Apple was granted a patent yesterday allowing it to block filming or photography at concerts on iPhones. The tech giant first applied for the patent back in 2011. iPhone users could have their cameras remotely disabled by infrared transmitters at certain live events or exhibits. 9to5Mac reports: The patent describes the camera detecting an infrared signal and interpreting the data. One signal could be used to disable both still photography and video recording. For example, an infrared emitter can be located in areas where picture or video capture is prohibited, and the emitter can generate infrared signals with encoded data that includes commands to disable the recording functions of devices. An electronic device can then receive the infrared signals, decode the data and temporarily disable the device’s recording function based on the command. The same approach could be used to prevent video recording in movie theatres, and to block photography in sensitive locations. If it all sounds a bit negative, the same patent describes some more positive uses of the technology. In a museum, for example, the system could be used to automatically display information about the object you’re viewing or photographing. An infrared emitter can be located near an [...]
