Multi-tasking Interface with Segmented Background Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional terminals require complex operations to switch applications between foreground and background during multi-tasking, especially during voice calls, lacking an intuitive method for user interaction.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for providing a multi-tasking interface that allows users to switch applications between foreground and background with a simple and intuitive interface, using a touch screen or key input to receive background switch inputs and display a background control interface, enabling seamless switching between tasks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a complex interface is used to control multi-tasking and switch applications, then the terminal can support multiple functions including multi-tasking and conference calls, but the operation becomes complex and not intuitive
Solution Approach 1:
The interface is segmented into distinct functional areas: a foreground application display area and a background control interface area. The background control interface is further segmented into task representations that can be individually selected. This segmentation allows users to easily distinguish between foreground and background operations, simplifying the multi-tasking control process while maintaining multiple functions.
Solution Approach 2:
A background control interface is introduced as an intermediary between the user and the background applications. This intermediary layer provides simplified controls for managing background tasks, including voice call processes. Instead of requiring users to navigate through complex foreground interfaces to control background applications, the intermediary background control interface directly manages these operations with intuitive gestures and displays.
2Productivity
If a user switches a voice call process to background to finish the call, then multi-tasking is achieved, but complex operations are required including selecting call end button after switching screens
Solution Approach 1:
The control functionality for background applications is extracted from the foreground application interface and placed into a dedicated background control interface. When a user switches a voice call to background, the extracted background control interface provides direct access to call management functions without requiring the user to return to the foreground call screen. This extraction eliminates the need to switch screens back and forth to perform call operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The background control interface is prepared in advance and displayed immediately when an application is switched to background. Control options for background applications, including voice call management, are pre-configured and presented to the user before any additional operations are needed. This preliminary preparation of the control interface allows users to manage background tasks directly without navigating through multiple screens or performing complex sequences of operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and an apparatus for providing a multi-tasking interface of a device such as a portable communication device are provided. The method for providing a multi-tasking interface of a terminal preferably includes: receiving background switch input switching an display of an application being executed in a foreground to a background; switching the display of the application to the background when the background switch input is received; displaying a background control interface; and switching the display of the application to the foreground when preset switch input is received through the background control interface.