Integrating Location Sharing into Communication Apps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communications devices require users to launch a separate mapping application to send location information, which is inconvenient for users engaged in communication applications like email or instant messaging.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method within communication applications that allows users to send current location information directly from within these applications using GPS-enabled wireless devices, enabling the attachment or embedding of location data without needing to launch a mapping app, through features like dedicated hotkeys, reverse geocoding, and hyperlinked URLs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If users launch a separate mapping application to send location information, then location information can be sent accurately, but user convenience deteriorates and time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the location sharing functionality directly into the communication application by integrating GPS capabilities. Users can send their location through the communication app's attachment or emoji features without switching to a separate mapping application, thus combining two previously separate functions into one unified interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication application is enhanced with multi-functionality by incorporating GPS location determination and map generation capabilities. The single application now serves both communication purposes and location sharing purposes, eliminating the need for separate dedicated applications.
2Measurement precision
If users launch a separate mapping application to send location information, then location information can be sent accurately, but time is lost due to application switching
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the location sharing functionality directly into the communication application by integrating GPS capabilities. Users can send their location through the communication app's attachment or emoji features without switching to a separate mapping application, thus combining two previously separate functions into one unified interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically determining the user's GPS location and preparing map images in advance. When the user selects the location sharing feature, the system has already positioned the GPS receiver and can quickly generate or retrieve the appropriate map image, reducing the time required at the moment of sharing.
3Measurement precision
If GPS receiver is continuously active to provide real-time location, then location accuracy is maintained, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous operation, the GPS receiver is activated periodically or on-demand based on user interaction with the communication application. The system determines location only when needed for sharing, rather than maintaining continuous real-time tracking, thus reducing energy consumption while providing accurate location information when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The system intelligently manages GPS activation based on application context and user behavior patterns. The GPS receiver is activated automatically when location sharing is initiated through the communication app, and the system manages the entire process including activation, data collection, and deactivation without requiring continuous manual intervention or persistent operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method performed in a wireless communications device for transmitting current location information representing a current location of the wireless communications device. A message interface for a communication application being executed on the wireless communications device is displayed. In response to receiving input via the communication application being executed on the wireless communications device, the current location information is generated and included in a message generated using the message interface, wherein the current location information comprises map image data representing the current location of the wireless communications device. The message with the current location information is then transmitted.