Multitasking View Preview Image for Cross-Device Task Continuity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face challenges in seamlessly transitioning tasks between different devices, such as phones and tablets, while maintaining continuity and efficiency in user interaction.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that receive task information and preview images from a first device, display a multitasking view on a second device, and enable actions such as copying content or selecting applications to continue tasks, allowing users to efficiently switch between devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If users manually transfer tasks between devices, then task continuity can be maintained, but user time and interaction efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically detecting tasks on the first device, generating preview images, and preparing task information before the user actually needs to switch devices. The second device proactively receives and processes task data, so when the user wants to switch devices, the task transfer is already prepared and can be completed instantly through simple selection rather than manual transfer operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a visual copy (preview image) of the task interface from the first device and displays it on the second device. This copy contains sufficient visual information for the user to identify the task without needing to physically observe the first device screen, enabling quick recognition and selection. The task information is also copied and transferred to enable immediate continuation on the second device.
2Productivity
If device switching is simplified, then user interaction efficiency improves, but task information accuracy and visual confirmation are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates and transmits a preview image that is a visual copy of the task interface from the first device. This preview image is displayed on the second device, providing the user with visual confirmation of the task content without needing to look at the first device. The copy preserves essential visual information including task interface elements, content preview, and contextual details, enabling informed decision-making during device switching.
Solution Approach 2:
The preview image acts as an intermediary between the first device's task interface and the user's decision-making process. Instead of requiring direct observation of the first device screen or relying on text-only descriptions, the preview image mediates by providing a visual representation that bridges the gap between devices, allowing users to confirm task identity and content accuracy during the switching process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple devices are used for different tasks, then task specialization is improved, but device transition complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements multi-functionality by enabling the same task management capabilities across different device types. The second device can receive and display preview images from various first devices (phones, tablets, laptops), and the task continuation functionality works across different device form factors. This universal approach allows users to switch between any devices in their ecosystem without learning device-specific procedures, reducing switching complexity while maintaining task specialization benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The preview image copying mechanism provides a consistent visual interface across different device combinations. Whether switching from phone to tablet, laptop to phone, or any other device pair, the system generates and transfers appropriate preview images that adapt to the target device's display capabilities. This standardized copying approach simplifies the switching process across diverse device configurations while preserving task-specific functionality.
Data Source
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AI summary
According to an aspect, there is provided a method and an apparatus for providing a multitasking view. Task information of a task executed on a first device and a preview image of the executed task is received. The preview image comprises at least partly a task view on a display of the first device. A multitasking view is provided on a display of a second device, and the multitasking view comprises tasks currently executed by the second device as well as the preview image of the task executed by the first device. A user of the second device is then able to select the preview image to initiate a further action.