Apple has filed a patent for a "Smart Dock" that is designed to work with Siri, the voice assistant, for docked devices like the iPhone and iPad.
The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) published Apple's patent application, Thursday, and described in detail the full-function dock. The Smart Dock will apparently be capable of activating the voice recognition mode of a portable iDevice.
"A dock for a portable electronic device including a housing, a connector extending from the housing to connect the portable electronic device to the dock, a microphone integrated within the housing, and a processor. The processor is operatively coupled to receive audio input from the microphone, and in response to the audio input, transmit a message to the portable electronic device via the connector to activate a voice recognition mode of the portable electronic device," reads the patent description.
The Apple patent for "Smart dock for activating a voice recognition mode of a portable electronic device" described the accessory as unlike anything the company has manufactured to date. The proposed dock will likely include a speaker, a microphone and an in-built screen, but goes a step further than other third-party accessories by enabling access to Siri.
Possibly, the dock may operate like current versions; however, it could always be on the look out for voice prompts from a user. For example a user may set up a prompt like snapping of fingers or a particular word to make Siri start listening.
Users will supposedly be able to place calls, send messages, play a tune or create a calendar entry by simply speaking out loud. The Smart Dock will automatically respond, thanks to its "listening mode."
Currently, the docking solutions Apple provides for its iPhone and iPad are restricted to charging and line-out audio. However, the proposed dock is expected to have tactile controls or a touch panel, as well as a display to make it more user interactive. It is also believed to have buttons, a scroll wheel and other manual controls.
Rumors have been rife that Siri will be included in the impending Apple TVs. If the rumors bear fruition, then users will be able to transform their home into a seamless, Siri-controlled entertainment space.
