Apple comes forth with innovative Force Sensor Mouse!

With an Apple patent filing that was uncovered on last Thursday, it displays the latest and new kind of advanced mouse, which employs sensors that can measure the location plus the level of force that is being applied on its main button. It also indicated the pressure that is exerted on its haptis system to provide one with feedback.

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office published Apple’s novel application regarding the ‘Force Sensing Mouse’. This mouse does not only provide you with an estimate on how hard the user has applied pressure on it but also through the system of haptic vibrations sends forth a confirmation feedback.

This operation is principally built on the system of strain gauge, which is fixed to the beam or the cantilever arm. The design is quite similar to the usual Apple mouse designs, and comes with one large single top section, which tends to act as a button. The accessory can very easily transfer force through this arm section moving straight in to the sensor mode.

For example, if a particular user presses down hard on the mouse, the cantilever arm may bend a little twist or even flex. This way it ends up distorting the strain gauge, which in turn outputs a certain level of voltage that is translated into a kind of input signal. By processing through the voltage output, the mouse can gauge the kind of force that is applied by the user thus creating accordingly, control signal.
The effective haptic feedback is an electromagnet, which is disposed in the body of the mouse in such a way that it out rightly hits the top portion the moment it is activated. On the other hand, the well-rooted embedded vibration motors is placed in several positions around the mouse, so that it can come about with the apt and accurate level of feedback.

Practically, a user tends to move a UI cursor on top of a particular icon and then exerts pressure on first force, to select the related asset. This way it will immediately trigger the feedback forcefully. If the level of pressure is a bit harder, it tends to induce pressure on the execution of command, for instance, when you open a folder or any kind of app, you will notice that the mouse tends to respond with a more intensive vibration. In this way the user gets to navigate, select and then activate different kinds of graphical assets by the system of one button press, hence getting hold of feedback all through the way.

Apple has also kept a note about its pivot-style orientation design, which might tend to bring in a bit of distortion while reading, because the force transferred through the cantilever beam is relatively, where more force gets transferred when it is nearer to the mechanical elements of the mouse. Thus to mend this issue and to pinpoint finger location, this particular discovery proposes to deploy a touch sensor, just as the one that is available in Apple's Magic Mouse.

Apple’s iOS – Spyware Proof Mobile Operating System

Apple has come out as the spyware proof mobile operating system in a test which had been conducted by surveillance software and hardware vendor.According to recent reports from Gamma Group, FinSpy spyware with the capabilities of hacking its way into a BlackBerry, an Android and older versions of Windows Phone was unable to hack an iOS unless the device has been tampered. FinSpy is the surveillance software which is marketed by Lench IT Solutions PLC along with UK based branch Gamma International Ltd in Andover, England as well as a German based branch Gamma International GmbH in Munich.

The spyware is marketed through law enforcement channels and Gamma International being a subsidiary of the Gamma Group, specializes in monitoring and surveillance inclusive of equipment, training services and software.This software can be installed on targeted computers to exploit security lapses in update procedures on unsuspected software.

Details have been leaked from the Gamma Group that a piece of its spyware FinSpy had been used to find out if various mobile platform could hold back snooping attempts made on phone calls, contacts as well as other data, wherein in the document envisaged by Washington Post and considered by Cult of Mac, FinSpy is said to be designed to help Law Enforcement and the Intelligence Agencies to monitor remotely, tablet and mobile phones devices.

FinSpy Capable of Full Access 

The software suite is marketed in Arabic, English, German, Portuguese, French and Russian, all across the globe at trade shows, offering intelligence support, ISS training as well as products to law enforcement and intelligence agencies.

It has the capabilities of taking control of target computers as well as capture encrypted data and communication with the use of enhanced remote deployment methods which can be installed on target computers and FinSpy can obtain full access to all phone calls, address book, text messages as well as microphone through silent phone calls.

Moreover it also has the potential to trace a device anddetermine its location. FinSpy has gained a lot of reputation since it is being used by law enforcement and government agencies as a powerful though a controversial tool for snooping into mobile devices and hence the ranking of iOS in the Gamma Group’s document from April, is a possible Apple security.

FinSpy Possible only Through Jailbreak

From the major mobile platforms cited in the document all were susceptible to FinSpy and the spyware was capable to access its way into Android of all versions, BlackBerry, Symbian as well as Windows Mobile 6.1 and 6.5, though Windows Phone 8 is not supported so far by the software.

As per Gamma team, the iOS version 4.3 x, 5 x, 6 x, and 7.0 x seemed to be vulnerable to FinSpy which was possible only through jailbreak and as per their observations and explanation, it states that the iOS target can only be installed if it is jailbroken devices.

Generally, Apple’s security are considerable tight especially in the mobile world, though not impregnable and researchers at Georgia Tech have reportedly made a way to hack an iOS device according to Wired source, through one caveat, wherein a USB can be connected to a hacked computer

Apple’s Upcoming Plans for HealthKit

It was reported that Apple had held talks regarding its plans for HealthKit and the upcoming services, with several companies which include the Cleveland Clinic, Mount Sinai, and Johns Hopkins together with the medical records providers Allscripts and Epic Systems.It was revealed by Apple that the HealhKit would be a framework that would be available to third parties for aggregation of data and for storage and would subsequently be available through a corresponding app known as `Health’, hoping that the HealthKit could serve as central hub for information obtained from third-party medical apps and hardware.

 Apple has already started working with the Mayo Clinic, Nike and Epic and it seems that other industry players are also keen in tying up their services as well, with the iOS based platform. According to sources, Apple is trying to keep away from regulatory hold ups since with the partnerships, the responsibility of keeping highly sensitive medical records and data private is very essential.

 For instance, Apple’s developer relations branch has been working with app makers such as iHealth Labs, who is the developer of specialized activity trackers as well as fitness related apps. Jim Taschetta, iHealth’s Chief Marketing officer indicates that consumer privacy issues are paramount to the HealthKit initiative.

Incorporate iCloud for Data Storage

He also offers examples of toggle which enables users to choose if they would prefer third party apps or healthcare providers to share sensitive data with HealthKit. From the technical side of Health, an Apple associate stated that the company has plans to incorporate iCloud for the purpose of data storage and informed Reuters that the data transfer and storage would be fully encrypted to Apple’s server.

Moreover, the backend of HealthKit would be designed in a way that providers would be responsible for patient’s privacy and not Apple. Apple has been in consultation or hired health experts as well as legal professionals to navigate the data privacy and regulatory policies outlined by the government agencies, in order to bring the HealthKit to the market.

The Food and Drug Administration – FDA, revealed that in June, it had discussions on mobile medical application with Apple over several meetings but details with regards to the upcoming rollout was not yet disclosed.

FDA to Work Closely with Apple

The FDA has stated that Apple will be working closely with them as they develop products in the future. They have further stated that the earlier FDA is involved and advising and Apple would be less likely to be caught by surprise in future when they intend to release a new product, and if that product must be regulated.

It was also reported, earlier this year that Apple executive were planning to meet with the FDA over same issues. HealthKit, with its robust data sharing as well as collection capabilities would be moving into uncharted water for massive distributed consumer solution and as such its launch may come across some complications with existing privacy laws and Apple on their part are preparing to work hard in order to prevent these types of incidents.

Portable Device Connected to Cellular Network

Improvements in technology, gave rise to internet which is being used by all individuals at large. Earlier the access was limited to computers and laptop or a tablet which has now improved with the access through mobile devices as well. Internet can now be accessed while on the go and users can get connected to the web through Wi-Fi connection.

MiFi is one type of a portable device which can be connected to a cellular network while providing internet access for devices. It allows multiple users together with mobile devices in sharing a 3G or 4G mobile broadband internet connection creating an ad-hoc network. Staying connected especially when one is travelling or on a holiday is now made easy and economical with the aid of MiFi that enables to have access to the internet by wireless technology.

MiFi a brand name is used to describe a wireless router which can act as a mobile Wi-Fiand provides internet access to any Wi-Fi enabled peripheral device up to a distance of 30 ft.Being a portable Wi-Fi, it enables the user to connect up to five devices at the same time. People travelling to Spain for work or leisure, can use the facility of MiFi through www.alldayinternetspain.com and stay connected to the internet easily without any interruption, which is not very costly. 

Spanish 3G/4G – Economical Roaming Cost

Internet can be surfed through the Spanish 3G/4G network without the need of paying high roaming cost while travelling. User can reserve the portable device and keep the service provider updated on their arrival date as well as the return date and have the benefit of getting it delivered at their desired destination of either their hotel or the rental flat and get connected with the internet in Spain.

The portal device is delivered in a package which also contains a self-addressed stamped envelope to put in the device after they have finished the use of it. The user is instructed to put the same in a mailbox or could use the option of seeking the help of the hotel associate in delivering the package to the mail carrier. The said package could also be sent to the airport since every Spanish airport has a mailbox.

Device Light/Easy to Use

The device is easy to use wherein it can be connected to the Wi-Fi in the iPhone, Android, Windows8, laptop, tablet, PSP etc. Once connected one can engage in surfing the internet in Spain. The device is very light and covers almost 98 percent of Spain. They can stay connected with their family and friends through WhatsApp or Skype, or even update the trip details on social network like Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and avoid unwanted expense by disconnecting the roaming option.

On disconnecting the roaming option, users can saved from being overcharged by internet cost while they travel from one location to another. This portable device proves to be of immense help while travelling, enabling them to stay connected or even coping up with the task which needs to be done through the internet besides keeping their family and friends updated through WhatsApp and other means of communicating.

US Patent Office Rejects Apple Auto Complete Patent Used Against Samsung

Over the years, the market for mobile devices has experienced several ups and downs. Different mobile Companies has faced legal and monetary crisis. In recent times, another legal complication has hit the world of smart phones. The war has ended overseas but it is still raging in the US. This new chapter has begun with the Apple Vs Samsung patent-infringement trials.

BACKGROUND:

Although settled elsewhere, the battle over the patent is still raging in the US. The US Patent and Trademark Office have most recently rejected all the claims Apple made about a patent against Samsung. This was done on the grounds that certain portions of the claim were not valid. The patent is about ‘autocomplete’ feature that help the user generate word suggestions based on what the user been typing.

THE VERDICT:

The final stand on this particular case is not yet out. The word on the street is that Apple will be able to present their case all over again with more and relevant information. The preliminary ruling will in no way have an effect on the judgement passed by the district court about infringement. The whole process to settle down completely might take a very long time. It could be days, months or even a few years.

On the other hand, Samsung last Thursday have presented their case and the decision of the US Patent and Trademark Office to the court on the grounds that it is by far relevant to Samsung’s claim over invalidity defences for the 172 patent.

Neither Apple nor Samsung are willing to comment on this issue. The legal fight that is currently going on is getting complicated over time and is no more about the money involved. Although, damages have affected both the parties involved. The real battle is over the market. Who get the rule the mobile market is something to look forward to. Either it could go to the South Korean Company – Samsung, who are the leading producer of smart phones or it could go to number two. For now, both continue dominating the smart phone and tablet market.

HISTORY:

All of it started in the year 2011, in the month of April with Apple filling a suit against Samsung. The initial trial was in the month of August 2012. Apple won the first round with nine-person jury supporting Apple’s claim and Apple was awarded compensation for all the damages caused. Samsung asked for counter suit but unfortunately, for them they did not receive anything.

A new trial is under process to recalculate the damages involved in the month of March, 2013. Again, in the month of November, Apple was awarded additional compensation for the damages caused. The last trial took place in the month of May, this increased complications further for both sides asked for compensation.

No decisions are taken as of now. The silence prevails for now. No matter what the decision is, it will change the market forever.