Mobile Device Control for Multiple Media Playback Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies lack the ability to efficiently control multiple media playback systems with a single mobile device, limiting user convenience and flexibility in accessing and consuming digital media across different locations.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that enable a mobile device to associate with multiple media playback systems, each identified by a unique household identifier (HHID), allowing the device to connect and control these systems based on received HHIDs, with priority determined by location or order of receipt.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a mobile device associates with multiple media playback systems using unique household identifiers, then user convenience and flexibility in controlling multiple systems are improved, but device complexity and connection management become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cloud-based server as an intermediary that manages household identifiers and facilitates connections between mobile devices and media playback systems. The server stores HHID mappings and enables automatic connection establishment, reducing the complexity of direct peer-to-peer management while improving ease of operation across multiple systems
2Adaptability or versatility
If the system enables seamless control across multiple locations and environments, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but the complexity of system integration and network management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal cloud-based control architecture that allows a single mobile device to control multiple media playback systems across different locations and environments. The system provides multi-functional capabilities including location-based automatic connection, manual system selection, and unified control interface, enabling seamless operation across diverse settings without proportionally increasing user-facing complexity
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments are provided for enabling a user to control multiple media playback systems with a single mobile device. The mobile device may connect with a first or second media playback system based on receiving a first or second household identifier (HHID), respectively. If the mobile device receives both the first and second HHIDs, the mobile device may connect with either the first or second media playback system based on a priority of the two systems. If neither the first nor second HHIDs are received by the mobile device, a user may be prompted to add a third media playback system if the mobile device receives a third HHID. The user interface of the mobile device may receive an input to connect the mobile device to the third media playback system, and a connection may be established between the mobile device and the third media playback system.