Apple's Newest Patent Could Prevent Recording At Concerts
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – Imagine having a phone that could shut off without notice depending on where you are?
On Tuesday, Apple was granted a patent that reveals how the company is planning to block iPhone cameras from taking photos and videos.
According to CBS News, Apple's patent would allow infrared technology to be used to temporarily deactivate iPhone cameras in certain locations.
Specifically, the technology would be used in concerts where artists and promoters benefit from having exclusive rights to content.
In the patent, Apple's describes how the technology would work: "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."
But how do users feel about the company shutting down this functionality without their permission? And how do users know it will only be used for concerts?
In simpler terms, you don't.
The move while seemingly harmless can have a snowball effect. What starts off as a way to prevent pirating in concerts can evolve into a way to block protests, riots, or any event deemed sensitive to a person or party.
CBS News says repressive regimes could potentially use it to block the public from seeing and hearing protests from opponents they wanted to shut down.
In contrast, in May Adele stopped a concert to tell a fan to put down the technology and enjoy the performance.