Apple may build smoke detectors into future Macs and iOS devices, according to a patent application published Thursday.
As users move toward the smart home, courtesy of services like Apple’s HomeKit, the idea is that Macs, iPhones and iPads could intelligently monitor for signs of a fire and trigger various mechanisms accordingly.
This could mean sending users a text or email alerting them of the danger, calling 911 for emergency assistance, or even activating fire suppression equipment.
Apple’s wireless smoke detector patent application is based on a light detection system, with in-build light sensors determining if beams of light are illuminating smoke particles, or whether a certain location is smoke-free.
If smoke or a fire is detected, the Apple device can not only work out where in the home it is, but also alert other Apple devices — so that your iPhone could be set to automatically wake you because your MacBook Air has detected a possible fire in your kitchen.
This isn’t the first high-tech concept Apple has filed for dealing with fires. A recent patent shows that the company has been investigating new halogen free, flame-retardant materials for use in future devices.
It seems someone in Cupertino has their eye on safety!
Via: Patently Apple
