Electronic device for bluetooth source switching and operating method thereof

Abstract

An electronic device and an operating method are provided. The method includes connecting with a sink device based on a Bluetooth communication protocol, obtaining a source device list from the sink device, the source device list including information about one or more source devices that the sink device has connected with, selecting a target source device from among the one or more source devices included in the source device list, and transmitting information associated with the target source device to the sink device, the information associated with the target source device indicating to the sink device to perform a connection operation with the target source device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments of this disclosure relate to an electronic device and a method of operating the same, and more specifically, to an electronic device that facilitates source switching in Bluetooth communication and a method of operating the electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] In order for a Bluetooth destination device to receive and send data from a Bluetooth source device, the Bluetooth destination device needs to communicate with the Bluetooth source device through pairing and connection operations. For a Bluetooth destination device to connect to a Bluetooth source device to output data and then switch to another Bluetooth source device, the Bluetooth destination device needs to perform a process of searching for and connecting to the new Bluetooth source device. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Solution to the problem

[0004] Embodiments of this disclosure provide an electronic device that facilitates switching of Bluetooth source devices and a method for operating the electronic device.

[0005] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the electronic device may include: a communication interface, a memory storing one or more instructions, and at least one processor. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, one or more instructions, when executed individually and / or jointly by at least one processor, cause the electronic device to connect to a destination device based on the Bluetooth communication protocol. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, one or more instructions, when executed individually and / or jointly by at least one processor, cause the electronic device to obtain a list of source devices from the destination device, the list including information associated with one or more source devices already connected to the destination device. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, when one or more instructions are executed individually and / or jointly by at least one processor, the electronic device selects a target source device from one or more source devices included in the list of source devices. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, when one or more instructions are executed individually and / or jointly by at least one processor, the electronic device sends information associated with the target source device to the destination device, the information associated with the target source device instructing the destination device to perform a connection operation with the target source device.

[0006] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a method of operating an electronic device may include: connecting to a destination device based on a Bluetooth communication protocol. According to embodiments of this disclosure, the method of operating an electronic device may include: obtaining a list of source devices from the destination device, the list including information about one or more source devices already connected to the destination device. According to embodiments of this disclosure, the method of operating an electronic device may include: selecting a target source device from one or more source devices included in the source device list. According to embodiments of this disclosure, the method of operating an electronic device may include: sending information associated with the target source device to the destination device, the information associated with the target source device instructing the destination device to perform a connection operation with the target source device.

[0007] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium may have at least one instruction recorded thereon, which, when executed by at least one processor of an electronic device, causes the electronic device to: connect to a destination device based on a Bluetooth communication protocol; obtain a list of source devices from the destination device, the list of source devices including information associated with one or more source devices already connected to the destination device; select a target source device from the one or more source devices included in the list of source devices; and send information associated with the target source device to the destination device, the information associated with the target source device instructing the destination device to perform a connection operation with the target source device. Attached Figure Description

[0008] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of embodiments of this disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings.

[0009] Figure 1 This is a diagram of a system for switching connected source devices according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, based on a Bluetooth communication protocol.

[0010] Figure 2 This is a diagram of a system including an electronic device, a receiving device, and a target source device according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 3 This is a block diagram of a receiver device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 4 This is a block diagram of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of the process of operating the source device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of the process of operating the source device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 7This is a flowchart of a pairing operation between devices according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of the connection operation between paired devices according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 9 This is an example of a list of source devices according to embodiments of this disclosure.

[0018] Figure 10 This is an example of a list of source devices according to embodiments of this disclosure.

[0019] Figure 11 This is a flowchart of the process of operating the source device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 12 This is an exemplary graphical user interface for allowing source device switching according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 13 It is used to illustrate embodiments according to this disclosure. Figure 11 A diagram illustrating an example of the operation.

[0022] Figure 14 This is a flowchart of the process of operating the source device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 15 It is used to illustrate embodiments according to this disclosure. Figure 14 A diagram illustrating an exemplary implementation of the operation shown.

[0024] Figure 16 This is a flowchart of the process of operating the source device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 17 This is a flowchart of the process of operating the source device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 18 This is a diagram illustrating a user interface for macro settings in a source device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 19 An example of macro settings for a source device to automatically connect to a destination device, according to an embodiment of this disclosure, is shown.

[0028] Figure 20 This is a flowchart of the process of operating the source device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The terminology used herein will be briefly described, and then this disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0030] The terminology used herein is that which is currently widely used in the art in consideration of the functionality of this disclosure; however, such terminology may vary depending on the intent of a person skilled in the art, precedent, or new technology in the art. Furthermore, in some cases, there may be terms that the applicant may optionally choose, and their meanings will be described in detail in the relevant sections of this disclosure. Therefore, the terminology used herein should not be construed as simple names, but should be understood based on the meaning of the terms and the overall description of this disclosure.

[0031] Throughout this disclosure, when something is referred to as “comprising” an element, it may further include one or more other elements unless otherwise stated. Furthermore, as used herein, terms such as “unit” and “module” may refer to a unit that performs at least one function or operation, and these units may be implemented as hardware or software or a combination of hardware and software.

[0032] Throughout this disclosure, the expression "at least one of a, b, or c" indicates only a, only b, only c, both a and b, both a and c, both b and c, all of a, b, and c, or variations thereof.

[0033] Embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings to enable those skilled in the art to readily implement the embodiments of this disclosure. However, this disclosure may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Furthermore, for clarity of description, portions unrelated to the description of this disclosure will be omitted in the drawings, and the same reference numerals will denote the same elements throughout the specification.

[0034] As used herein, the term “user” can refer to a person who controls the function or operation of a computing or electronic device by using control equipment, and can include a viewer, administrator, or installer.

[0035] Figure 1 This is a reference diagram illustrating an example of a system for switching a connected source device according to a Bluetooth communication protocol, based on an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] refer to Figure 1 The system may include an electronic device 100 connected to a destination device 200 according to a Bluetooth communication protocol, a destination device 200 connected to the electronic device 100 according to a Bluetooth communication protocol, and a source device 300a. The source device 300a includes at least one source device that can switch connections to the destination device 200 according to the source device. The source device 300a may include, for example, a first source device 301, a second source device 302, and a third source device 303.

[0037] Electronic device 100 can connect to destination device 200 according to the Bluetooth communication protocol to provide data to destination device 200.

[0038] The receiving device 200 can connect to the electronic device 100 according to the Bluetooth communication protocol to receive data from the electronic device 100.

[0039] In order for electronic device 100 and destination device 200 to establish a connection according to the Bluetooth communication protocol to send / receive data, electronic device 100 and destination device 200 may need to perform pairing and connection operations. Furthermore, in order for destination device 200 and another source device to establish a connection according to the Bluetooth communication protocol to send / receive data, destination device 200 and another source device may need to perform pairing and connection operations. For example, when electronic device 100 and destination device 200 are connected and destination device 200 receives and consumes data from electronic device 100, when the user wants to switch the source device to the first source device 301, destination device 200 may need to disconnect from electronic device 100 and perform pairing and connection operations with the first source device 301. For example, suppose electronic device 100 is a television (TV), destination device 200 is headphones, and the first source device 301 is a smartphone. Then, when the user listens to audio data output from the television indoors via Bluetooth communication with the headphones and subsequently wants to go outside, the user may want to switch the source device providing the audio data from the television to the smartphone. In this scenario, even if the smartphone has a pairing history with the headphones (i.e., it has already been paired with the headphones), the user may still need to operate the smartphone again to connect the headphones in order to switch the source device from the TV to the smartphone. According to embodiments of this disclosure, a method can be provided that enables more convenient and easier switching of source devices connected according to the Bluetooth communication protocol.

[0040] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the destination device 200 may store a source device list 400, which includes information about one or more source devices that the destination device 200 has connected to according to the Bluetooth communication protocol. This list may include source devices that the destination device has previously connected to and source devices that the destination device has recently connected to. It may also include source devices that the destination device has connected to. Whenever a connection is established with a source device, the destination device 200 may include and store information about the connected source devices in the source device list 400. For example, in Figure 1 In the source device list 400, information about the first source device 301, the second source device 302, and the third source device 303 may be included.

[0041] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the receiving device 200 may provide the electronic device 100 with a source device list 400.

[0042] According to embodiments of this disclosure, when specified requirements are met, electronic device 100 can select a target source device from a source device list 400 received from destination device 200 and send information about the selected target source device to destination device 200. Destination device 200 can then use the information about the target source device to perform a connection operation with the target source device.

[0043] According to embodiments of this disclosure, when a specified event occurs, electronic device 100 can receive user input for selecting a source device from one or more source devices included in source device list 400, determine the source device selected based on the user input as the target source device, and send information about the target source device to destination device 200. Destination device 200 can then perform a connection operation with the target source device using the information about the target source device.

[0044] According to embodiments of this disclosure, electronic device 100 can search for connectable source devices around the electronic device (e.g., within a predetermined distance or specified range), and based on the search results, display at least one connectable source device from at least one source device included in the source device list.

[0045] According to embodiments of this disclosure, when a specified event occurs, the electronic device 100 can automatically select a source device from one or more source devices included in the source device list 400, determine the selected source device as the target source device, and send information about the target source device to the destination device 200.

[0046] According to embodiments of this disclosure, electronic device 100 can select a source device that has been registered by the user as a preferred device from at least one source device included in the source device list as a target source device.

[0047] According to embodiments of this disclosure, electronic device 100 may select, from at least one source device included in the source device list, the source device most recently connected to the destination device as the target source device.

[0048] According to embodiments of this disclosure, electronic device 100 may select the source device that most frequently connects to the destination device from at least one source device included in the source device list as the target source device.

[0049] According to embodiments of this disclosure, electronic device 100 can obtain mapping information including one or more location information and corresponding source devices, and when it detects that the electronic device is at a location corresponding to the location information, it selects a source device mapped to the location information as a target source device from at least one source device included in the source device list.

[0050] According to embodiments of this disclosure, electronic device 100 can provide or display a user interface for setting location information and a corresponding source device, and store mapping information based on user input received through the user interface.

[0051] According to embodiments of this disclosure, when the receiving device 200 receives information about a target source device from the electronic device 100, the receiving device 200 can terminate its connection with the electronic device 100, send a connection request to the target source device according to the Bluetooth communication protocol, and receive a connection acceptance from the target source device, thereby establishing a connection according to the Bluetooth communication protocol. For example, when the receiving device 200 receives information about a first source device 301 that is a source device, the receiving device 200 can send a connection request to the first source device 301 with reference to the information about the first source device 301.

[0052] Figure 2 An example of a system including an electronic device 100, a receiving device 200, and a target source device 300 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0053] refer to Figure 2 The system may include an electronic device 100, a receiving device 200, and a target source device 300 connected via a communication network.

[0054] Electronic device 100 may be a device capable of displaying images or data upon user request, and may include a communicator (or communication interface) 110, a display 120, a memory 130, and a processor 140.

[0055] The communicator 110 may include various communication circuits for enabling communication with at least one external device. Here, "communication" may refer to the operation of sending and / or receiving data, signals, requests and / or commands.

[0056] The communicator 110 can perform wired or wireless communication with at least one external device. The external device can be a receiving device 200, a target source device 300, etc.

[0057] For example, communicator 110 may include at least one of a communication module, communication circuit, communication device, input / output port, or input / output plug for performing wired or wireless communication with at least one external device.

[0058] For example, communicator 110 may include at least one wireless communication module, wireless communication circuit, or wireless communication device for performing wireless communication with at least one external device.

[0059] For example, communicator 110 may include a short-range communication module, such as an infrared (IR) communication module, which can receive control commands from a remote control located at a short distance. In this case, communicator 110 can receive control signals from the remote control.

[0060] As another example, communicator 110 may include at least one communication module that performs communication according to communication standards such as Bluetooth, WiFi, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Near Field Communication (NFC) / Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), WiFi Direct, Ultra Wideband (UWB), or ZigBee. Furthermore, communicator 110 may also include a communication module that performs communication with a server supporting long-distance communication according to long-range communication standards. For example, communicator 110 may include a communication module that performs communication via a network used for Internet communication. Additionally, communicator 110 may include a communication module that performs communication via a communication network conforming to communication standards such as 3G, 4G, 5G, and / or 6G.

[0061] As another example, communicator 110 may include at least one port for connecting to an external device via a wired cable to communicate with the external device in a wired manner. For example, communicator 110 may include at least one of a High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) port, a component jack, a personal computer (PC) port, or a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port. Therefore, communicator 110 can perform communication with a wired external device through at least one port. Here, "port" can refer to a physical device component that can be used to connect or insert cables, communication lines, plugs, etc.

[0062] As described above, the communicator 110 may include at least one supporting element for supporting communication between the electronic device 100 and external devices. Here, the at least one supporting element may include the aforementioned communication module, communication circuit, communication device, port for data input / output, cable port for data input / output, and / or plug for data input / output. For example, the at least one supporting element included in the communicator 110 may include an Ethernet communication module, a WiFi communication module, a Bluetooth communication module, an IR communication module, a USB port, a tuner (or broadcast receiver), an HDMI port, a DisplayPort (DP), and / or a Digital Video Interface (DVI) port.

[0063] The display 120 can output images or data processed in the electronic device 100.

[0064] The memory 130 may store one or more programs for processing and control by the processor 140, and may store data input to or output from the electronic device 100. Furthermore, the memory 130 may store data for the operation of the electronic device 100.

[0065] The memory 130 may include at least one type of storage medium selected from flash memory, hard disk memory, multimedia card micro / card memory (e.g., SD and XD memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic storage, magnetic disk, and optical disk.

[0066] Processor 140 can control the overall operation of electronic device 100. For example, processor 140 can perform the functions of electronic device 100 described herein by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 130.

[0067] Processor 140 may include various processing circuitry and / or multiple processors. For example, the term "processor" as used herein (including in the claims) may include various processing circuitry that includes at least one processor. In at least one processor, one or more processors may be configured to perform the various functions described herein individually and / or collectively in a distributed manner. As used herein, "processor," "at least one processor," or "one or more processors" may be configured to perform various functions. However, these terms may cover, for example, but not limited to, situations where a processor can perform some functions and another processor or other processors can perform some other functions, and situations where a single processor can perform all functions. Furthermore, at least one processor may include a combination of processors performing various functions in a distributed manner. At least one processor may execute program instructions to implement or perform various functions.

[0068] In embodiments of this disclosure, processor 140 may store one or more instructions in its internal memory and may execute one or more instructions stored in its internal memory to perform control, causing operation of the display device. That is, processor 140 may perform a specified operation by executing at least one instruction or program stored in processor 140's internal memory or memory 130.

[0069] According to embodiments of this disclosure, processor 140 can perform operations of the electronic device 100 described herein by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 130.

[0070] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, processor 140 may be configured to execute one or more instructions stored in memory 130 to connect to a destination device according to the Bluetooth communication protocol, obtain a list of source devices from the destination device including information about at least one source device that the destination device has connected to, select a target source device from the at least one source device included in the source device list, and send information about the selected target source device to the destination device, causing the destination device to perform a connection operation with the selected target source device.

[0071] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, processor 140 may be configured to execute one or more instructions stored in memory 130 to display at least one source device included in a source device list based on user input, receive input for selecting a source device from the source device list, and determine the source device selected based on the input as a target source device.

[0072] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, processor 140 may be configured to execute one or more instructions stored in memory 130 to search for connectable source devices around the electronic device (e.g., within a predetermined distance or specified range), and based on the search results, display at least one connectable source device from at least one source device included in the source device list.

[0073] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, processor 140 may be configured to execute one or more instructions stored in memory 130 to detect the occurrence of a specified event and select a target source device from at least one source device included in a list of source devices based on the detection.

[0074] According to embodiments of this disclosure, processor 140 may be configured to execute one or more instructions stored in memory 130 to select a source device registered by the user as a preferred device from at least one source device included in the source device list as a target source device.

[0075] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, processor 140 may be configured to execute one or more instructions stored in memory 130 to select, from at least one source device included in the source device list, the source device most recently connected to the destination device as the target source device.

[0076] According to embodiments of this disclosure, processor 140 may be configured to execute one or more instructions stored in memory 130 to select, from at least one source device included in the source device list, the source device most frequently connected to the destination device as the target source device.

[0077] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, processor 140 may be configured to execute one or more instructions stored in memory 130 to obtain mapping information including one or more location information and corresponding source devices, and when an electronic device is detected to be at a location corresponding to the location information, to select a source device mapped to the location information as a target source device from at least one source device included in the source device list.

[0078] According to embodiments of this disclosure, processor 140 may be configured to execute one or more instructions stored in memory 130 to provide a user interface for setting location information and its corresponding source device, and to store mapping information based on user input received through the user interface.

[0079] Electronic device 100 can be any type of device including a processor and memory to perform functions. Electronic device 100 can be a fixed or portable device. For example, electronic device 100 can refer to a device including a display for displaying image content, video content, game content, graphic content, etc. Electronic device 100 can include, for example, various types of electronic devices capable of receiving and outputting content, such as TVs such as network TV, smart TV, Internet TV, Web TV, and IPTV; computers such as desktop computers, laptop computers, and tablet computers; and various smart devices such as smartphones, cellular phones, game consoles, music players, video players, medical devices, and home appliances. In terms of providing content, electronic device 100 can be referred to as a source device, and can also be referred to as a content providing device, electronic device, computing device, etc.

[0080] Figure 2 The block diagram of the electronic device 100 shown may be a block diagram of an embodiment of this disclosure. Each component of the block diagram may be integrated, added, or omitted according to the specifications of the actual implemented electronic device 100. That is, it should be understood that two or more components may be combined into one component, or one component may be divided into two or more components. Furthermore, the functions performed in each block are for the purpose of describing embodiments of this disclosure, and their particular operation or device is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0081] exist Figure 2In this disclosure, electronic device 100 is shown as including a display; however, this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, electronic device 100 may be a means of providing content to an external display device including a display. The content may include, but is not limited to, images, videos, audio, text, games, and applications. Electronic device 100 may include a set-top box (STB), a Blu-ray disc player, a digital versatile optical disc (DVD) player, a gaming device, a digital camera, a portable camcorder, a streaming media device, a home theater, etc. In this case, electronic device 100 may connect to the external display device via an input / output port such as an HDMI port to send video / audio signals to the external display device. Alternatively, electronic device 100 may connect to the external display device via wired communication, short-range wireless communication such as a wireless local area network (WLAN), WiFi, or Bluetooth, or long-range wireless communication.

[0082] The host device 200 will now be described.

[0083] The receiving device 200 may include a communicator 210 and an output unit 220 (in Figure 2 The host device 200 is referred to as display 220, memory 230, and processor 240. However, the host device 200 is not limited to these and may include more components than those shown.

[0084] The communicator 210 may include various communication circuits included in one or more modules to allow wireless communication between the destination device 200 and a wireless communication system, or between the destination device 200 and a network where another device resides. According to embodiments of this disclosure, the communicator 210 may perform communication with the electronic device 100 or the target source device 300 using short-range communication technologies. Short-range communication technologies may include, for example, Bluetooth communication, WiFi communication, and IR communication.

[0085] Output unit 220 can output data received from electronic device 100 or target source device 300. For example, output unit 220 may include an audio output unit that can output audio data received from electronic device 100 or target source device 300.

[0086] The memory 230 can store one or more programs for processing and control by the processor 240, and can store data input to or output from the destination device 200.

[0087] The memory 230 may include at least one type of storage medium selected from flash memory, hard disk memory, multimedia card micro / card memory (e.g., SD and XD memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic storage, magnetic disk, and optical disk.

[0088] Processor 240 can control the overall operation of destination device 200. For example, processor 240 can perform the functions of destination device 200 described herein by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 230.

[0089] Processor 240 may include various processing circuitry and / or multiple processors. For example, the term "processor" as used herein (including in the claims) may include various processing circuitry comprising at least one processor. In at least one processor, one or more processors may be configured to perform the various functions described herein individually and / or collectively in a distributed manner. As used herein, "processor," "at least one processor," or "one or more processors" may be configured to perform various functions. However, these terms may cover, for example, but not limited to, situations where a processor can perform some functions and another processor or other processors can perform some other functions, and situations where a single processor can perform all functions. Furthermore, at least one processor may include a combination of processors performing various functions in a distributed manner. At least one processor may execute program instructions to implement or perform various functions.

[0090] In embodiments of this disclosure, processor 240 may store one or more instructions in its internal memory and may execute one or more instructions stored in its internal memory to perform control, causing the aforementioned operations to be performed. That is, processor 240 may perform the specified operations by executing at least one instruction or program stored in processor 240's internal memory or memory 230.

[0091] According to embodiments of this disclosure, processor 240 can execute one or more instructions stored in memory 230 to establish a communication connection with electronic device 100 using short-range wireless communication technology. Short-range wireless communication technology may include Bluetooth communication technology, WiFi Direct technology, etc.

[0092] According to embodiments of this disclosure, processor 240 can execute one or more instructions stored in memory 230 to control communicator 210 to establish a communication connection with electronic device 100 according to Bluetooth communication protocol.

[0093] According to embodiments of this disclosure, processor 240 may execute one or more instructions stored in memory 230 to store in memory 230 a list of source devices including information about at least one source device that has been communicatively connected according to the Bluetooth communication protocol.

[0094] According to embodiments of this disclosure, processor 240 may execute one or more instructions stored in memory 230 to control communicator 210 to send a list of source devices to electronic device 100.

[0095] According to embodiments of this disclosure, processor 240 may execute one or more instructions stored in memory 230 to control communicator 210 to receive information about a target source device from electronic device 100.

[0096] According to embodiments of this disclosure, processor 240 may execute one or more instructions stored in memory 230 to control communicator 210 to send a connection request to target source device 300 with reference to information about the target source device.

[0097] According to embodiments of this disclosure, processor 240 may execute one or more instructions stored in memory 230 to control communicator 210 to receive connection acceptance from target source device 300.

[0098] The destination device 200 can be any type of device including a processor and memory for performing functions. The destination device 200 can include various electronic devices capable of performing Bluetooth communication. The destination device 200 may be referred to as a destination device in relation to receiving data from the electronic device 100, and may also be referred to differently as an electronic device, a computing device, a content receiving device, a Bluetooth communication device, etc.

[0099] also, Figure 2 The block diagram of the receiving device 200 shown may be a block diagram of an embodiment of this disclosure. Each component of the block diagram may be integrated, added, or omitted according to the specifications of the actual implemented receiving device 200. That is, it should be understood that two or more components may be combined into one component, or one component may be divided into two or more components. Furthermore, the functions performed in each block are for the purpose of describing an embodiment of this disclosure, and their particular operation or device is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0100] The target source device 300 will now be described.

[0101] The target source device 300 may include a communicator 310, a display 320, a memory 330, and a processor 340. However, the target source device 300 is not limited to these and may include more components than those shown. For example, the target source device 300 may include a separate image processor for image processing of application images performed in the target source device 300.

[0102] The communicator 310 may include various communication circuits included in one or more modules for enabling wireless communication between the target source device 300 and a wireless communication system or between the target source device 300 and a network in which another device resides. According to embodiments of this disclosure, the communicator 310 may perform communication with the destination device 200 according to the Bluetooth communication protocol.

[0103] The display 320 can display images or data processed in the target source device 300.

[0104] The memory 330 can store one or more programs for processing and control by the processor 340, and can store data input to or output from the target source device 300.

[0105] The memory 330 may include at least one type of storage medium selected from flash memory, hard disk memory, multimedia card micro / card memory (e.g., SD and XD memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic storage, magnetic disk, and optical disk.

[0106] Processor 340 can control the overall operation of target source device 300. For example, processor 340 can perform the functions of target source device 300 described herein by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 330.

[0107] Processor 340 may include various processing circuitry and / or multiple processors. For example, the term "processor" as used herein (including in the claims) may include various processing circuitry comprising at least one processor. In at least one processor, one or more processors may be configured to perform the various functions described herein individually and / or collectively in a distributed manner. As used herein, "processor," "at least one processor," or "one or more processors" may be configured to perform various functions. However, these terms may cover, for example, but not limited to, situations where a processor can perform some functions and another processor or other processors can perform some other functions, and situations where a single processor can perform all functions. Furthermore, at least one processor may include a combination of processors performing various functions in a distributed manner. At least one processor may execute program instructions to implement or perform various functions.

[0108] In embodiments of this disclosure, processor 340 may store one or more instructions in its internal memory and may execute one or more instructions stored in its internal memory to perform control, causing the aforementioned operations to be performed. That is, processor 340 may perform the specified operations by executing at least one instruction or program stored in processor 340's internal memory or memory 330.

[0109] According to embodiments of this disclosure, processor 340 may execute one or more instructions stored in memory 330 to control communicator 310 to receive connection requests from destination device 200 according to the Bluetooth communication protocol.

[0110] According to embodiments of this disclosure, processor 340 may execute one or more instructions stored in memory 330 to control communicator 310 to send a connection acceptance in response to a connection request from destination device 200.

[0111] Figure 2 The block diagram of the target source device 300 shown may be a block diagram of an embodiment of this disclosure. Each component of the block diagram may be integrated, added, or omitted according to the specifications of the actual implemented target source device 300. That is, it should be understood that two or more components may be combined into one component, or one component may be divided into two or more components. Furthermore, the functions performed in each block are for the purpose of describing embodiments of this disclosure, and their particular operation or device is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0112] Figure 3 An example block diagram of a receiver device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0113] refer to Figure 3 Similar to Figure 2 The receiving device 200 may include a communicator 210, an output unit 220, a memory 230, and a processor 240.

[0114] The communicator 210 may include a Bluetooth communication module 211 for operation according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0115] The memory 230 may include a Bluetooth application 231 for enabling the host device 200 to communicate according to the Bluetooth communication protocol.

[0116] Bluetooth application 231 may include one or more instructions to allow the destination device 200 to communicate according to the Bluetooth communication protocol, and may also generate a source device list 232 by collecting information about one or more source devices that the destination device 200 has connected, according to embodiments of this disclosure.

[0117] The source device list 232 may include information about one or more source devices that the destination device 200 has connected to. For example, when the destination device 200 is already connected to the first source device 301, the second source device 302, and the third source device 303, the source device list 232 may include information about the first source device, the second source device, and the third source device.

[0118] Whenever a connection is established with a source device, the processor 240 can update the source device list to store information about the connected source devices. This information may include identification information about the source device. The identification information may include at least one of a Bluetooth (BT) Media Access Control (MAC) address or a BT friendly name. The information may also include connection time information, indicating the duration of the connection between the destination device 200 and the source device. This connection time information may include at least one of the following: the time when the destination device 200 and the source device began connecting; the time when the destination device 200 and the source device terminated connecting; or the number of times the destination device 200 connected with the source device within a specific time period.

[0119] Figure 4 An example block diagram of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0120] refer to Figure 4 The electronic device 100 may include a communicator 110, a display 120, a memory 130, a processor 140, a video processor 150, an audio processor 160, an audio output unit 170, a receiver 180, and a sensor 190.

[0121] The communicator 110 may include various communication circuits included in one or more modules for enabling wireless communication between the electronic device 100 and a wireless communication system or between the electronic device 100 and a network in which another electronic device resides. For example, the communicator 110 may include a mobile communication module 111, a wireless internet module 112, a WiFi communication module 113, and a Bluetooth communication module 114.

[0122] The mobile communication module 111 can transmit wireless signals to or receive wireless signals from at least one of a base station, external terminal, or server on the mobile communication network. The wireless signals may include voice call signals, video call signals, or various types of data transmitted / received according to text / multimedia messages.

[0123] The wireless internet module 112 can refer to a module used for wireless internet access and can be installed inside or outside the device. Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) (WiFi), Wireless Broadband (WiBro), Global Microwave Access Interoperability (WiMAX), High-Speed ​​Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA) and other technologies can be used as wireless internet technologies. Through the wireless internet module 112, the device can establish a WiFi peer-to-peer (P2P) connection with another device.

[0124] The communicator 110 may include a short-range communication module for short-range communication. Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Ultra Wideband (UWB), ZigBee, etc., can be used as short-range communication technologies. The communicator 110 may include a WiFi communication module 113 and a Bluetooth communication module 114 as short-range communication modules.

[0125] The WiFi communication module 113 can establish a communication connection and perform communication according to the WiFi communication protocol under the control of the processor 140.

[0126] The Bluetooth communication module 114 can establish a communication connection with the destination device 200 and perform communication according to the Bluetooth communication protocol under the control of the processor 140.

[0127] The Bluetooth communication module 114 can send data to the destination device 200 under the control of the processor 140.

[0128] The monitor 120 can display image signals on the screen.

[0129] The memory 130 can store programs related to the operation of the electronic device 100 and various data generated during the operation of the electronic device 100.

[0130] Memory 130 can store at least one instruction. Furthermore, memory 130 can store at least one instruction executed by processor 140. Additionally, memory 130 can store at least one program executed by processor 140. Furthermore, memory 130 can store an application for providing a specified service.

[0131] For example, memory 130 may include at least one type of storage medium selected from flash memory, hard disk memory, multimedia card micro / card memory (e.g., SD and XD memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic storage, magnetic disk, and optical disk.

[0132] According to embodiments of this disclosure, memory 130 may store Bluetooth application 131 and source device list 132 received from destination device 200.

[0133] Processor 140 can control the overall operation of electronic device 100. For example, processor 140 can perform the functions of electronic device 100 described herein by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 130.

[0134] In embodiments of this disclosure, processor 140 may store one or more instructions in its internal memory and may execute one or more instructions stored in its internal memory to perform control, causing operation of the display device. That is, processor 140 may perform a specified operation by executing at least one instruction or program stored in processor 140's internal memory or memory 130.

[0135] Processor 140 may include various processing circuitry and / or multiple processors. For example, the term "processor" as used herein (including in the claims) may include various processing circuitry comprising at least one processor. In at least one processor, one or more processors may be configured to perform the various functions described herein individually and / or collectively in a distributed manner. As used herein, a processor, at least one processor, or one or more processors may be configured to perform various functions. However, these terms may cover, for example, but not limited to, situations where a processor can perform some functions and another processor or other processors can perform some other functions, and situations where a single processor can perform all functions. Furthermore, at least one processor may include a combination of processors performing various functions in a distributed manner. At least one processor may execute program instructions to implement or perform various functions.

[0136] According to embodiments of this disclosure, processor 140 can perform operations of the electronic device 100 described herein by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 130.

[0137] Under the control of processor 140, video processor 150 can process the image signal received from communicator 110 and output the result signal to display 120.

[0138] Under the control of processor 140, audio processor 160 can convert audio signals received from receiver 180 or communicator 110 into analog audio signals and output the analog audio signals to audio output unit 170.

[0139] The audio output unit 170 can output audio (e.g., voice or sound) input via the communicator 110 or receiver 180. Furthermore, under the control of the processor 130, the audio output unit 170 can output audio stored in the memory 130. The audio output unit 170 may include at least one of a speaker, a headphone output terminal, or a Sony / Philips digital interface (S / PDIF) output terminal, or any combination thereof.

[0140] Receiver 180 can receive, under the control of processor 140, from external sources such as electronic device 100, video (e.g., moving images), audio (e.g., voice and music), and additional information (e.g., electronic program guide (EPG)). Receiver 180 may include one or any combination of an HDMI port 181, a component jack 182, a PC port 183, and a USB port 184. In addition to HDMI port 181, receiver 180 may also include a DisplayPort (DP), Thunderbolt, and Mobile High Definition Link (MHL).

[0141] Sensor 190 can sense a user’s voice, a user’s image, or a user’s interaction, and may include a microphone 191, a camera 192, and a light receiver 193.

[0142] Microphone 191 can receive the user's voice. Microphone 191 can convert the received voice into an electrical signal and output the electrical signal to processor 140. The user's voice may include, for example, voice corresponding to the functions or menus of electronic device 100.

[0143] Camera 192 can receive images (e.g., consecutive frames) corresponding to the user's movements (including gestures within the camera's recognition range). By using the received motion recognition results, processor 140 can select a menu displayed on display device 100, or can execute controls corresponding to the motion recognition results.

[0144] The optical receiver 193 can receive optical signals (including control signals) from an external controller. The optical receiver 193 can receive optical signals corresponding to user input (e.g., touch, press, touch gesture, voice, or movement) from the external controller. Control signals can be extracted from the received optical signals under the control of the processor 140.

[0145] Figure 5 An example flowchart of a method for operating a source device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0146] refer to Figure 5 In operation 510, electronic device 100 can connect to receiver device 200 according to Bluetooth communication protocol.

[0147] In operation 520, electronic device 100 can receive from destination device 200 a list of source devices including information about at least one source device that has been connected to destination device 200. The list of source devices may include information about at least one source device that has been paired and connected to destination device 200. The information about the source devices may include at least one of the source device's BT MAC address or BT friendly name as identification information about the source devices connected to destination device 200.

[0148] In operation 530, electronic device 100 may select a target source device from at least one source device included in the source device list received by receiver device 200.

[0149] According to embodiments of this disclosure, electronic device 100 can select a target source device based on user input for selecting a source device from at least one source device. Electronic device 100 can provide a graphical user interface for selecting a source device from at least one source device included in a list of source devices. When user input for selecting a source device is received via the graphical user interface, electronic device 100 can determine the selected source device as the target source device.

[0150] According to embodiments of this disclosure, electronic device 100 can select the most recently connected source device as a target source device from at least one source device. For example, information about the at least one source device included in the list of source devices received from destination device 200 may include information about connection time. Electronic device 100 may identify the most recently connected source device by referring to information about the time each source device has been connected to the destination device.

[0151] According to embodiments of this disclosure, electronic device 100 can select the most frequently connected source device as a target source device from at least one source device. For example, information about at least one source device included in the source device list received from destination device 200 may include information about the number of connections. Electronic device 100 can identify the most frequently connected source device by referring to information about the number of times each source device has connected to the destination device.

[0152] According to embodiments of this disclosure, electronic device 100 can select a user-preferred source device as a target source device from at least one source device. For example, electronic device 100 can store information about a source device registered as a user-preferred device, and can select a source device registered as a user-preferred device as a target source device from the source devices.

[0153] According to embodiments of this disclosure, electronic device 100 can obtain mapping information including one or more location information and corresponding source devices. When a source device is detected to be at a location corresponding to the location information included in the mapping information, electronic device 100 can select a source device mapped to the location information as the target source device from at least one source device included in the source device list. For example, the mapping information may include information that home is mapped to a TV and office is mapped to a smartphone. When electronic device 100 detects that it is at home, it can select a TV as the target source device. When electronic device 100 detects that it is at the office, it can select a smartphone as the target source device.

[0154] In operation 540, electronic device 100 can send information about the selected target source device to receiver device 200, enabling receiver device to perform a connection operation with the selected target source device. Then, receiver device 200, having received the information about the target source device, can send a connection request to the target source device according to the Bluetooth communication protocol, referencing the information, and receive a connection acceptance in response to the connection request to establish a Bluetooth communication connection.

[0155] Figure 6 An example flowchart of a method for operating a source device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0156] refer to Figure 6 During operation 601, the receiving device 200 can perform pairing and connection operations with the first source device 301 according to the Bluetooth communication protocol.

[0157] Pairing can be a process of authenticating each other and exchanging encryption keys for secure communication between two Bluetooth devices. This process is typically performed when two devices first attempt to communicate with each other. Through the pairing process, the two devices can set up a shared key that can be used to securely encrypt and exchange data in future communications. That is, the process can include authentication that allows the two devices to recognize each other's presence and pair with each other by the user, a key exchange to exchange encryption keys for secure communication between the two devices, and encryption settings based on the exchanged key to establish communication encryption.

[0158] The connection process may include setting up a communication channel for actual data transmission between the two devices after successful pairing. During the connection process, the two devices can recognize each other's presence and securely exchange data using a shared encryption key. The connection process can be less complex than pairing and can often be performed automatically without additional user intervention.

[0159] Bluetooth can be a standard that can be used to communicate with various types of devices, and profiles can exist as separate protocols for each type of device. Devices that wish to communicate with each other can perform communication by using the same profile. Representative Bluetooth profiles may include, for example, the Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) for sending voice to an audio device with a receiver, the Hands-free Profile (HFP) for hands-free calling, the Headset Profile (HSP) for communicating with headsets with built-in Bluetooth, the Human Interface Device Profile (HID) for wirelessly connecting to input devices such as a computer mouse or keyboard, and the Serial Port Profile (SPP) for serial communication and all data transfer between devices.

[0160] A2DP can be used for pairing and connecting 601.

[0161] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 Describe the pairing and connection operations in detail.

[0162] Figure 7 An example flowchart of a pairing operation between devices according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0163] refer to Figure 7 This describes the pairing operations between the originating device and the target device. For example, the originating device can be a first source device, and the target device can be a destination device. The originating device and the target device can operate according to the A2DP configuration file.

[0164] In operation 710, the device can initiate a search and identification process. Typically, during a device search and identification process, when one device is set to search mode and another device is set to discoverable mode, the device in search mode can search for all nearby Bluetooth devices, and the user can select a specific device to pair with. When the device activates Bluetooth search mode, it can begin searching for other nearby Bluetooth devices. Each device can broadcast its own BT MAC address. The BT MAC address can be used as a unique identifier for the device and can be used to distinguish each device on the network. The device performing the search can receive a BT friendly name along with the BT MAC addresses of nearby devices (when available). The BT friendly name can be a more user-friendly name that allows the user to easily identify the device, and the user can use this name to identify and select the device to connect to.

[0165] In operation 720, paired devices can exchange device information with each other. During this device information exchange, paired devices can exchange information such as their device type, i.e., the Bluetooth profiles and functions supported by the devices. This information allows the two devices to identify what types of data they can exchange with each other.

[0166] In operation 730, paired devices can perform authentication request and acceptance. During the authentication request and acceptance operation, a device can request authentication from another device, and when the request is accepted, a secure connection can be established between the devices. This process typically includes entering a personal identification (PIN) code or key. For example, the authentication process between the two devices can be completed by entering a user-set PIN code or an automatically generated key. Therefore, it can be confirmed that communication between the two devices is secure.

[0167] In operation 740, the devices can perform link key generation and exchange. During this operation, two devices can generate unique link keys and exchange them with each other. This key can be used to encrypt all communication between the two devices and can be used continuously while maintaining pairing. Thus, because communication between the two devices is encrypted using the link key, data can be securely sent to each other.

[0168] This process establishes a secure communication channel between Bluetooth devices. Once pairing is successful, the devices can securely exchange data through an encrypted link, and the link key can be reused in subsequent communications to quickly re-establish a secure connection.

[0169] Figure 8 A flowchart illustrating the connection operation between paired devices according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0170] refer to Figure 8 In operation 810, paired devices (i.e., originating device and target device) can automatically connect to each other through connection and confirmation operations.

[0171] When reconnecting devices after pairing, the process of exchanging device names or supported profiles is typically less complex than the initial pairing setup. Because this information was already exchanged and authentication completed during pairing, the reconnection process can primarily be performed by re-verifying the secure connection using the previously shared link key. However, devices can exchange some basic information to ensure connection quality and compatibility. That is, by verifying each other's identity using the link key generated and stored during the previous pairing process, devices can ensure secure communication between them. Furthermore, during reconnection, devices can again exchange device names or supported profile information to reflect changed settings or updated software profiles.

[0172] Return to reference Figure 6In operation 601, when pairing and connection are performed between the destination device 200 and the first source device 301, the destination device 200 can receive and process data from the first source device 301.

[0173] In operation 602, the destination device 200 may store information about the first source device 301 in a source device list. The destination device 200 may also store information about source devices that have been paired and connected to it in the source device list. The information about the source devices stored in the source device list may include identification information about the connected source devices. The identification information about the connected source devices may include at least one of a BT MAC address used to identify the Bluetooth device, or a BT friendly name used by the user to easily identify the Bluetooth device. For example, the destination device 200 may store at least one of the BT MAC address or BT friendly name of the connected first source device 301 in the source device list.

[0174] In operation 603, when pairing and connection are performed between the destination device 200 and the second source device 302, the destination device 200 can receive and process data from the second source device 302.

[0175] In operation 604, the destination device 200 may store information about the second source device 302 in a source device list. For example, the destination device 200 may store at least one of the BT MAC address or BT friendly name of the connected second source device 302 in the source device list.

[0176] In operation 605, when pairing and connection are performed between the destination device 200 and the third source device 303, the destination device 200 can receive and process data from the third source device 303.

[0177] In operation 606, the destination device 200 may store information about the third source device 303 in a source device list. For example, the destination device 200 may store at least one of the BT MAC address or BT friendly name of the connected third source device 303 in the source device list.

[0178] In this way, the receiver device 200, which is already connected to the first source device 301 to the third source device 303, can store, for example... Figure 9 The list of source devices is shown.

[0179] Figure 9 An example of a list of source devices according to embodiments of this disclosure is shown.

[0180] refer to Figure 9The source device list 900 may include the BT MAC address and BT friendly name of the first source device, the BT MAC address and BT friendly name of the second source device, and the BT MAC address and BT friendly name of the third source device. Thus, whenever the destination device 200 pairs and connects with a new source device, the destination device 200 can store information about the connected source device in the source device list. Furthermore, by providing the stored source device list to the connected source devices, the destination device 200 can allow the source devices to use the source device list when switching source devices.

[0181] In operation 607, pairing and connection can be performed between the destination device 200 and the electronic device 100. Thus, after the connection is performed between the destination device 200 and the electronic device 100, the destination device 200 can store information about the source device as described above; however, for ease of description, redundant descriptions will be omitted.

[0182] In operation 608, electronic device 100 may send a source device information request to destination device 200.

[0183] In operation 609, the destination device 200 may respond to the source device information request of the electronic device 100 by sending a list of source devices stored in the destination device 200 to the electronic device 100.

[0184] In operation 610, electronic device 100 can send data to receiver device 200 according to the Bluetooth communication protocol.

[0185] In such Figure 6 In the operations shown, whenever a connection operation with a source device is performed, the destination device 200 according to an embodiment of this disclosure can store and manage information about the connected source devices in a source device list. Furthermore, whenever a connection is made with a source device, the destination device 200 can provide the source device with the source device list, allowing the source device to use the information about the source device.

[0186] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the destination device 200 stores information about the source device in a source device list, and the destination device 200 provides the source device list to the connected source device, which can occur not only when the destination device 200 is paired and connected to the source device, but also when the destination device 200 is reconnected after being paired.

[0187] Figure 10 An example of a list of source devices according to embodiments of this disclosure is shown.

[0188] Although Figure 9 The list of source devices described includes the BT MAC address and BT friendly name of the source devices, but in addition to the BT MAC address and BT friendly name, Figure 10The information about the source device shown may also include connection time information. Connection time information may include at least one of the following: the start time of the connection between the source and destination devices, the end time of the connection between the source and destination devices, or the number of connections within a specific time period. Referring to the connection start time or connection end time, the source device can determine which source device was the most recently connected. Referring to the information about the number of connections, the source device can determine which source device was the most frequently connected.

[0189] For example, connection time information may include the time when the connection between the source device and the destination device was terminated. When the connection time information of the first source device indicates 15:30:30 on February 21, 2024, the connection time information of the second source device indicates 16:40:20 on February 21, 2024, and the connection time information of the third source device indicates 20:10:20 on February 20, 2024, the electronic device 100 can identify the second source device, which indicates the most recent time, as the most recently connected source device.

[0190] Figure 11 An example flowchart of a method for operating a source device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0191] Figure 11 The operation shown can be performed on electronic device 100 and receiver device 200 according to Figure 6 The operation shown is performed after the connection is established, and then the electronic device 100 receives and stores the source device list from the destination device 200.

[0192] refer to Figure 11 In operation 1101, electronic device 100 can receive user input for requesting a source device switch. For example, electronic device 100 can provide a graphical user interface for allowing a source device switch. According to this graphical user interface, user input for requesting a source device switch can be received from the user. For example, electronic device 100 can provide... Figure 12 The graphical user interface shown.

[0193] Figure 12 An example of a graphical user interface for allowing source device switching is shown according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0194] refer to Figure 12 The electronic device 100 may include an item 1200 for allowing source device switching. When user input for selecting item 1200 is received, the electronic device 100 may determine that user input requesting source device switching has been received.

[0195] Return to reference Figure 11In operation 1102, when user input requesting a source device switch is received, electronic device 100 can display a list of source devices. Electronic device 100 can display information about the source devices included in the source device list, which is received from and stored in the destination device 200.

[0196] For example, refer to Figure 12 The electronic device 100 can display information about a first source device, a second source device, and a third source device included in the source device list. The user can select one of the devices included in the displayed source device list.

[0197] In operation 1103, electronic device 100 can receive input for selecting a source device from a list of source devices.

[0198] In operation 1104, electronic device 100 can identify the selected source device as the target source device for source switching.

[0199] In operation 1105, electronic device 100 may send information about the target source device to destination device 200. The information about the target source device may include at least one of the target source device's BT MAC address or BT friendly name. For example, electronic device 100 may use the SPP protocol to send information about the target source device to destination device 200.

[0200] In operation 1106, the destination device 200 may send a connection termination request to the electronic device 100 when it receives information about the target source device from the electronic device 100.

[0201] In operation 1107, electronic device 100 may send a connection termination response to destination device 200. Therefore, the connection between electronic device 100 and destination device 200 may be terminated.

[0202] In operation 1108, the destination device 200 can send a connection request to the target source device based on information received from the electronic device 100 regarding the target source device. In operation 1109, the first source device 301 can send a connection response to the destination device 200. The destination device 200 and the first source device 301 can automatically connect through the connection request and connection response. For example, when the target source device is the first source device, the destination device 200 can send a connection request to the first source device 301. Because the destination device 200 is already connected to the first source device, the destination device 200 can connect simply by... Figure 8 The connection operation shown automatically connects to the first source device 301 without requiring a pairing operation.

[0203] Figure 13 It is used to describe embodiments according to this disclosure. Figure 11The diagram shows an example of the operation.

[0204] refer to Figure 13 When electronic device 100 and destination device 200 are connected according to the Bluetooth communication protocol, destination device 200 can provide source device list 1330 to electronic device 100.

[0205] Electronic device 100 and receiver device 200 can send / receive data via Bluetooth communication. Subsequently, when electronic device 100 receives a source switching request, it can provide a graphical user interface 1300 for selecting a predetermined source device by outputting information about the source devices included in the source device list 1330 received from receiver device 200. For example, when the source device list 1330 includes TVs, PCs, and tablets as source devices, electronic device 100 can include TVs, PCs, and tablets in the graphical user interface 1300. When the user selects, for example, a TV from the source devices included in the displayed graphical user interface, electronic device 100 can send information to receiver device 200 indicating that the selected target source device is a TV. Then, receiver device 200 can terminate its communication connection with electronic device 100, send a connection request to TV 304, and receive a connection response from it to establish a connection with TV 304.

[0206] Figure 14 An example flowchart of a method for operating a source device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0207] Figure 14 The operation shown can be performed on electronic device 100 and receiver device 200 according to Figure 6 The operation shown is performed after the connection is established, and then the electronic device 100 receives and stores the source device list from the destination device 200. Figure 14 The operation shown can be similar to Figure 11 The operation shown, but Figure 11 Operation 1102 shown can be used Figure 14 Operations 1402 and 1403 shown are replaced. Figure 14 The operation shown will be briefly described with Figure 11 The operation shown corresponds to the operation.

[0208] refer to Figure 14 In operation 1401, electronic device 100 can receive user input for requesting source device switching.

[0209] In operation 1402, electronic device 100 can scan surrounding devices to identify connectable source devices. Electronic device 100 can display information about source devices intended for switching based on a source device list received from destination device 200. However, the information about source devices included in the source device list can also include information about source devices that destination device 200 cannot currently connect to. That is, because the source device list provided by destination device 200 includes all information about source devices that destination device 200 has connected to so far, the source device list can include information about source devices currently within the connectable range of destination device 200, and can also include information about source devices within the inaccessible range of destination device 200. Since providing information about source devices that destination device 200 cannot currently connect to is meaningless, electronic device 100 can identify connectable source devices for destination device 200 and output only information about connectable source devices from the source device list as information about switchable source devices. For this purpose, electronic device 100 can search for Bluetooth devices based on the Bluetooth communication protocol and identify the found source devices as connectable source devices. For example, electronic device 100 can perform Figure 7 The device search process 710 is shown.

[0210] In operation 1403, electronic device 100 can display connectable source devices in the source device list. That is, electronic device 100 can compare the source devices included in the source device list with the connectable source devices identified by electronic device 100 in operation 1402. Furthermore, electronic device 100 can display connectable source devices from the source device list as devices intended for source switching selection, and can choose not to display non-connectable source devices from the source device list. Thus, because the destination device 200 displays currently connectable source devices as devices for source switching selection, it prevents the user from needlessly selecting non-connectable source devices.

[0211] Because subsequent operations 1404 to 1410 correspond to Figure 11 Operations 1103 to 1109 shown are omitted for brevity, so their redundant descriptions will be omitted.

[0212] Figure 15 It is used to describe embodiments according to this disclosure. Figure 14 The diagram shows an example of the operation.

[0213] refer to Figure 15 When electronic device 100 and destination device 200 are connected according to the Bluetooth communication protocol, destination device 200 can provide source device list 1330 to electronic device 100.

[0214] Electronic device 100 and receiver device 200 can send / receive data via Bluetooth communication. Subsequently, when electronic device 100 receives a source switching request, it can provide a graphical user interface 1300 for selecting a predetermined source device for switching by outputting information about the source devices included in the source device list 1330 received from receiver device 200. For example, the source device list 1330 may include TVs, PCs, and tablets as source devices. In this case, electronic device 100 can pre-search for surrounding devices and identify TVs and tablets as connectable devices. Electronic device 100 may include TVs and tablets as switchable source devices in the graphical user interface 1500, and may not include PCs, as PCs are not currently connectable devices. When the user selects, for example, a TV from the source devices included in the displayed graphical user interface, electronic device 100 can send information to receiver device 200 indicating that the selected target source device is a TV. Receiver device 200 can then terminate its communication connection with electronic device 100, send a connection request to TV 304, and receive a connection response from it to establish a connection with the TV. In this way, the electronic device 100 can output only the information of the devices that the destination device 200 can connect to, instead of outputting information about the source devices included in the source device list received from the destination device 200 as switchable source device information, thereby preventing the user from needlessly selecting source devices that cannot be connected to the destination device 200.

[0215] Figure 16 An example flowchart of a method for operating a source device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0216] Figure 16 The operation shown can be performed on electronic device 100 and receiver device 200 according to Figure 6 The operation shown is performed after the connection is established, and then the electronic device 100 receives and stores the source device list from the destination device 200.

[0217] refer to Figure 16 In operation 1601, electronic device 100 can detect a specified event. The specified event can be determined differently, but can be, for example, an event indicating that electronic device 100, which is already connected to and sending data to destination device 200, is finding it difficult to send data again. For example, electronic device 100 may be powered off, electronic device 100 may be in standby mode, or an error may have occurred in electronic device 100, making it difficult to send data again.

[0218] In operation 1602, when a specified event is detected, electronic device 100 can select a source device from the source device list. That is, when electronic device 100 is unable to send data to destination device 200 for a sudden reason, electronic device 100 can select a source device from the source device list to switch to another source device that can send data.

[0219] According to embodiments of this disclosure, electronic device 100 can select a source device pre-registered as a preferred device from a source device list. For example, electronic device 100 can receive input from a user specifying a preferred device and register the input preferred device as a preferred device. In this case, when a device registered as a preferred device by the user exists in the source device list, electronic device 100 can select the preferred device as a device intended for source switching.

[0220] According to embodiments of this disclosure, electronic device 100 can select the most recently connected source device from a list of source devices. For example, such as Figure 10 As shown, when the destination device 200 stores connected source devices in the source device list, in addition to the source device's BT MAC address or BT friendly name, the destination device 200 can also store information about the time of connection with the source device. The connection time information may include at least one of the time the destination device 200 started connecting with the source device or the time the connection ended with the source device. Thus, when receiving a source device list including information about connection time, the electronic device 100 can identify the most recently connected source device based on the connection time information. The electronic device 100 can then select the most recently connected source device from the source device list.

[0221] According to embodiments of this disclosure, electronic device 100 can select the most frequently connected source device from a list of source devices. For example, such as Figure 10 As shown, when the destination device 200 stores the connected source devices in the source device list, in addition to storing the BT MAC address or BT friendly name of the source device, the destination device 200 can also store information about the number of times it has connected to the source device. For example, the destination device 200 can use a counter to increment the count each time it connects to the source device within a specific time period, storing the information about the number of times it has connected to the source device in the source device list. In this way, when a source device list including information about connection time is received, the electronic device 100 can identify the most frequently connected source device based on the information about connection time. The electronic device 100 can select the most frequently connected source device from the source device list by identifying the device with the highest number of connections as the most frequently connected source device.

[0222] In operation 1603, electronic device 100 can identify the selected source device as the target source device.

[0223] In operation 1604, electronic device 100 may send information about the target source device to destination device 200. The information about the target source device may include at least one of the target source device's BT MAC address or BT friendly name.

[0224] In operation 1605, the destination device 200 may send a connection termination request to the electronic device 100 when it receives information about the target source device from the electronic device 100.

[0225] In operation 1606, electronic device 100 may send a connection termination response to destination device 200. Therefore, the connection between electronic device 100 and destination device 200 may be terminated.

[0226] In operation 1607, the destination device 200 can send a connection request to the target source device based on information received from the electronic device 100 regarding the target source device. In operation 1608, the first source device 301 can send a connection response to the destination device 200. The destination device 200 and the first source device 301 can automatically connect through the connection request and connection response. For example, when the target source device is the first source device, the destination device 200 can send a connection request to the first source device 301. Because the destination device 200 is already connected to the first source device, the destination device 200 can connect simply by... Figure 8 The connection operation shown automatically connects to the first source device 301 without requiring a pairing operation.

[0227] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a user can use a macro to preset a source device that he or she wants to connect to the destination device 200 at a specific location, so that when the user is at that specific location, the preset source device corresponding to that specific location can automatically connect to the destination device 200.

[0228] Figure 17 An example flowchart of a method for operating a source device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0229] Figure 17 The operation shown can be performed on electronic device 100 and receiver device 200 according to Figure 6 The operation shown is performed after the connection is established, and then the electronic device 100 receives and stores the source device list from the destination device 200.

[0230] refer to Figure 17 In operation 1701, electronic device 100 can provide a graphical user interface for user macro settings.

[0231] In operation 1702, electronic device 100 can receive user input based on a graphical user interface and register macro settings based on the user input.

[0232] Reference Figure 18 and Figure 19 Describe in detail how to set up registered macros.

[0233] Figure 18 This is a reference diagram used to describe a user interface for macro settings in a source device according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0234] refer to Figure 18 The electronic device 100 can provide a menu 1800 for the position of the headphones, which is an example of the receiving device 200, allowing the source device to be automatically connected.

[0235] When the electronic device 100 receives input from the user for selecting menu 1800, it can output, for example, a first user interface 1810. The first user interface 1810 can output a list of source devices for selecting a source device to connect to at home. For example, the first user interface 1810 can output TV, PC, and telephone as a list of source devices to connect to at home. Based on the user input for selecting TV among the output source devices, the electronic device 100 can set TV as the source device to connect to at home.

[0236] The second user interface 1820 can output a list of source devices for selecting source devices to connect to in the office. For example, the second user interface 1820 can output a TV, PC, and telephone as source devices to connect to in the office. Based on user input for selecting a PC among the output source devices, the electronic device 100 can set the PC as the source device to connect to in the office.

[0237] Figure 19 An example of macro settings for a source device to automatically connect to a destination device, according to an embodiment of this disclosure, is shown.

[0238] refer to Figure 19 It shows the basis with Figure 18 The same user input is used to generate a macro settings screen 1900 for automatic connection settings of the headphones. The macro settings screen 1900 can represent settings such that when the electronic device 100 is detected to be at home, the headphones, as an example of a home device, automatically connect to the TV, and when the electronic device 100 is detected to be at the office, the headphones automatically connect to the PC.

[0239] Figure 20 An example flowchart of a method for operating a source device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0240] refer to Figure 20 In operation 2001, electronic device 100 can detect that electronic device 100 is located at home.

[0241] In operation 2002, when it is detected that the electronic device 100 is located at home, the electronic device 100 can perform a connection operation with the home device 200.

[0242] In operation 2003, electronic device 100 can request source device information from sink device 200 when connected to sink device 200.

[0243] In operation 2004, electronic device 100 can receive a response from receiver device 200 including a list of source devices.

[0244] In operation 2005, electronic device 100 can obtain information about the source device mapped to the home based on automatic connection settings information. (Reference) Figure 19 For example, because the TV is mapped to the home, the electronic device 100 can recognize the TV as the source device mapped to the home.

[0245] In operation 2006, electronic device 100 can send information representing TV as information about the target source device to destination device 200.

[0246] In operation 2007, the receiving device 200 can terminate the connection by sending a connection termination request to the electronic device 100 and receiving a response to the request.

[0247] In operation 2008, the destination device 200 can connect to TV 304 by sending a connection request to TV 304 based on information about the target source device and receiving a response to the request from TV 304.

[0248] In operation 2009, the host device 200 can receive data from TV 304.

[0249] In operation 2010, electronic device 100 can detect that electronic device 100 is located in the office.

[0250] In operation 2011, electronic device 100 can perform a connection operation with terminal device 200 when it is detected that electronic device 100 is in the office.

[0251] In operation 2012, electronic device 100 can request source device information from sink device 200 when connected to sink device 200.

[0252] In operation 2013, electronic device 100 can receive a response from receiver device 200 including a list of source devices.

[0253] In operation 2014, electronic device 100 can obtain information about the source device mapped to the office based on automatic connection settings information. (Reference) Figure 19For example, because PC 305 is mapped to an office, electronic device 100 can recognize PC 305 as the source device mapped to the office.

[0254] In operation 2015, electronic device 100 can send information representing the PC as information about the target source device to destination device 200.

[0255] In operation 2016, the receiving device 200 can terminate the connection by sending a connection termination request to the electronic device 100 and receiving a response to the request.

[0256] In operation 2017, the destination device 200 can connect to the PC 305 by sending a connection request to the PC 305 based on information about the target source device and receiving a response to the request from the PC.

[0257] In Operation 2018, the host device 200 can receive data from PC 305.

[0258] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a method of operating an electronic device may include: connecting to a destination device according to a Bluetooth communication protocol.

[0259] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a method of operating an electronic device may include: obtaining a list of source devices from a destination device, the list of source devices including information about at least one source device that has been connected to the destination device.

[0260] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a method of operating an electronic device may include: selecting a target source device from at least one source device included in a list of source devices.

[0261] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a method of operating an electronic device may include: sending information about a selected target source device to a destination device, causing the destination device to perform a connection operation to the selected target source device.

[0262] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a method of operating an electronic device may include: displaying at least one source device included in a source device list based on user input; receiving input for selecting a source device from the source device list; and determining the source device selected based on the input as a target source device.

[0263] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a method of operating an electronic device may include: searching for connectable source devices in the vicinity of the electronic device (e.g., near, within a predetermined distance, or within a specified range); and, based on the search results, displaying at least one connectable source device from at least one source device included in a list of source devices.

[0264] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a method of operating an electronic device may include: detecting the occurrence of a specified event; and, based on the detection, selecting a target source device from at least one source device included in a list of source devices.

[0265] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a method of operating an electronic device may include: selecting a source device that has been registered by a user as a preferred device from at least one source device included in a list of source devices as a target source device.

[0266] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a method of operating an electronic device may include: selecting, from at least one source device included in a list of source devices, the source device most recently connected to the destination device as the target source device.

[0267] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a method of operating an electronic device may include: selecting, from at least one source device included in a list of source devices, the source device most frequently connected to the destination device as the target source device.

[0268] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a method of operating an electronic device may include: obtaining mapping information including one or more location information and corresponding source devices; and when the electronic device is detected to be at a location corresponding to the location information, selecting a source device mapped to the location information as a target source device from at least one source device included in the source device list.

[0269] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a method of operating an electronic device may include: providing a user interface for setting location information and a corresponding source device; and storing mapping information based on user input received through the user interface.

[0270] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, at least one instruction executed by a processor of an electronic device may be recorded on a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium to cause the electronic device to connect to a destination device according to a Bluetooth communication protocol, obtain a list of source devices from the destination device including information about at least one source device that the destination device has connected to, select a target source device from the at least one source device included in the source device list, and send information about the selected target source device to the destination device, causing the destination device to perform a connection operation with the selected target source device.

[0271] Embodiments of this disclosure can also be implemented in the form of a computer-readable recording medium, which includes computer-executable instructions, such as computer-executable program modules. The computer-readable recording medium can be any available medium accessible to a computer, and can include volatile and non-volatile media, as well as removable and non-removable media. Furthermore, the computer-readable recording medium can include a computer storage medium. The computer storage medium can include volatile and non-volatile, as well as removable and non-removable media, implemented by any method or technique for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data.

[0272] The embodiments described herein can be implemented as software (S / W) programs including instructions stored in a computer-readable storage medium.

[0273] A computer may be an apparatus capable of invoking instructions stored in a storage medium and performing operations according to embodiments of the present disclosure based on the invoked instructions, and may include electronic devices according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0274] Computer-readable storage media may be provided in the form of non-transitory storage media. Here, "non-transitory" may simply mean that the storage medium does not contain signals and is tangible, but does not distinguish between semi-permanent or temporary storage of data in the storage medium.

[0275] Furthermore, control methods according to embodiments of this disclosure can be included and provided in the computer program product. The computer program product can be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer.

[0276] Computer program products may include a switch program and a computer-readable storage medium in which the switch program is stored. For example, a computer program product may include a product in the form of a switch program (e.g., a downloadable application) distributed electronically by a device manufacturer or an electronic marketplace (e.g., the Google Play Store and the App Store). For electronic distribution, at least a portion of the switch program may be stored in the storage medium or may be temporarily generated. In this case, the storage medium may be a server of the manufacturer, a server of the electronic marketplace, or a relay server used for temporary storage of the switch program.

[0277] In a system including servers and devices, the computer program product may include the storage media of the server or the storage media of the device. Alternatively, when a third device (e.g., a smartphone) is communicatively connected to the server or device, the computer program product may include the storage media of the third device. Or, the computer program product may include the S / W program itself transmitted from the server to the device or the third device, or from the third device to the device.

[0278] In this scenario, one of the server, device, and third device may execute a computer program product to perform the method according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Alternatively, two or more of the server, device, and third device may execute a computer program product to perform the method according to embodiments of the present disclosure in a distributed manner.

[0279] For example, a server (e.g., a cloud server or an artificial intelligence server) can execute a computer program product stored on the server to control devices communicatively connected to the server to perform methods according to embodiments of this disclosure.

[0280] As another example, a third device may execute a computer program product to control a device communicatively connected to the third device to perform a method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. When the third device executes the computer program product, it may download the computer program product from a server and execute the downloaded computer program product. Alternatively, the third device may execute a method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure by executing a computer program product provided in a pre-loaded state.

[0281] Furthermore, in this document, "unit" may include hardware components such as processors or circuits and / or software components executed by hardware components such as processors.

[0282] The foregoing description of this disclosure is merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will readily understand that various modifications may be made therein without departing substantially from the spirit or characteristics of this disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that the above embodiments should be considered in a descriptive sense only and not for limiting purposes. For example, each component described as a single type may also be implemented in a distributed manner, and similarly, components described as distributed may also be implemented in a composite manner.

[0283] The scope of this disclosure is not limited by the above detailed description, but by the appended claims, and all modifications derived from the meaning and scope of the claims and their equivalents shall be construed as being included within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. An electronic device 100, comprising: Communication interface 110; Memory 130 for storing one or more instructions; and At least one processor 140, Wherein, when the one or more instructions are executed individually and / or jointly by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100: Connect to the destination device based on the Bluetooth communication protocol; Obtain a list of source devices from the destination device, the list of source devices including information associated with one or more source devices that are connected to the destination device; Select a target source device from the list of one or more source devices included in the source device list; and The destination device sends information associated with the target source device, and the information associated with the target source device instructs the destination device to perform a connection operation with the target source device.

2. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, When the one or more instructions are executed individually and / or jointly by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100 causes: Based on user input, display one or more source devices included in the source device list; Receive input instructing you to select the target source device from the list of source devices.

3. The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein, When the one or more instructions are executed individually and / or jointly by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100 causes: Search for connectable source devices within a predetermined distance of the electronic device; and Based on the search results, at least one connectable source device is displayed from the list of one or more source devices included in the source device list.

4. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, When the one or more instructions are executed individually and / or jointly by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100 causes: Detect the occurrence of a specified event; and Based on the detection, the target source device is selected from the one or more source devices included in the source device list.

5. The electronic device according to claim 4, wherein, When the one or more instructions are executed individually and / or jointly by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100 selects, from the one or more source devices included in the source device list, a source device that the user has registered as a preferred device as the target source device.

6. The electronic device according to claim 4, wherein, When the one or more instructions are executed individually and / or jointly by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100 selects the source device most recently connected to the destination device from the one or more source devices included in the source device list as the target source device.

7. The electronic device according to claim 4, wherein, When the one or more instructions are executed individually and / or jointly by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100 selects the source device most frequently connected to the destination device from the one or more source devices included in the source device list as the target source device.

8. The electronic device according to claim 4, wherein, When the one or more instructions are executed individually and / or jointly by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100 causes: Obtain mapping information, which includes the one or more source devices and one or more location information associated with each source device; and Based on the location of the electronic device within one or more location information entries, a source device associated with the location of the electronic device is selected as the target source device.

9. The electronic device according to claim 8, wherein, When the one or more instructions are executed individually and / or jointly by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100 causes: Displaying a user interface for associating the one or more location information entries with the respective source devices; and The mapping information is stored based on user input received through the user interface.

10. A method of operating an electronic device, the method being performed by one or more processors, and the method comprising: Connect to the destination device based on the Bluetooth communication protocol; Obtain a list of source devices from the destination device, the list of source devices including information about one or more source devices that have been connected to the destination device; Select a target source device from one or more source devices included in the source device list; and The destination device sends information associated with the target source device, and the information associated with the target source device instructs the destination device to perform a connection operation with the target source device.

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising: Based on user input, display one or more source devices included in the source device list; and Receive input instructing you to select the target source device from the list of source devices.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising: Search for connectable source devices within a predetermined distance of the electronic device; and Based on the search results, at least one connectable source device is displayed from the list of one or more source devices included in the source device list.

13. The method of claim 10, further comprising: Detect the occurrence of a specified event; and Based on the detection, the target source device is selected from the one or more source devices included in the source device list.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising: Select the source device that the user has registered as the preferred device from the list of source devices as the target source device.

15. A non-transitory computer-readable recording medium having at least one instruction recorded thereon, said at least one instruction causing the electronic device, when executed by at least one processor of the electronic device, to: Connect to the destination device based on the Bluetooth communication protocol; Obtain a list of source devices from the destination device, the list of source devices including information associated with one or more source devices that are connected to the destination device; Select a target source device from the list of one or more source devices; and The destination device sends information associated with the target source device, and the information associated with the target source device instructs the destination device to perform a connection operation with the target source device.

Images