Abstract: In one example, a controller of a camera is configured to detect a mechanical connection of an accessory for the camera through data received by a sensor. The accessory includes a physical component that performs a function for the camera. The function may replace an existing function of the camera or supplement an existing function of the camera. The controller identifies one or more identification marks on the accessory to determine an existence of the accessory or a position of the accessory. The controller may disable an existing function of the camera or modify a configuration of the camera based on the identification marks.

Abstract: In one example, a controller of a camera is configured to detect a mechanical connection of an accessory for the camera through data received by a sensor. The accessory includes a physical component that performs a function for the camera. The function may replace an existing function of the camera or supplement an existing function of the camera. The controller identifies one or more identification marks on the accessory to determine an existence of the accessory or a position of the accessory. The controller may disable an existing function of the camera or modify a configuration of the camera based on the identification marks.

Abstract: A method for providing quick access to functions from a locked screen may include receiving an indication of entry of an activation input at a user terminal while the user terminal is displaying a locked screen, causing a launch of an application associated with performance of a function associated with the application from the locked screen and without completion of an unlock procedure in response to the activation input, enabling the function to be performed while the activation input is provided, and causing the user terminal to revert to the locked screen in response to removal of the activation input. A corresponding apparatus and computer program product are also provided.

Abstract: Techniques for providing network services at an audio interface unit include determining, based on spoken sounds of a user of an apparatus received at a microphone of the apparatus, whether to present audio data received from a different apparatus. If it is determined to present the received audio data, then presentation of the received audio data at a speaker of the apparatus is initiated. In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a data communications bus; and logic encoded in one or more tangible media configured to performs the above steps. In some embodiments, the apparatus does not include a visual display and does not include a keypad of multiple buttons.

Abstract: A method for providing quick access to functions from a locked screen may include receiving an indication of entry of an activation input at a user terminal while the user terminal is displaying a locked screen, causing a launch of an application associated with performance of a function associated with the application from the locked screen and without completion of an unlock procedure in response to the activation input, enabling the function to be performed while the activation input is provided, and causing the user terminal to revert to the locked screen in response to removal of the activation input. A corresponding apparatus and computer program product are also provided.

Abstract: Techniques for providing network services at an audio interface unit include determining, based on spoken sounds of a user of an apparatus received at a microphone of the apparatus, whether to present audio data received from a different apparatus. If it is determined to present the received audio data, then presentation of the received audio data at a speaker of the apparatus is initiated. In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a data communications bus; and logic encoded in one or more tangible media configured to performs the above steps. In some embodiments, the apparatus does not include a visual display and does not include a keypad of multiple buttons.

Abstract: Techniques for providing network services at an audio interface unit includes receiving first data and second data. The first data indicates a first set of one or more contents for presentation to a user. The second data indicates a second set of zero or more contents for presentation to the user. An audio stream is generated based on the first data and the second data. Presentation is initiated of the audio stream at a speaker in an audio device of the user.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an opening mechanism for a mobile station. The mobile station includes a first portion foldably coupled to a second portion via a hinge region. The mobile station includes inner and outer surfaces, which are separated by opposing lateral edges provided therebetween. According to various embodiments, the opener is comprised of one or more opening members that extend axially from the first portion of the mobile station to the second portion. The one or more opening members include one or more laterally extending depressible portions. To open the mobile station, a user merely presses (or pinches) the one or more depressible portions laterally, inwardly, thereby driving the first portion of the mobile station to separate from the second portion.

Abstract: An improved body design for a mobile station or other electronic device is provided. Unlike conventional mobile station bodies, which are comprised of durable polymer shells that are rigidly joined together (e.g., by ultra-sonic welding, adhesives, etc.) to enclose operational elements and circuitry, a replaceable and enhanceable body structure comprised is provided that is comprised of one or more stacked elements. The stacked elements are positioned one atop the next in a facing relationship. In one embodiment, the stacked elements define one or more apertures for receiving and enclosing one or more operational elements (e.g. a display, a keypad, an antenna, a mobile station engine, etc.).

Abstract: A bangle or handle for supporting a mobile station that includes a continuous loop of resiliently compressible material. A portion of the length of the handle is configured to fit within a channel defined in a housing of the mobile station. A second length portion extends from the housing to form a loop of the handle that can be gripped by the user, or otherwise used to suspend the mobile station. The handle may also include a conducting element that extends through the loop and is in communication with a conducting contact of the loop. The conducting contact of the continuous loop can be positioned in overlying contact with a conducting contact of the housing of the mobile station. Such contact supplies power or signals to, and receives power or signals from, a device such as a light, fan, noise generator or camera, connected to the second length portion.