Apple has patented some enhanced pedometer tech ahead of a potential Apple Watch launch.
The patent was published with the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and details a wrist-worn pedometer that offers enhanced processing algorithms.
Entitled “Wrist Pedometer Step Detection”, the patent basically details what it says on the tin.
Apple’s enhanced pedometer is capable of detecting the amount of steps you have taken based on your location.
It’s patent is pretty complex, but it takes the current in-built pedometers to another level.
Currently, devices like the Nike Fuelband SE and other fitness trackers, take step readings from built-in tri-axis accelerometers that measure your movements while the device is placed on your wrist.
This technology is based on your peak magnitude and step frequency, but isn’t always competent enough to take into account that it may have missed a few steps. This can be triggered by motion interference, like when you wear a fitness tracker on your wrist your arm swings may corrupt the data slightly.
However, Apple’s patent outlines technology that may prove to be far more accurate than the current offerings. The proposed tech translates the intelligently analysed raw data into steps taken and distance travelled
The pedometer could convert your motion data into acceleration magnitude and uses that to work out the main frequency of your pace. This is combined with your location to see if the two correlate.
This means that the pedometer would be capable of constantly adjusting and counting extra steps it has missed.
Apparently, the Apple pedometer can be worn anywhere on your body, which could suggest the Apple iWatch could come in a form not dissimilar from the Misfit Shine.
The patent also outlines automatic wrist detection, where the device uses fast Fourier transform (FFT) frequencies to detect when you put it on your wrist. This can also be used to detect when you start running as well.
Next, let us know what Apple iWatch features you’d like to see
Via: Apple Insider
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Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
