audio output device sends the third information to the second communication device.

[0261] The third piece of information is used to notify the second communication device that the audio output device can receive audio data of the ringtone type.

[0262] Correspondingly, the second communication device receives third information from the audio output device.

[0263] 2. A Bluetooth connection is established between the audio output device and the first communication device, and a Bluetooth connection is established between the audio output device and the second communication device.

[0264] For Bluetooth Low Energy access technology, the basic audio profile (BAP) defines communication devices as unicast clients and audio output devices as unicast servers. The audio output device can host a published audio capabilities service (PACS), which defines available audio contexts. These available audio contexts can include fields corresponding to the types of audio streams that can be received; for example, the field corresponding to the types of audio streams received in the available audio context could be the Available_Sink_Context field.

[0265] In implementation, the allowed audio context can be read. Communication devices can read the allowed audio context of the audio output device, such as when a communication connection is established between the first and / or second communication devices and the audio output device. Optionally, the allowed audio context can be notified or indicated. The audio output device can notify or indicate the allowed audio context to other devices, such as the first and / or second communication devices, so that the first and / or second communication devices can obtain the allowed audio context of the audio output device, such as determining the type of audio stream that the audio output device can receive from the allowed audio context.

[0266] Based on the Bluetooth Low Energy access technology described above, the specific implementation method of indication method two will be introduced below.

[0267] When a first audio channel is established between the audio output device and the first communication device, the audio output device sets the receptive audio stream type in the allowed audio context of the published audio capability service to not receive ringtone-type audio data. In practice, the audio output device can set the receptive audio stream type in the allowed audio context of the published audio capability service to be unreceptable; for example, the audio output device can set the bit position corresponding to the ringtone in the Available_Sink_Context field of the allowed audio context of the published audio capability service to 0, indicating that the audio output device does not receive ringtone-type audio data.

[0268] As one possible implementation, if the audio output device's permitted audio context supports notification or indication, after modifying the receivable audio stream type in the permitted audio context to not receive ringtone type audio data, the audio output device sends a first message to the second communication device to notify the second communication device that the audio output device does not receive ringtone type audio data.

[0269] Optionally, the audio output device may send the first information to the second communication device when it determines that the ringtone mode of the second communication device is an in-band ringtone mode.

[0270] In practice, the audio output device may send the first information to the second communication device via a Bluetooth connection. For example, after modifying the type of audio stream that can be received in the allowed audio context to not receive ringtone type audio data, and a Bluetooth connection has been established between the second communication device and the audio output device, the audio output device may send the first information to the second communication device based on the Bluetooth connection.

[0271] Alternatively, the audio output device may send the first information to the second communication device by broadcasting; for example, after modifying the type of audio stream that can be received in the allowed audio context to not receive ringtone type audio data, the audio output device may send a broadcast message, which may carry the first information.

[0272] As another possible implementation, if the audio output device's allowed audio context supports reading, after establishing a first audio channel with the first communication device, the audio output device sets the receivable audio stream type in the allowed audio context to not receive ringtone type audio data. Since the audio output device's allowed audio context supports reading, after the second communication device establishes a communication connection with the audio output device, the second communication device can read the receivable audio stream type in the audio output device's allowed audio context; when the audio output device's receivable audio stream type is not ringtone type audio data, the second communication device can determine that the audio output device does not receive ringtone type audio data.

[0273] After the audio output device determines that the first audio channel with the first communication device is disconnected, the audio output device sets the receptive audio stream type in the allowed audio context of the published audio capability service to receptive ringtone type audio data. In practice, the audio output device can set the receptive audio stream type in the allowed audio context of the published audio capability service to be receptive; for example, the audio output device can set the bit position corresponding to the ringtone in the Available_Sink_Context field of the allowed audio context of the published audio capability service to 1, indicating that the audio output device can receive ringtone type audio data.

[0274] The disconnection of the first audio channel between the audio output device and the first communication device can be: the first audio channel between the audio output device and the first communication device is disconnected after the call on the first communication device ends; or, the first audio channel between the audio output device and the first communication device is disconnected after the user rejects the incoming call received by the first communication device while the audio output device is playing the in-band ringtone.

[0275] As one possible implementation, if the permitted audio context of the audio output device supports notification or indication, after modifying the receivable audio stream type in the permitted audio context to receivable ringtone type audio data, the audio output device sends a third message to the second communication device to notify the second communication device that the audio output device can receive ringtone type audio data.

[0276] In practice, the audio output device can send the third information to the second communication device in the following ways: the audio output device sends the third information to the second communication device through a Bluetooth connection; for example, after the audio output device modifies the type of audio stream that can be received in the allowed audio context to audio data of the type of ringtone that can be received, and a Bluetooth connection has been established between the second communication device and the audio output device, the audio output device sends the third information to the second communication device based on the Bluetooth connection.

[0277] Alternatively, the audio output device may send the third information to the second communication device by broadcasting; for example, after modifying the type of audio stream that can be received in the allowed audio context to audio data of the type of ringtone, the audio output device may send a broadcast message, which may carry the third information.

[0278] As another possible implementation, if the audio output device's allowed audio context supports reading, after the first audio channel between the audio output device and the first communication device is disconnected, the audio output device sets the receivable audio stream type in the allowed audio context to be receivable ringtone type audio data. Since the audio output device's allowed audio context supports reading, after the second communication device establishes a communication connection with the audio output device, the second communication device can read the receivable audio stream type in the audio output device's allowed audio context; when the receivable audio stream type of the audio output device is receivable ringtone type audio data, the second communication device can determine that the audio output device can receive ringtone type audio data.

[0279] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figure 8 This section introduces the audio control scheme when using indication method two. It uses the example of the audio output device modifying the allowed audio uplink and downlink and then notifying the second communication device. It is understandable that... Figure 8 The steps and execution order illustrated are merely examples. In actual implementation, some of the steps may be executed, or the remaining steps may also be executed. Similarly, the execution order of the steps may also be adjusted, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0280] Steps 800 to 801 can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 6 Steps 600 to 601 and step 802 can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 5 Step 502 in the previous section will not be repeated here.

[0281] Step 803: The audio output device sets the receivable audio stream type in the allowed audio context of the published audio capability service to not receive ringtone type audio data.

[0282] It should be noted that the method for setting the audio output device to not receive ringtone type audio data in the allowed audio context of the published audio capability service can be found in the introduction above.

[0283] Step 804 can be found here. Figure 7 Steps 704, 805-807 can be found in [the original text]. Figure 5 Steps 505 to 507 in the previous section will not be repeated here.

[0284] It should be noted that the execution order between steps 803 and 804 is not limited. The execution order between steps 801 and steps 803 and 804 is not limited; for example, step 801 can be executed after step 804.

[0285] Step 808: After the audio output device determines that the first audio channel with the first communication device is disconnected, the audio output device sets the receivable audio stream type in the allowed audio context of the published audio capability service to receivable ringtone type audio data.

[0286] It should be noted that the method for setting the receivable audio stream type in the published audio capability service to accept ringtone type audio data in the audio output device settings can be found in the introduction above.

[0287] Step 809 can be found here. Figure 7 Step 709 in the process.

[0288] Instruction Method 3: The first message instructs the second communication device not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device. Specifically, the first message notifies the second communication device that the audio output device has established an audio channel.

[0289] In this third indication method, when the audio output device and the first communication device have established a first audio channel, the audio output device can set the audio channel establishment status to "established audio channel".

[0290] Optionally, when the audio output device and the first communication device have established a first audio channel, and the audio output device determines that the second communication device has enabled the in-band ringtone mode, the audio output device sends a first message to the second communication device to notify the second communication device that the audio output device has established an audio channel.

[0291] Accordingly, the second communication device receives the first information from the audio output device. Based on the first information, the second communication device can determine that the audio output device has established an audio channel.

[0292] For example, the first information could be an AT+BIND (Bluetooth HF indicators feature) request; or the audio output device could send an AT+BIND request to the second communication device, carrying the first information through AT+BIND.

[0293] After the second communication device determines that the audio output device has established an audio channel, the second communication device can send a fourth message to the audio output device. The fourth message is used to instruct the in-band ringtone mode to be turned off. Correspondingly, the audio output device receives the fourth message from the second communication device.

[0294] For example, the fourth information can be +BSIR signaling; or the second communication device can send +BSIR signaling to the audio output device, carrying the fourth information through +BSIR signaling.

[0295] Based on this, when the second communication device receives an incoming call and is in incoming call status, since the second communication device determines that the audio output device has established an audio channel based on the first information sent by the audio output device, the second communication device will not initiate the establishment of a second audio channel with the audio output device, thereby avoiding interference with the first audio channel.

[0296] After the audio output device determines that the first audio channel between itself and the first communication device is disconnected, the audio output device can set the audio channel establishment status to "no audio channel established".

[0297] Optionally, the audio output device sends a fifth message to the second communication device, which is used to notify the second communication device that the audio output device has not established an audio channel.

[0298] Accordingly, the second communication device receives the fifth message from the audio output device. Based on the fifth message, the second communication device can determine that the audio output device has not established an audio channel.

[0299] After determining that the audio output device has not established an audio channel, the second communication device can send a sixth message to the audio output device. This sixth message indicates that the in-band ringtone mode should be enabled. Correspondingly, the audio output device receives the sixth message from the second communication device.

[0300] For example, the sixth information can be +BSIR signaling; or the second communication device can send +BSIR signaling to the audio output device, carrying the sixth information through +BSIR signaling.

[0301] Based on this, when the second communication device receives an incoming call and is in incoming call status, since the second communication device determines that the audio output device has not established an audio channel according to the fifth information sent by the audio output device, the second communication device can initiate the establishment of a second audio channel with the audio output device, and the second communication device can send an in-band ringtone to the audio output device.

[0302] Based on this instruction method three, a Bluetooth connection is established between the audio output device and the first communication device, and a Bluetooth connection is established between the audio output device and the second communication device.

[0303] For the Bluetooth hands-free configuration specification of classic Bluetooth access technology, the communication device can be referred to as AG, and the audio output device can be referred to as HF. The hands-free indicator information (HF indicators) in the audio output device can include a field corresponding to the audio channel establishment status. For example, a field corresponding to the audio channel establishment status can be added to the hands-free indicator information in the audio output device.

[0304] The following describes the specific implementation method of instruction method three.

[0305] When a first audio channel is established between the audio output device and the first communication device, the audio output device sets the audio channel establishment status in the hands-free indication information to "established audio channel". For example, the audio output device sets the field corresponding to the audio channel establishment status in the hands-free indication information to 1, indicating that the audio output device has established an audio channel.

[0306] When the audio output device determines that the ringtone mode of the second communication device is in-band ringtone mode, the audio output device sends a first message to the second communication device to notify it that an audio channel has been established. After the second communication device confirms that an audio channel has been established, it can send a fourth message to the audio output device, which instructs it to disable the in-band ringtone mode. Correspondingly, the audio output device receives the fourth message from the second communication device.

[0307] After the audio output device determines that the first audio channel with the first communication device has been disconnected, the audio output device sets the audio channel establishment status in the hands-free indication information to "audio channel not established". For example, the audio output device sets the field corresponding to the audio channel establishment status in the hands-free indication information to 0, indicating that the audio output device has not established an audio channel.

[0308] Optionally, the audio output device sends a fifth message to the second communication device to notify the second communication device that an audio channel has not been established. After determining that the audio output device has not established an audio channel, the second communication device may send a sixth message to the audio output device, which instructs that the in-band ringtone mode be enabled. Accordingly, the audio output device receives the sixth message from the second communication device.

[0309] The disconnection of the first audio channel between the audio output device and the first communication device can be: the first audio channel between the audio output device and the first communication device is disconnected after the call on the first communication device ends; or, the first audio channel between the audio output device and the first communication device is disconnected after the user rejects the incoming call received by the first communication device while the audio output device is playing the in-band ringtone.

[0310] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figure 9 This section introduces the audio control scheme when using indicator method three. It is understandable that... Figure 9 The steps and execution order illustrated are merely examples. In actual implementation, some of the steps may be executed, or the remaining steps may also be executed. Similarly, the execution order of the steps may also be adjusted, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0311] Steps 900 to 901 can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 6Steps 600 to 601 and step 902 can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 5 Step 502 in the previous section will not be repeated here.

[0312] Step 903: The audio output device sets the audio channel establishment status to established audio channel.

[0313] It should be noted that the method for setting the audio output device's audio channel establishment status to "established audio channel" can be found in the description above.

[0314] Step 904: The audio output device sends a first message to the second communication device, the first message being used to notify the second communication device that the audio output device has established an audio channel.

[0315] Correspondingly, the second communication device receives the first information sent by the audio output device.

[0316] Step 905: The second communication device sends the fourth information to the audio output device.

[0317] The fourth piece of information is used to indicate that the in-band ringtone mode is turned off.

[0318] Correspondingly, the audio output device receives the fourth information from the audio output device.

[0319] Steps 906 to 908 can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 5 Steps 505 to 507 in the previous section will not be repeated here.

[0320] Step 909: After the audio output device determines that the first audio channel with the first communication device is disconnected, the audio output device sets the audio channel establishment status to "no audio channel established".

[0321] It should be noted that the method for setting the audio output device's audio channel establishment status to "no audio channel established" can be found in the description above.

[0322] Step 910: The audio output device sends a fifth message to the second communication device, which is used to notify the second communication device that the audio output device has not established an audio channel.

[0323] Correspondingly, the second communication device receives the fifth message sent by the audio output device.

[0324] Step 911: The second communication device sends the sixth message to the audio output device.

[0325] The sixth piece of information is used to indicate the activation of the in-band ringtone mode.

[0326] Correspondingly, the audio output device receives the sixth information from the audio output device.

[0327] Figure 10 A possible exemplary block diagram of the communication device involved in an embodiment of this application is shown. For example... Figure 10 As shown, the communication device 1000 may include modules or units for implementing the methods described in the embodiments above. In one possible design, the communication device 1000 includes a processing unit 1001 and a communication unit 1002. Optionally, the communication device 1000 may further include a storage unit 1003 for storing device program code and / or data.

[0328] The communication device 1000 can be a first node-side device in the above embodiments, such as a first node, a module in the first node (e.g., a circuit, a chip or chip system, etc.), or a logic node, logic module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the first node.

[0329] For example, in one embodiment, the communication unit 1002 is used to send first information to the second communication device after the audio output device establishes a first audio channel with the first communication device. The first information is used to instruct the second communication device not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device. The processing unit 1001 can be used to generate the first information and control the communication unit 1002 to send the first information.

[0330] In one possible implementation, the second communication device is instructed not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device, specifically by instructing the second communication device to turn off the in-band ringtone mode.

[0331] In one possible implementation, the communication unit 1002 is used to send second information to the second communication device after determining that the first audio channel is disconnected. The second information is used to instruct the second communication device to enable the in-band ringtone mode.

[0332] In one possible implementation, the second communication device is instructed not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device, specifically by notifying the second communication device that the audio output device does not receive ringtone-type audio data.

[0333] In one possible implementation, the processing unit 1001 is configured to set the receivable audio stream type in the audio output device to not receive audio data of the ringtone type.

[0334] In one possible implementation, the processing unit 1001 is configured to set the receivable audio stream type in the audio output device to receivable ringtone type audio data after determining that the first audio channel is disconnected; the communication unit 1002 is configured to send third information to the second communication device, the third information being used to notify the second communication device that the audio output device can receive ringtone type audio data.

[0335] In one possible implementation, instructing the second communication device not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device specifically involves notifying the second communication device that the audio output device has established an audio channel.

[0336] In one possible implementation, the communication unit 1002 is used to receive fourth information from the second communication device, the fourth information being used to indicate that the in-band ringtone mode is turned off.

[0337] In one possible implementation, the processing unit 1001 is used to set the audio channel establishment status in the audio output device to an established audio channel.

[0338] In one possible implementation, the processing unit 1001 is configured to set the audio channel establishment status of the audio output device to "no audio channel established" after determining that the first audio channel is disconnected; the communication unit 1002 is configured to send a fifth message to the second communication device, the fifth message being used to notify the second communication device that the audio output device has not established an audio channel; and to receive a sixth message from the second communication device, the sixth message being used to indicate that the in-band ringtone mode is enabled.

[0339] In one possible implementation, the second audio channel is used to transmit in-band ringtones or voice messages sent by the second communication device to the audio output device;

[0340] In one possible implementation, the communication unit 1002 is used to receive incoming call indication information from the second communication device and play a local ringtone.

[0341] For example, in one embodiment, the communication unit 1002 is configured to receive first information from an audio output device, the first information being used to instruct a second communication device not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device, wherein the audio output device is a device that establishes a first audio channel with the first communication device; and, when the second communication device is in an incoming call state, to send incoming call indication information to the audio output device. The processing unit 1001 can be configured to generate incoming call indication information and control the communication unit 1002 to receive the first information and send the incoming call indication information.

[0342] In one possible implementation, the second communication device is instructed not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device, specifically by instructing the second communication device to turn off the in-band ringtone mode.

[0343] In one possible implementation, the processing unit 1001 is used to set the ringtone mode of the second communication device to an in-band ringtone mode.

[0344] In one possible implementation, the communication unit 1002 is used to receive second information from the audio output device after the first audio channel is disconnected, the second information being used to instruct the second communication device to enable in-band ringtone mode; the processing unit 1001 is used to set the ringtone mode of the second communication device to in-band ringtone mode.

[0345] In one possible implementation, the second communication device is instructed not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device, specifically by notifying the second communication device that the audio output device does not receive ringtone-type audio data.

[0346] In one possible implementation, the communication unit 1002 is configured to receive third information from the audio output device after the first audio channel is disconnected. The third information is used to notify the second communication device that the audio output device can receive audio data of the ringtone type.

[0347] In one possible implementation, instructing the second communication device not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device specifically involves notifying the second communication device that the audio output device has established an audio channel.

[0348] In one possible implementation, the communication unit 1002 is used to send a fourth message to the audio output device, the fourth message being used to indicate that the in-band ringtone mode is turned off.

[0349] In one possible implementation, the communication unit 1002 is configured to receive a fifth message from the audio output device after the first audio channel is disconnected, the fifth message being used to notify the second communication device that the audio output device has not established an audio channel; and to send a sixth message to the audio output device, the sixth message being used to indicate that the in-band ringtone mode is enabled.

[0350] For example, in one embodiment, the processing unit 1001 is configured to, after the audio output device establishes a first audio channel with the first communication device, set the receivable audio stream type in the audio output device to not receive ringtone type audio data. The communication unit 1002 can send and receive data or signaling under the control of the processing unit 1001.

[0351] In one possible implementation, the processing unit 1001 is configured to, after determining that the first audio channel is disconnected, set the type of the receivable audio stream in the audio output device to audio data of the receivable ringtone type.

[0352] It is understood that the division of units in the above-described device is merely a logical functional division. One function can correspond to one functional unit, or two or more functions can be integrated into one functional unit. In actual implementation, all or some units can be integrated onto a single physical entity, or distributed across different physical entities. Furthermore, the aforementioned functional units can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of both. Whether a function is executed in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for specific applications, but such implementations should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0353] In one example, the functional unit in any of the above devices may be one or more integrated circuits configured to implement the above methods, such as: one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or one or more central processing units (CPUs), one or more microcontroller units (MCUs), one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), or one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or a combination of at least two of these integrated circuit forms.

[0354] In one example, storage unit 1003 may include random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory or electrically erasable programmable memory and / or registers, etc.

[0355] Figure 11 A possible exemplary block diagram of the communication device involved in the embodiments of this application is shown. Figure 11 The communication device 1100 shown includes a processor 1110 and an interface circuit 1120. The processor 1110 and the interface circuit 1120 are coupled to each other. It is understood that the interface circuit 1120 can be a transceiver or an input / output interface. Optionally, the communication device 1100 may also include a memory 1130 for storing instructions executed by the processor 1110, or storing input data required for the processor 1110 to execute instructions, or storing data generated after the processor 1110 executes instructions.

[0356] When the communication device 1100 is used to implement the above method embodiment, the processor 1110 is used to implement the function of the processing unit 1001, and the interface circuit 1120 is used to implement the function of the communication unit 1002.

[0357] It is understood that the processor in the embodiments of this application can be a CPU, or other general-purpose processors, DSPs, ASICs, FPGAs, or other programmable logic devices, transistor logic devices, hardware components, or any combination thereof. A general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0358] The method steps in the embodiments of this application can be implemented in hardware or by a processor executing software instructions. The software instructions can consist of corresponding software modules, which can be stored in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, erasable programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory, registers, hard disk, portable hard disk, compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), or any other form of storage medium well known in the art. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to a processor, enabling the processor to read information from and write information to the storage medium. Of course, the storage medium can also be a component of the processor. The processor and storage medium can reside in an ASIC. Additionally, the ASIC can reside in an audio output device or communication device (such as the first or second communication device mentioned above). Alternatively, the processor and storage medium can exist as discrete components in the audio output device or communication device (such as the first or second communication device mentioned above).

[0359] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program or instructions for implementing the method executed by an audio output device or a second communication device in the above-described method embodiments.

[0360] For example, when the computer program or instructions are executed by the computer, the computer can implement the method performed by the audio output device or the second communication device in the above method embodiments.

[0361] This application also provides a computer program product containing a computer program or instructions, which, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to implement the method performed by the audio output device or the second communication device in the above method embodiments.

[0362] This application also provides a communication system, which includes the audio output device, the first communication device, and the second communication device described in the above embodiments.

[0363] This application also provides a chip device, including a processor, for calling computer programs or computer instructions stored in the memory to cause the processor to execute the method provided in any of the above embodiments.

[0364] In one possible implementation, the input of the chip device corresponds to the receiving operation in any of the above embodiments, and the output of the chip device corresponds to the sending operation in any of the above embodiments.

[0365] Optionally, the processor is coupled to the memory via an interface.

[0366] Optionally, the chip device may also include a memory in which computer programs or instructions are stored.

[0367] The processor mentioned above can be a general-purpose central processing unit, a microprocessor, an ASIC, or one or more integrated circuits used to control the execution of a program that controls the methods provided in any of the above embodiments. The memory mentioned above can be read-only memory (ROM) or other types of static storage devices capable of storing static information and instructions, such as random access memory (RAM).

[0368] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved entirely or partially through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, it can be implemented entirely or partially in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer programs or instructions. A computer program is a set of instructions that directs each step of an action of an electronic computer or other device with message processing capabilities. It is typically written in a programming language and runs on a target architecture. When the computer program or instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are performed, in whole or in part. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer program or instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transferred from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer program or instructions can be transferred from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired or wireless means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium accessible to a computer or a data storage device such as a server or data center integrating one or more available media. The available medium can be a magnetic medium, such as a floppy disk, hard disk, or magnetic tape; it can also be an optical medium, such as a digital video optical disc; or it can be a semiconductor medium, such as a solid-state drive. The computer-readable storage medium can be volatile or non-volatile, or it can include both types of storage media.

[0369] Those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of this application can be provided as methods, systems, or computer program products. Therefore, this application can take the form of a completely hardware embodiment, a completely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, this application can take the form of a computer program product embodied on one or more computer-usable storage media (including, but not limited to, disk storage, optical storage, etc.) containing computer-usable program code.

[0370] This application is described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to this application. It should be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, embedded processor, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, generate instructions for implementing the flowchart illustrations. Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1A device that provides the functions specified in one or more boxes.

[0371] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing device to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable storage medium produce an article of manufacture including instruction means, which are implemented in a process Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The function specified in one or more boxes.

[0372] These computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing equipment to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable equipment to produce a computer-implemented process, thereby providing instructions that execute on the computer or other programmable equipment for implementing the process. Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The steps of the function specified in one or more boxes.

[0373] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this application without departing from the scope of this application. Therefore, if such modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this application also intends to include such modifications and variations.

Claims

1. An audio control method, characterized in that, The method includes: After the audio output device establishes a first audio channel with the first communication device, it sends a first message to the second communication device. The first message is used to instruct the second communication device not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device.

2. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The instruction to the second communication device not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device specifically means instructing the second communication device to turn off the in-band ringtone mode.

3. The method as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: After determining that the first audio channel is disconnected, a second message is sent to the second communication device, the second message being used to instruct the second communication device to enable in-band ringtone mode.

4. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The instruction to the second communication device not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device specifically means: notifying the second communication device that the audio output device does not receive ringtone-type audio data.

5. The method as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: Set the receivable audio stream type in the audio output device to not receive ringtone type audio data.

6. The method as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The method further includes: After determining that the first audio channel is disconnected, the receivable audio stream type in the audio output device is set to receivable ringtone type audio data; Send a third message to the second communication device, the third message being used to notify the second communication device that the audio output device can receive audio data of the ringtone type.

7. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The instruction that the second communication device does not establish a second audio channel with the audio output device specifically means: notifying the second communication device that the audio output device has established an audio channel.

8. The method as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive a fourth message from the second communication device, the fourth message being used to indicate that the in-band ringtone mode is turned off.

9. The method as described in claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, The method further includes: Set the audio channel establishment status of the audio output device to "established audio channel".

10. The method as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The method further includes: After determining that the first audio channel is disconnected, the audio channel establishment status in the audio output device is set to "no audio channel established". Send a fifth message to the second communication device, the fifth message being used to notify the second communication device that the audio output device has not established an audio channel; The sixth message is received from the second communication device, the sixth message being used to indicate the activation of the in-band ringtone mode.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1, 2, 4, 5, 7-9, characterized in that, The second audio channel is used to transmit in-band ringtones or call voice messages sent by the second communication device to the audio output device; The method further includes: Receive incoming call notification information from the second communication device and play a local ringtone.

12. An audio control method, characterized in that, The method includes: Receive first information from an audio output device, the first information being used to instruct the second communication device not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device, wherein the audio output device is the device that establishes a first audio channel with the first communication device; When the second communication device is in incoming call status, it sends incoming call indication information to the audio output device.

13. The method as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The instruction to the second communication device not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device specifically means instructing the second communication device to turn off the in-band ringtone mode.

14. The method as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The method further includes: Set the ringtone mode of the second communication device to non-in-band ringtone mode.

15. The method as described in claim 14, characterized in that, The method further includes: After the first audio channel is disconnected, a second message is received from the audio output device, the second message being used to instruct the second communication device to enable in-band ringtone mode; Set the ringtone mode of the second communication device to in-band ringtone mode.

16. The method as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The instruction to the second communication device not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device specifically means: notifying the second communication device that the audio output device does not receive ringtone-type audio data.

17. The method as described in claim 16, characterized in that, The method further includes: After the first audio channel is disconnected, a third message is received from the audio output device, which is used to notify the second communication device that the audio output device can receive ringtone-type audio data.

18. The method as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The instruction to the second communication device not to establish a second audio channel with the audio output device specifically means: notifying the second communication device that the audio output device has established an audio channel.

19. The method as described in claim 18, characterized in that, The method further includes: A fourth message is sent to the audio output device, the fourth message being used to instruct the in-band ringtone mode to be turned off.

20. The method as described in claim 18 or 19, characterized in that, The method further includes: After the first audio channel is disconnected, a fifth message is received from the audio output device, which is used to notify the second communication device that the audio output device has not established an audio channel; A sixth message is sent to the audio output device, the sixth message being used to indicate that the in-band ringtone mode is enabled.

21. An audio control method, characterized in that, The method includes: After the audio output device establishes a first audio channel with the first communication device, the receivable audio stream type in the audio output device is set to not receive ringtone type audio data.

22. The method as described in claim 21, characterized in that, The method further includes: After determining that the first audio channel is disconnected, the receivable audio stream type in the audio output device is set to receivable ringtone type audio data.

23. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes a module for performing the method of any one of claims 1 to 11, or the method of any one of claims 12 to 20, or the method of claim 21 or 22.

24. A communication device, characterized in that, It includes a processor and an interface circuit, the processor being configured to communicate with other devices via the interface circuit to implement the method of any one of claims 1 to 11, or the method of any one of claims 12 to 20, or the method of claim 21 or 22.

25. A computer program product, characterized in that, The computer program product includes a computer program or instructions that, when executed, implement the method of any one of claims 1 to 11, or the method of any one of claims 12 to 20, or the method of claim 21 or 22.

26. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The storage medium stores a computer program or instructions, which, when executed, implement the method of any one of claims 1 to 11, or the method of any one of claims 12 to 20, or the method of claim 21 or 22.

27. A communication system, characterized in that, include: An audio output device for implementing the method of any one of claims 1 to 11, 21, and 22, and a second communication device for implementing the method of any one of claims 12 to 20.

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