Sonos. has been granted a patent for a controller that modifies media playback based on user proximity to playback devices. The system allows for synchronized playback control of multiple devices, enhancing user interaction through a graphical interface that updates based on the user’s location relative to the devices. GlobalData’s report on Sonos gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.
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According to GlobalData’s company profile on Sonos, A/V playback synchronization was a key innovation area identified from patents. Sonos's grant share as of June 2024 was 60%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.
Proximity-based media playback control for multiple devices
The patent US12045452B2 describes a controller designed for media playback systems, which integrates a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium containing executable program instructions. The controller is configured to display a control interface through a graphical interface and to receive data from a first device indicating that two playback devices are grouped to play media content synchronously. It can also receive a wireless transmission from the first playback device, confirming the controller's proximity to it while being outside the proximity of the second playback device. Based on this information, the controller updates the control interface to show a group control interface that includes an identifier for the group and a characteristic of the playback devices, enabling simultaneous control of both devices.
Further claims detail the characteristics that may be displayed, such as the media item currently being played or queued for playback. The controller can also facilitate modifications to playback based on inputs received through the group control interface. Additionally, the claims specify that the first device can be either of the playback devices or a third device within the media playback system. The patent outlines a comprehensive method for the controller's operation, emphasizing its ability to manage multi-channel audio content and enhance user interaction with grouped playback devices.
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GlobalData, the leading provider of industry intelligence, provided the underlying data, research, and analysis used to produce this article.
GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.
