Audio Routing Interfaces With Automatic Device Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing techniques for managing audio output on electronic devices are cumbersome and inefficient, requiring multiple key presses or keystrokes, wasting user time and device energy, particularly in battery-operated devices.

Innovation Solution

Implementing faster and more efficient methods and interfaces for managing audio output by detecting audio devices and displaying selectable options based on predefined criteria, reducing the need for user inputs and conserving power.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If existing techniques are used to manage audio output, then audio output can be provided to devices, but the user interface becomes complex and time-consuming requiring multiple key presses

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaudio output managementVSAvoidtime for user input
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system proactively detects available audio devices and pre-presents routing options to the user before audio output is needed, eliminating the need for users to navigate complex menus when they need to switch devices. The audio device detection and option presentation happens automatically in the background, readying the system for quick user selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system automatically detects audio devices and determines whether to present routing options based on predefined criteria, reducing the need for user intervention. The system serves itself by monitoring device availability and intelligently deciding when user input is necessary, thereby simplifying the overall interaction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If existing techniques are used to manage audio output, then audio routing can be controlled, but device energy is wasted due to multiple user inputs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaudio routing controlVSAvoiddevice energy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs audio device detection and prepares routing options in advance, before the user needs to make a selection. This preliminary action reduces the number of processing cycles required when the user actually needs to change audio output, thereby conserving device energy during high-activity periods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system automatically monitors for audio devices and intelligently determines when to present routing options, reducing unnecessary processing and user interaction. This self-service approach minimizes energy-consuming operations by only activating full routing control when actually needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If existing techniques are used to manage audio output, then audio device connection can be established, but cognitive burden on user increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaudio device connectionVSAvoiduser cognitive burden
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides feedback to the user by presenting clear, context-aware audio routing options only when criteria are met. This feedback mechanism guides the user through the connection process without overwhelming them with unnecessary information, reducing cognitive burden while ensuring reliable device connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system extracts and presents only the relevant audio routing options based on detected devices and predefined criteria, removing unnecessary complexity from the user interface. Users see only the options that matter in their current context, significantly reducing cognitive load.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Data Source

PatentUS12423052B2User interfaces for audio routing
Publication Date: 2025.09.23 APPLE INC
  • US12423052B2 patent drawing
  • US12423052B2 patent drawing
  • US12423052B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure generally relates to user interface for audio routing. In some examples, a computer system detects an audio device and displays a selectable option in accordance with a determination that a set of criteria is met. The selectable option, when selected, enables the computer system to connect to the audio device and transmit audio data to the audio device.