IP News
Home > IP News
Apple Granted Patent for Potential Gear VR Killer
From smartphones to smartwatches, Apple usually lets other companies enter a category first before it dives in, and the same might be true for virtual reality headsets. The company was awarded a patent on Tuesday (Feb. 17) for a head-mounted display that could be powered by an iPhone, resulting in a system very similar to Samsung's Gear VR.
According to Apple Insider, Apple first filed for the device way back in September of 2008, just a year after the first iPhone debuted. The patent says that "the portable electronic device may be operatively coupled to the head-mounted device such that the portable electronic device and head mounted device can communicate and operate with one another." Again, just like the Gear VR.
MORE: Samsung Gear VR Review: Virtual Reality with a Smartphone
The most intriguing bit about the concept is that it includes a remote control, which looks similar to an Apple TV remote. This accessory would allow the user to control on-screen content, although it's possible Apple is also working on gesture-based controls. The Gear VR uses a touchpad mounted on the headset itself, but it also supports Bluetooth-enabled gaming controllers.
To continue reading, click here.
(These latest Intellectual Property (IP) news and events presented here, are prepared and compiled by us, the World Patent & Trademark Law Office (WPTO),for your reference and information)