Apple applies for patent that scales content to match face distance, save us from squinting

Apple tries for patent that scales content to match face distance, save us from squinting

Most software has to be designed around a presumed viewing distance, whether it’s up close for a smartphone or the 10-foot interface of a home theater hub. Apple has been imagining a day when the exact distance could be irrelevant: it’s applying for a patent that would automatically resize any content based on viewing distance. By using a camera, infrared or other sensors to detect face proximity through facial recognition or pure range, the technique could dynamically resize a map or website to keep it legible at varying ranges. Although the trick could work with most any device, the company sees that flexibility as most relevant for a tablet, and it’s easy to understand why — iPad owners could read on the couch without needing to manually zoom in as they settle into a more relaxed position. There’s no knowing the likelihood that Apple will implement an automatic scaling feature in iOS or OS X, let alone make it the default setting. If the Cupertino team ever goes that far, though, we’ll only have our own eyesight to blame if we can’t read what’s on screen.

Filed under: Cellphones, Laptops, Tablets, Mobile, Apple

Apple applies for patent that scales content to match face distance, save us from squinting originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 15 Nov 2012 11:14:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink   |  sourceEmail this | Comments

Related posts

Latest posts

OnePlus’ new health lab is a big step for its wellness technology

OnePlus's new health lab in China is officially open.

I can’t decide if the Garmin Instinct 3 is a winner or a flop

After a week with the Instinct 3, I'm struggling to decide if I should be content with more of the

Nvidia might never top the RTX 4090

Nvidia's RTX 4090 stands as a crowning achievement for Team Green, and it might never be dethroned again.

Leaked OnePlus timeline suggests at least four new devices this year

A newly leaked roadmap of 2025 OnePlus releases suggests at least four new devices this year, not including the OnePlus Open 2.

Google just opened the door for people to do evil with AI

Don't Be Evil has flown the coop for good.

The Galaxy S25 Ultra’s S Pen gets wonky with magnetic accessories on

The Galaxy S25 Ultra's S Pen might not work properly with magnetic cases attached.

Gurman: New iPhone SE Coming ‘This Week’

Apple plans to announce a new iPhone SE this week, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.In his Power On newsletter today,

Gurman: New iPhone SE Coming ‘This Week’

Apple plans to announce a new iPhone SE this week, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.In his Power On newsletter today,

Valentine’s Day Deals: Get All-Time Low Prices on AirPods, iPad, Apple Watch, and More

We're less than one week away from Valentine's Day, which falls on Friday, February 14, this year. Similar to years

Valentine’s Day Deals: Get All-Time Low Prices on AirPods, iPad, Apple Watch, and More

We're less than one week away from Valentine's Day, which falls on Friday, February 14, this year. Similar to years