Authentication Mode Control for Selective Mobile Device Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for controlling access to mobile devices do not adequately address the need for selective data and functionality access, particularly in situations where privacy and security are paramount, such as when shared with others or under duress.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a system that determines an authentication mode based on biometric or code-based authentication attempts, which corresponds to specific device operational modes, including limited access, distress, and quick launch modes, to control access to device functionality and data.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple authentication modes are implemented to provide selective access to device functionality and data, then security and privacy protection are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments authentication into multiple distinct modes (first authentication mode and second authentication mode), each with different security levels and access permissions. The system divides device functionality into restricted and unrestricted portions, allowing selective access based on authentication mode. This segmentation enables enhanced security through multiple authentication pathways without requiring complete system redesign.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic authentication mode selection where the system can switch between different authentication modes based on user input and device state. The authentication mode is not fixed but can be changed during operation, allowing the device to adapt security levels dynamically. This dynamic approach enables flexible security management without permanent system configuration changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple authentication modes are implemented to provide selective access, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal authentication framework that handles multiple authentication modes through a single integrated system. The same device processor and authentication mechanisms serve both the first and second authentication modes, allowing the system to perform multiple authentication functions without requiring separate dedicated hardware for each mode. This multi-functionality approach enhances adaptability while controlling complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If authentication modes block access to certain functionalities and data, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial action by blocking only specific portions of device functionality and data access rather than implementing complete system-wide restrictions. The first authentication mode provides access to restricted portions while the second mode provides access to unrestricted portions. This partial blocking approach maintains security for sensitive areas while preserving ease of operation for non-sensitive functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

4Reliability

If fingerprint-based authentication with specific digit combinations is implemented, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by assigning different security requirements to different authentication scenarios. Specific digit combinations in fingerprint authentication are mapped to different authentication modes based on the security level required for the current operation. Common digit combinations provide faster access for routine operations, while more complex combinations trigger enhanced authentication sequences for sensitive operations, creating locally optimized security-ease balances.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS12625933B2Controlling a device operational mode according to an authentication mode
Publication Date: 2026.05.12 QUALCOMM INC
  • US12625933B2 patent drawing
  • US12625933B2 patent drawing
  • US12625933B2 patent drawing

AI summary

This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for controlling a device operational mode. Some examples involve receiving an indication of an authentication attempt, determining an authentication mode corresponding with the authentication attempt and determining a device operational mode corresponding with the authentication mode. Responsive to determining that an authentication process corresponding with the authentication attempt completed successfully, a device operational mode corresponding with the authentication mode may be implemented. Examples of device operational modes include a limited access mode and a distress mode, both of which may involve blocking access to at least one type of device functionality or access to at least one type of data. The distress mode also may involve sending SOS data to one or more other devices. The quick launch mode may cause one or more selected software applications to initialize. Some authentication modes may involve obtaining fingerprint data from a specific combination of digits.