Dynamic Location Authorization with Status Indicators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of modern mobile devices are concerned about the sharing of their private location data with third parties, and existing technologies lack mechanisms for users to control and understand how their location data is used by applications.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system that allows applications to specify location service authorization types through an API, enabling users to choose when their location data is shared, with customizable authorization dialogs and status indicators, providing users with more control and transparency over location data usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If applications can access location data freely, then application functionality is improved, but user privacy protection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic authorization where applications can request different levels of location access (when-in-use vs. always) based on actual needs. The system transitions from static permission models to dynamic, context-aware authorization that adjusts location data access based on application state and user preferences.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by providing differentiated authorization levels for different applications and contexts. Instead of uniform permission granting, the system allows granular control where each application receives appropriate location access based on its specific functional requirements and trust level.
2Ease of operation
If users are provided with detailed authorization options, then user control over location data is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the authorization system into distinct, manageable components: authorization types (when-in-use, always), authorization dialogs, status indicators, and API interfaces. This segmentation allows complex functionality to be broken down into modular elements that can be independently managed and understood.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary elements such as standardized APIs and system-managed authorization dialogs that mediate between user preferences and application requests. These intermediaries simplify the interface while managing the underlying complexity of location data access control.
3Measurement precision
If applications request continuous location updates, then application accuracy is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic location update mechanisms where the frequency and continuity of location requests are adjusted based on application state. Applications can request location updates continuously when in use, but the system can reduce or suspend updates when applications are backgrounded, optimizing energy usage while maintaining accuracy when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
An application can specify a location service authorization type to be enforced by a mobile device. After the user authorizes the location service through an authorization dialog, the application can receive location service according to the authorization type. A first authorization type allows the application to receive continuous location updates and location events from a location service on the mobile device only when the application is in use. A second authorization type allows the application to always receive continuous location updates and location events when the application is running in a foreground or background. A status indicator can be displayed to indicate the authorization associated with a received location service.