In-box Software Updates via Peer-to-Peer Wireless
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for updating mobile device software after manufacturing are inefficient and costly, as they require manual intervention and cannot be performed within sealed packaging, leading to delayed software updates that affect store efficiency and customer experience.
Innovation Solution
A method that allows for in-box software updates by using peer-to-peer wireless protocols to connect the device to a network, authenticate, and download updates without opening the packaging, utilizing device identifiers and certificates to ensure secure and authorized connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If software updates are performed after device purchase, then the device can receive updated software, but the update process occupies store space and employee time, reducing store efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs software updates in advance during manufacturing before the device is packaged and shipped to retail stores. The device receives and installs software updates while still in the manufacturing facility, so that when the device reaches the customer, it already has current software without requiring additional update time at the store.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the software update process from the retail environment and relocates it to the manufacturing environment. By separating the update operation from the sales process, the store no longer needs to dedicate space, equipment, or employee time to perform updates, eliminating the conflict between software currency and store efficiency.
2Reliability
If software updates are performed after device purchase, then the device can receive updated software, but the update process requires significant time for download and installation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs software updates in advance during manufacturing before the device is packaged and shipped to retail stores. The device receives and installs software updates while still in the manufacturing facility, so that when the device reaches the customer, it already has current software without requiring additional update time at the store.
3Reliability
If the device packaging is opened to perform updates, then the device can be updated, but the packaging must be compromised, risking security and theft
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs software updates in advance during manufacturing before the device is packaged and shipped to retail stores. The device receives and installs software updates while still in the manufacturing facility, so that when the device reaches the customer, it already has current software without requiring additional update time at the store.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses wireless communication to transmit update information and commands to the device without physical contact or opening of packaging. The update data is copied wirelessly through the air interface, allowing the sealed package to remain intact while still enabling the update process.
4Reliability
If manual update processes are used in stores, then devices can be updated, but more employees and larger store spaces are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the software update process from the retail environment and relocates it to the manufacturing environment. By separating the update operation from the sales process, the store no longer needs to dedicate space, equipment, or employee time to perform updates, eliminating the conflict between software currency and store efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables devices to perform self-updates during manufacturing through automated processes. The device automatically receives update commands, downloads update packages, and installs updates without requiring manual intervention from employees, reducing the need for trained staff and simplifying store operations.
Data Source
AI summary
In some implementations, the device may include exiting a shelf-life mode and turning on a peer-to-peer wireless protocol in response to detecting a power source. A device identifier can be provided to a host device via the peer-to-peer wireless protocol. A connection ticket authorizing the electronic device to connect to a wide area network can be received from the host device via the peer-to-peer wireless protocol. The connection ticket can be being generated by a server system using a private key. The connection ticket may include the device identifier associated with the electronic device. A connection to a wide area network can be requested from an access point using a network wireless protocol. A software update can be performed over the wide area network via the access point.