The patent describes how video calling/streaming could work on a device with multiple displays and cameras. The company’s foldable device, Andromeda, could make use of the patent.
Microsoft is reportedly working on its foldable device codenamed Andromeda and the company has now received a new patent for a multi-screen device, which could be implemented on the device. The new patent, first spotted by WindowsLatest, was published earlier this month with the title “Three-way video calling on hinged multi-screen device” and it covers a dual-screen hinged device with “a processor, an accelerometer and a housing with two parts.” This housing with two parts refers to the two displays on the device, both of which have their own respective cameras.
There are some triggers and certain conditions, which when met will show video streamed by the two cameras, along with one from a remote device. This can be difficult to understand, so the company has also made an illustration of this scenario, which you can view below. As per the patent, users will be able to use the device by holding it in a variety of positions that includes holding it vertically, holding it with the primary screen facing towards the user, holding the screen with a second screen facing towards the user, and other positions and orientations. This means that the device can be used in various ways and the orientations could also have different applications.
The patent addresses a situation where "it may be difficult for users in the same physical space to be part of a video call when they are not in proximity to one another, especially when there are three or more participants. They may lose sight of each other or a remote user, and it may be difficult to tell if the users are in the frame of the cameras recording them." The patent was filed a year ago on June 30, 2017, and is assigned the number 'US 10015442'. Microsoft has apparently received the patent rights just after a previous report suggested that the device codenamed Andromeda is not a priority for the company.
The news of Microsoft putting project Andromeda on the back-burner came earlier this month. The company's executives have reportedly decided that some features of the Andromeda OS will not show up on the company’s future Windows 10 release, which is known as “Redstone 5.” The reason behind the cancellation is said to be partly because of scheduling and quality, but it is more so because the company is said to have “no compelling” reason for launching said smartphone in the market in its current iteration. You can read more on the device here.
Follow Us
Digit NewsDesk
Digit News Desk writes news stories across a range of topics. Getting you news updates on the latest in the world of tech. View Full Profile
