Messaging Audio Streaming via External Output Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing messaging systems do not facilitate the streaming of audio content from one user's device to another user's device, particularly when the recipient is listening via an external audio output device, which limits user engagement and interaction.
Innovation Solution
A messaging system that allows users to stream audio from one device to another by detecting when a user is using an external audio output device, providing a user-selectable button for streaming, saving the audio as a file, and adding a link to the message thread for later access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If audio streaming functionality is added to messaging systems, then user engagement and interaction are enhanced, but device complexity and system requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines audio streaming functionality with the existing messaging system by integrating audio capture, streaming control, and playback features into the messaging application interface. This merging allows users to stream audio during message exchanges without requiring separate dedicated audio streaming devices or systems, thereby enhancing versatility while managing device complexity through integration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If audio streaming is enabled when external audio output devices are connected, then audio sharing capability is improved, but control and management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects when an external audio output device is connected and enables the audio streaming button accordingly. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual configuration or complex user settings, as the system autonomously manages audio output routing based on device connection status, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining audio output flexibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If audio files are saved and linked in message threads, then user interaction is enhanced, but data storage and management requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates and stores audio files locally on user devices and generates shareable links that reference these stored files. Rather than transmitting or duplicating audio data across the network with each message, the system maintains local copies and shares access through links, thereby enhancing audio sharing functionality while minimizing network data transmission and centralized storage requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure involve a system comprising a computer-readable storage medium storing a program and method for streaming audio between devices. The program and method provide for receiving, from a first device associated with a first user, an indication that audio output of the first device is via an external audio output device; providing the indication to a second device associated with a second user, the first user and the second user corresponding to contacts in a messaging application; receiving, from the second device and in response to the providing, audio input and a request to stream the audio input to the first device; and providing, to the first device, the audio input for streaming on the first device.