Apple patents technology for deactivating iPhone cameras at live concerts

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This topic has 12 voices, contains 16 replies, and was last updated by  mcs5150 2821 days ago.

June 30, 2016 at 11:02 am Quote #53651

ron
(11464)

Apple patents technology for deactivating iPhone cameras at live concerts
Apple has patented a technology that would disable phones from working at gigs and shows
James Titcomb
29 June 2016 • 4:56pm

The nuisance of audience members ruining concerts and plays by recording them on their phones could soon be a thing of the past after Apple patented a technology that blocks the iPhone’s camera feature.

The company’s invention would allow venues to use an infrared beam to disable photography on mobile phones, preventing people from taking videos and photos.

The invention comes amid growing frustration that intimate live events are being spoiled by a sea of screens as visitors record videos in order to share them on social media.


Credit: US Patent and Trademark Office

Actor Benedict Cumberbatch recently pleaded with fans to stop filming while he performed in Hamlet, and the pop singer Adele told a female fan filming on her mobile at a concert in Italy to “enjoy it in real life rather than through your camera”.

Apple’s patent, which illustrates how an iPhone would become temporarily disabled during a rock concert, would require an infrared transmitter to be installed at shows.

When switched on, the patent says, the phone would simply display a “recording disabled” message when audience members attempt to take photographs or videos. Alternatively, a watermark or blur effect may be applied, to discourage people from sharing them.

It is unclear whether Apple intends to apply the technology to the iPhone, as companies often patent inventions without using them, but clamping down on recording would be welcomed by many artists and venues.

Other initiatives include shining lasers on visitors who use mobile phones during performances, which has become a popular tactic in cinemas in China and was recently adopted by London’s Jermyn Street Theatre.

If Apple’s technology is introduced, however, it could lead to fears that it would be used by oppressive regimes and law enforcement to prevent citizens documenting oppression.


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June 30, 2016 at 1:02 pm Quote #53653

Mink
(2663)

I don’t like it. I’m sure it begins with good intentions, but in time will become abused with power. Why should someone else be in control of what and when a person takes pictures or videos.



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June 30, 2016 at 2:43 pm Quote #53654

fleetwoodgak
(435)

I don’t like it either, although I agree that people do need to put their phone down and just watch, I don’t like the idea of being robbed of the opportunity to take a picture of the people you went to the show with….or whatever. Would the use the laser beam at sporting events?


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June 30, 2016 at 2:44 pm Quote #53655

mikeyV
(335)

Then you go back to old school bootlegging……………………….


The Ultimate in Van Halen Vinyl

Proud Member Since the First Year– Both VHTrading and the Band


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June 30, 2016 at 3:48 pm Quote #53656

Cut2TheCrash
(816)

http://entertainment.ie/music/news/Heading-to-Don-Henley-this-Friday-Youre-not-allowed-to-use-your-phone-or-even-TEXT-during-the-gig/382511.htm
Heading to Don Henley this Friday? You’re not allowed to use your phone or even TEXT during the gig

Don Henley plays Dublin’s 3Arena this weekend in what is sure to be a special gig.

However, it seems that the Eagles man is going to great lengths to enforce a ban on technology at the gig, as promoters have issued a notice asking people not only to avoid filming any part of the concert, but to avoid using their phone altogether. That includes texting and phone calls.

See below for the official notice.

VERY IMPORTANT additional information for ticket holders attending DON HENLEY this Friday 1 July – 3Arena, Dublin

VERY IMPORTANT:

- Any type of cameras and video / audio recorders are strictly prohibited.

- The use of mobile phones, cameras and recording devices is strictly prohibited in the auditorium during the performance. No audio or video recording or photography allowed.

- In order to maximise your enjoyment as well as the enjoyment of those around you, please turn off your mobile phones and other electronic devices during the concert.

- Please do not text during the concert.

- Please refrain from the use of any mobile device during the performance.

We appreciate your cooperation.

*****


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July 1, 2016 at 8:19 am Quote #53665

sickman
(2380)

Well, on the one hand I think this is a great idea. I absolutely hate watching a concert through the cell phone of the asshole in front of me holding his/her phone above there head. I like recording shows but the camera I use is never above my sight line and never obstructs the view of the people around me. It is so ridiculous when you see some one recording a show on their phone and they are waving it back and forth with their arms stretched in the air. You just know that when they watch that footage later it is totally unwatchable and they probably delete it.
I can see how people wouldn’t like it, like gak said above however they should keep it so you can still take pics and maybe limit the length of time the video will record. If people knew they could only record 10 second clips maybe they would put their phone in their pocket and enjoy the show.


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July 1, 2016 at 1:03 pm Quote #53668

frankm
(4888)

Whereas I can understand what they are trying to accomplish and I also find all the cellphones recording videos or taking pictures annoying … I don’t like this idea. I agree with Mink, “begins with good intentions, but in time will become abused with power”. I also agree with fleetwoodgak, “I don’t like the idea of being robbed of the opportunity to take a picture of the people you went to the show with”.

In regards to Don Henley and http://entertainment.ie/music/news/Heading-to-Don-Henley-this-Friday-Youre-not-allowed-to-use-your-phone-or-even-TEXT-during-the-gig/382511.htm … specifically “please turn off your mobile phones” … what about emergencies? I can understand silencing phones or limiting use but to prohibit use seems a bit extreme. I went to a concert once when my wife was pregnant you can bet I kept my phone close by.


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July 1, 2016 at 4:13 pm Quote #53670

cabosanlucas139
(1017)

Time to dump that controlling Apple shit :wink:


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July 1, 2016 at 10:40 pm Quote #53671

mrmojohalen
(6377)

Apple may end up losing customers to Samsung.

8-O


When you turn on your stereo, does it return the favor?


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July 2, 2016 at 5:26 pm Quote #53691

fleetwoodgak
(435)

And maybe it’s time to buy stock in Bic, in case”lighters” make a comeback!


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July 2, 2016 at 6:58 pm Quote #53695

VAiN
(2777)

This is ridiculous… no way apple, or any manufacturer, does this.


Resident dickhead. I will hurt your delicate feelings.


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July 5, 2016 at 9:31 pm Quote #53716

videoman320
(308)

But the venues will continue to sell people liquor til they are shit faced and thats ok. I just hope that the fans are protected by bands having to say they want the Apple block enforced at their shows. This way fans can choose not to by a ticket because of that if they choose.


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July 6, 2016 at 10:45 pm Quote #53722

mrmojohalen
(6377)

I bet they would let you film with your iphone if you paid extra in the form of a VIP package.


When you turn on your stereo, does it return the favor?


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July 7, 2016 at 8:03 am Quote #53727

sickman
(2380)

mrmojohalen: I bet they would let you film with your iphone if you paid extra in the form of a VIP package.

I wouldn’t put it past some acts. Front row VIP filming package $1000 and up.


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July 7, 2016 at 8:14 am Quote #53728

mcs5150
(1096)

sickman: I wouldn’t put it past some acts. Front row VIP filming package $1000 and up.

Damn! What bands are charging that much?


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