Type of Article: MacTech Blog

An Apple patent (number 20120243748) has been filed for systems, methods and program products for image capture and manipulation, especially in regards to video chats and calls.

Here’s Apple’s background and summary of the invention: “Many software applications now accept image data including animated icons such as head shots to identify, for example, the sender of an electronic mail message, an Internet chat buddy, or to identify a caller on a voice-over-IP communication link. Novice computer users may not know how to associate their picture with these applications.

Apple has filed a patent (number 20120242701) for “accessory dependent display orientation” with the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office. Systems and methods are provided for orienting a display of a user device display screen.

Apple has filed a patent (number 20120243153) for a “device foot” with the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office. A moveable device foot for an electronic device is described, such as that on the Magic Trackpad.

An Apple patent (number 2012042592 for an electronic device with flexible displays has appeared at the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office. We may be looking at future iPhones and iPads — perhaps even Macs — with “bendable” screens and tactile keyboards.

If Apple really is planning its own HDTV (the rumored “iTV”) for late this year or early 2013, it’s timing may be impeccable. The HDTV market will surge more than 10% next year, according to Global Information Inc. (www.giresearch.com).