Apple Patents Technology That Could Prevent You From Filming, Taking Photos at Concerts

In 2009, Apple applied for a patent on a sophisticated new camera technology using infrared signals. When the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office published the application in 2011, reports focused on how the technology could, among other things, block people from taking photos and filming concerts. Yesterday, Apple won approval for the patent, as 9to5Mac and Patently Apple were first to note. 

According to the patent, the technology allows a camera to detect not just visible light, but also infrared data. In some cases, the device could use the infrared data to show a user information related to a nearby object, such as an exhibit in a museum. In other cases, the device could use the infrared data to disable the device's recording functions. As an example, the patent includes an illustration of a band performing onstage as a camera screen shows the text "RECORDING DISABLED." (See it below.)

As The New York Times reported back in 2011, "The recording industry could easily use this technology to disable a camera during a music concert by blasting an infrared signal from the stage and in turn disabling an iPhone from recording the concert for purposes of sharing it online, violating copyright laws."

An Apple spokesperson declined to comment to Pitchfork. Apple and other companies frequently file for patents, many of which never reach the market.

via Marc Hogan