Ford's Case Design Turns a Phone into a Vehicle Key Fob
Laura McQuarrie — December 14, 2017 — Autos
References: freepatentsonline & fordauthority
Ford was recently granted a patent for a new kind of smartphone case design that boasts integrated electronics to have one's phone double as a vehicle key fob.
As outlined in the details of the patent, the device is meant to be able to communicate with the smartphone via Bluetooth or NFC technology, providing access to a virtual key fob on the screen of a smartphone. With this phone case, drivers would be able to lock and unlock their vehicle, as well as perform other actions, such as opening the trunk. Ford also details that the phone case could be activated automatically with a driver being in a certain proximity to their vehicle.
The introduction of this multipurpose phone case has the potential to help consumers carry—or lose—fewer items.
As outlined in the details of the patent, the device is meant to be able to communicate with the smartphone via Bluetooth or NFC technology, providing access to a virtual key fob on the screen of a smartphone. With this phone case, drivers would be able to lock and unlock their vehicle, as well as perform other actions, such as opening the trunk. Ford also details that the phone case could be activated automatically with a driver being in a certain proximity to their vehicle.
The introduction of this multipurpose phone case has the potential to help consumers carry—or lose—fewer items.
Trend Themes
1. Integrated Smartphone Security - The integration of a smartphone with car keys will revolutionize security measures in the automobile industry.
2. Bluetooth Technology in Phone Cases - The use of Bluetooth technology in phone cases will enable wider integration of phone accessories with other devices.
3. Virtual Key Fob Development - The development of virtual key fobs will simplify key management for car owners and encourage wider mobile device usage in car-based transactions.
Industry Implications
1. Automobile - The automobile industry can benefit greatly from the integration of electronic phone cases in enhancing customer experience and reducing physical key management.
2. Mobile Devices - The mobile device industry will experience increased demand for devices with Bluetooth or NFC technology, due to their ability to integrate devices with other non-phone accessories and devices.
3. Accessories - The phone accessory industry can leverage on the virtual key fob functionality, by developing and marketing other non-key functionalities that can be accessed on a mobile device.
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