GOOGLE LLC patent applications published on November 30th, 2023

Summary of the patent applications from GOOGLE LLC on November 30th, 2023

Google LLC has recently filed several patents related to various technologies and innovations. These patents cover a range of areas including wireless communication, device control, selective content presentation, image coding, call hold durations, authentication, network path generation, and network administration.

In the field of wireless communication, Google has filed a patent for a method that allows a User Equipment (UE) device to communicate with a Radio Access Network (RAN) in a conditional manner. The UE receives a conditional configuration and condition from the RAN, sends information about its preferences or circumstances, and determines if the condition is satisfied before sending the same information again to the RAN.

Another patent application focuses on wirelessly connecting accessories to a host device. The host device can classify accessories as primary, saved, or unsaved devices, and automatically connect primary and saved devices using a short-range wireless interface. This enables the host device to be connected to multiple accessories simultaneously and send different content to different accessories.

Google has also filed a patent application for a communication channel that allows users to receive more information about entities. Ambassadors for an entity are chosen based on the location history of authorized devices, and they can share information about the entity with the public through the communication channel. The entity owner can analyze the communications between users and ambassadors for further insights.

In the field of device control, Google has filed a patent application for controlling a second electronic device using a first electronic device through indirect control methods and optical character recognition. This method involves using different features to control the operation of the second device and includes wireless communication and optical character recognition techniques.

Other notable patent applications include methods for selectively presenting broadcast content based on user interests, image coding using alpha channel prediction, determining and displaying estimated hold durations for calls, and authentication processes that package user credentials with device identification for secure transmission to an authentication server.

Summary of notable applications:

• Wireless communication method for conditional communication between UE and RAN.
• Method for wirelessly connecting accessories to a host device.
• Communication channel for sharing information about entities through ambassadors.
• Device control method using indirect control methods and optical character recognition.
• Selective presentation of broadcast content based on user interests.
• Image coding using alpha channel prediction.
• Determining and displaying estimated hold durations for calls.
• Authentication process that packages user credentials with device identification.
• Method for generating alternative network paths using a linear system of weights.
• Network administration using tunneled routing in a fabric network.

Patent applications for GOOGLE LLC on November 30th, 2023

SYSTEM(S) AND METHOD(S) OF USING IMITATION LEARNING IN TRAINING AND REFINING ROBOTIC CONTROL POLICIES (18233251)

Main Inventor

Seyed Mohammad Khansari Zadeh

Slidable Fiber Optic Adaptor in Optic Fiber Panel Assembly (17876721)

Main Inventor

Charles Poe

Security Camera with Angled Cable Attachment for Increased Downward-Viewing Angle (18027339)

Main Inventor

Chi-Ming Ngoc-Tran Lin

MOTION STILLS EXPERIENCE (18233823)

Main Inventor

Matthias Grundmann

AUTOMATED ASSISTANT PERFORMANCE OF A NON-ASSISTANT APPLICATION OPERATION(S) IN RESPONSE TO A USER INPUT THAT CAN BE LIMITED TO A PARAMETER(S) (18366172)

Main Inventor

Joseph Lange

ANALYTICS PERSONALIZATION FRAMEWORK (18305025)

Main Inventor

Sundardas Samuel Dorai-Raj

Internal Storage In Cloud Disk To Support Encrypted Hard Drive And Other Stateful Features (18200380)

Main Inventor

Joseph Richey

DISTRIBUTED MANAGEMENT OF FILE MODIFICATION-TIME FIELD (18366312)

Main Inventor

Ezra N. Hoch

System And Method For Large-Scale Data Processing Using An Application-Independent Framework (18137695)

Main Inventor

Jeffrey Dean

Content Item Profiles (18364908)

Main Inventor

Stephen Tsun

Map Uncertainty and Observation Modeling (18450126)

Main Inventor

Richard William Bukowski

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROCESSING A NATURAL LANGUAGE QUERY IN DATA TABLES (18227450)

Main Inventor

Nikunj Agrawal

Providing Relevance-Ordered Categories of Information (18329135)

Main Inventor

Yael Shacham Shazeer

USING CROSS-MATCHING BETWEEN USERS AND MATCHING AGAINST REFERENCE DATA TO FACILITATE CONTENT IDENTIFICATION (18233616)

Main Inventor

Zbigniew Skolicki

IN-CONVERSATION SEARCH (18448684)

Main Inventor

Maryam Garrett

AUTOMATIC ROUTING USING SEARCH RESULTS (18447294)

Main Inventor

Michael J. Lebeau

BROWSER-BASED NAVIGATION SUGGESTIONS FOR TASK COMPLETION (18449397)

Main Inventor

Samuel Birch

Spoof Detection Using Localized Illumination for Biometric Authentication Systems (18319200)

Main Inventor

Firas Sammoura

TOKENIZED HARDWARE SECURITY MODULES (18358799)

Main Inventor

Patrick Stahlberg

MAPPING A TANGIBLE INSTANCE OF A DOCUMENT (18248983)

Main Inventor

Brett Barros

SELECTIVE TEXT PREDICTION FOR ELECTRONIC MESSAGING (18447186)

Main Inventor

Paul Roland Lambert

Detecting Information Operations Campaigns in Social Media with Machine Learning (18447085)

Main Inventor

Philip Tully

Machine-Learned Discretization Level Reduction (18249389)

Main Inventor

Shumeet Baluja

AUTOMATIC ACTIONS BASED ON CONTEXTUAL REPLIES (18304294)

Main Inventor

Morten Just Petersen

ENHANCED CLASSICAL SHADOWS USING MATCHGATE QUANTUM CIRCUITS (18202828)

Main Inventor

Kianna Wan

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a method for enhancing classical shadows using matchgate quantum circuits.

• The method involves computing a classical shadow of an n-qubit quantum state.
• A classical computer repeatedly samples a unitary operator from a group of random unitaries.
• The ensemble of random unitaries includes a generalized matchgate group.
• For each sampled unitary operator, a quantum computer applies a quantum circuit to the quantum state.
• The quantum circuit implements the sampled unitary operator.
• The quantum computer then measures the evolved quantum state to obtain a bit string.
• The classical computer stores a record of the bit string and the sampled unitary operator.
• The records are provided as a classical shadow of the quantum state.

Abstract

Methods, systems, and apparatus for enhancing classical shadows using matchgate quantum circuits. In one aspect, a method for computing a classical shadow of an n-qubit quantum state includes repeatedly sampling, by a classical computer, a unitary operator from an ensemble of random unitaries, wherein the ensemble of random unitaries comprises a generalized matchgate group; for each sampled unitary operator: applying, by a quantum computer, a quantum circuit to the n-qubit quantum state to obtain an evolved quantum state, wherein the quantum circuit implements the sampled unitary operator, measuring, by the quantum computer, the evolved quantum state to obtain a respective bit string, and storing, by the classical computer, a record of the respective bit string and the sampled unitary operator; and providing the records as a classical shadow of the quantum state.

Experience Based NFT Marketplace for Digital Assets (18077624)

Main Inventor

Krishna Chytanya Ayyagari

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a system and method for adding purchase links to non-fungible tokens (NFTs) using software packets.

• The system obtains digital asset data related to an NFT.
• The digital asset data is processed to create a software packet containing a purchase link and callout data.
• The purchase link is designed to record a transaction on a blockchain through an application programming interface (API).
• The callout data is recognizable by search engines, allowing the purchase link to appear in search results associated with the NFT.

Abstract

Systems and methods for providing embedded purchase links for non-fungible tokens can leverage the generation of software packets. The systems and methods can obtain digital asset data associated with a non-fungible token. The digital asset data can be processed to generate a software packet with a purchase link and callout data. The purchase link can be selected to instruct an application programming interface to record a transaction on a blockchain. The callout data can be recognizable by a search engine for surfacing the purchase link in generated search results associated with the non-fungible token.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AD KEYWORD SCORING (18233069)

Main Inventor

Gaofeng Zhao

Brief explanation

The patent application describes methods, systems, and apparatuses for providing network activity performance data in a content infrastructure.

• The invention involves computer programs that can be executed by processors to perform various tasks.
• The system identifies a content item provided by a content provider device.
• It calculates keyword scores to measure the relationship between a keyword and other previously selected content.
• The system determines the effect of a particular keyword on the online content selection process based on the keyword scores.
• It generates a report indicating the effect of the particular keyword on the online content selection process.
• The report is provided to a client device via a network.

Abstract

Methods, systems, and apparatuses, including computer programs encoded on computer-readable media, for providing network activity performance data in a content infrastructure. Instructions stored in the system or apparatus, when executed by processors, cause the processors to: identify a content item provided by a content provider device; calculate a set of keyword scores for the set of keywords, each keyword score calculated to measure a relationship between a semantic word cluster of the keyword and a semantic word cluster of an other content for which the content item was previously selected; determine an effect that a particular keyword of the set of keywords has on the online content selection process based on the set of keyword scores; generate a report indicating the effect that the particular keyword has on the online content selection process; and provide, via a network, the report to a client device.

Image Enhancement via Iterative Refinement based on Machine Learning Models (18227120)

Main Inventor

Chitwan Saharia

Brief explanation

- The patent application describes a method for training a neural network to enhance images.

- The method involves using a set of image pairs, where each pair consists of an image and a corresponding target version of the image. - The neural network is trained to predict an enhanced version of an input image based on the training data. - To train the neural network, a forward Gaussian diffusion process is applied to the target versions of the image pairs. - The forward Gaussian diffusion process adds Gaussian noise to the target versions, enabling iterative denoising of the input image. - The iterative denoising is based on a reverse Markov chain associated with the forward Gaussian diffusion process. - The trained neural network is then outputted as the result of the method.

Abstract

A method includes receiving, by a computing device, training data comprising a plurality of pairs of images, wherein each pair comprises an image and at least one corresponding target version of the image. The method also includes training a neural network based on the training data to predict an enhanced version of an input image, wherein the training of the neural network comprises applying a forward Gaussian diffusion process that adds Gaussian noise to the at least one corresponding target version of each of the plurality of pairs of images to enable iterative denoising of the input image, wherein the iterative denoising is based on a reverse Markov chain associated with the forward Gaussian diffusion process. The method additionally includes outputting the trained neural network.

COST-DRIVEN FRAMEWORK FOR PROGRESSIVE COMPRESSION OF TEXTURED MESHES (18160847)

Main Inventor

Michael Hemmer

Brief explanation

The patent application discusses techniques for compressing level of detail (LOD) data.

• LOD data compression involves sharing a texture image LOD among different mesh LODs for single-rate encoding.
• This means that a first texture image LOD can be created by refining a second texture image LOD.
• Sharing is possible when texture atlases of LOD meshes are compatible.

Abstract

Techniques of compressing level of detail (LOD) data involve sharing a texture image LOD among different mesh LODs for single-rate encoding. That is, a first texture image LOD corresponding to a first mesh LOD may be derived by refining a second texture image LOD corresponding to a second mesh LOD. This sharing is possible when texture atlases of LOD meshes are compatible.

CREATION AND USAGE OF MULTIDIMENSIONAL REALITY CAPTURE (18245967)

Main Inventor

Nitin Suresh

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a computer-implemented method for capturing sensor data from a physical environment and generating a multidimensional dataset representing the environment. This dataset includes sensor data, geometric data, and semantic data.

• The method involves using sensors in a computing device to capture data from the physical environment.
• The captured data is processed by a processor to generate a multidimensional dataset.
• The dataset includes sensor data, geometric data (related to the shape and layout of the environment), and semantic data (related to the meaning and context of the environment).
• The processor identifies and indexes the dimensions of the dataset, allowing for searching, querying, and modification of the data.
• The multidimensional dataset can be used to visualize the physical environment on a display device.

Abstract

A computer-implemented method can include capturing, by one or more of a plurality of sensors of a computing device, respective sensor data corresponding to a physical environment. The method can further include generating by a processor of the computing device from the respective sensor data, a multidimensional dataset representative of the physical environment. The multidimensional dataset can include the respective sensor data, geometric data corresponding with the physical environment, semantic data corresponding with the physical environment. The method can also include identifying and indexing, by the processor of the computing device, a plurality of dimensions of the multidimensional dataset, such that the plurality of dimensions of the multidimensional dataset can be, at least one of, searched, queried, and/or modified to provide, based on the search, query and/or modification, a visualization of the physical environment on a display device.

USING STRUCTURED AUDIO OUTPUT TO DETECT PLAYBACK AND/OR TO ADAPT TO MISALIGNED PLAYBACK IN WIRELESS SPEAKERS (18233369)

Main Inventor

Nathaniel Nesiba

Brief explanation

This patent application describes a method for determining audio delay in a computing device.

• The audio delay is determined by transmitting an audio data stream wirelessly to the computing device and comparing the rendered audio output with the original audio data stream.
• A delay audio segment can be added to an additional audio data stream based on the determined audio delay.
• A noise reduction technique can be adjusted based on the audio delay.
• The patent application also discusses a method for determining if an audio data stream is actually being rendered by the computing device.

Abstract

Implementations are directed to determining an audio delay, of a computing device, by causing an audio data stream to be transmitted to the computing device via a wireless communication channel. The computing device causes audio output generated using the audio data stream to be rendered via speaker(s). The rendered audio output is captured via microphone(s), and the audio delay determined by comparing the captured audio output with the audio data stream. A delay audio segment can be appended to an additional audio data stream transmitted to the computing device, where the length of the delay audio segment is determined using the audio delay. A noise reduction technique can additionally or alternatively be adapted based on the audio delay. Implementations are additionally or alternatively directed to determining if an audio data stream transmitted to a computing device for rendering through speaker(s) driven by the computing device—is actually being rendered.

ADAPTING HOTWORD RECOGNITION BASED ON PERSONALIZED NEGATIVES (18446420)

Main Inventor

Aleksandar Kracun

Brief explanation

This patent application describes a method for improving hotword recognition in streaming audio captured by a user device.

• The method involves receiving audio data that represents a hotword event detected by a first stage hotword detector.
• A second stage hotword detector then processes the audio data to determine if a hotword is detected in a specific segment of the audio.
• If the hotword is not detected by the second stage hotword detector, the first segment of the audio data is classified as containing a negative hotword that caused a false detection by the first stage hotword detector.
• The method then updates the first stage hotword detector based on the classified negative hotword segment, in order to prevent triggering the hotword event in subsequent audio data that contains the negative hotword.

Overall, this patent application presents a method for improving the accuracy of hotword detection by analyzing and classifying segments of audio data, and using this information to update the hotword detection system.

Abstract

A method for adapting hotword recognition includes receiving audio data characterizing a hotword event detected by a first stage hotword detector in streaming audio captured by a user device. The method also includes processing, using a second stage hotword detector, the audio data to determine whether a hotword is detected by the second stage hotword detector in a first segment of the audio data. When the hotword is not detected by the second stage hotword detector, the method includes, classifying the first segment of the audio data as containing a negative hotword that caused a false detection of the hotword event in the streaming audio by the first stage hotword detector. Based on the first segment of the audio data classified as containing the negative hotword, the method includes updating the first stage hotword detector to prevent triggering the hotword event in subsequent audio data that contains the negative hotword.

Audio-Visual Separation of On-Screen Sounds based on Machine Learning Models (18226545)

Main Inventor

Efthymios Tzinis

Brief explanation

This patent application describes an apparatus and methods for separating audio sources in videos using a neural network.

• The method involves receiving an audio waveform associated with multiple video frames.
• A neural network is used to estimate the audio sources associated with the video frames.
• The neural network also generates audio embeddings that correspond to the estimated audio sources.
• By comparing the audio embeddings and a video embedding, the method determines if the estimated audio sources correspond to objects in the video frames.
• Based on this analysis, the neural network predicts a modified version of the audio waveform that includes audio sources corresponding to objects in the video frames.

Abstract

Apparatus and methods related to separation of audio sources are provided. The method includes receiving an audio waveform associated with a plurality of video frames. The method includes estimating, by a neural network, one or more audio sources associated with the plurality of video frames. The method includes generating, by the neural network, one or more audio embeddings corresponding to the one or more estimated audio sources. The method includes determining, based on the audio embeddings and a video embedding, whether one or more audio sources of the one or more estimated audio sources correspond to objects in the plurality of video frames. The method includes predicting, by the neural network and based on the one or more audio embeddings and the video embedding, a version of the audio waveform comprising audio sources that correspond to objects in the plurality of video frames.

SELF-SUPERVISED SPEECH REPRESENTATIONS FOR FAKE AUDIO DETECTION (18446623)

Main Inventor

Joel Shor

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a method for detecting synthetic speech in audio data obtained by a user device. Here are the key points:

• The method involves receiving audio data that represents speech from a user device.
• A trained self-supervised model is used to generate multiple audio feature vectors, each representing the audio features of a portion of the audio data.
• A shallow discriminator model is then used to generate a score indicating the presence of synthetic speech in the audio data based on the audio features of each feature vector.
• The score is compared to a synthetic speech detection threshold to determine if the speech in the audio data is synthetic or not.
• If the score satisfies the threshold, it is determined that the speech in the audio data is synthetic.

Abstract

A method for determining synthetic speech includes receiving audio data characterizing speech in audio data obtained by a user device. The method also includes generating, using a trained self-supervised model, a plurality of audio features vectors each representative of audio features of a portion of the audio data. The method also includes generating, using a shallow discriminator model, a score indicating a presence of synthetic speech in the audio data based on the corresponding audio features of each audio feature vector of the plurality of audio feature vectors. The method also includes determining whether the score satisfies a synthetic speech detection threshold. When the score satisfies the synthetic speech detection threshold, the method includes determining that the speech in the audio data obtained by the user device comprises synthetic speech.

GENERATING STRUCTURED TEXT CONTENT USING SPEECH RECOGNITION MODELS (18234350)

Main Inventor

Christopher S. Co

Brief explanation

The patent application is about methods, systems, and apparatus for speech recognition.

• The method involves obtaining an input acoustic sequence that represents one or more utterances.
• The input acoustic sequence is processed using a speech recognition model to generate a transcription of the input sequence.
• The speech recognition model includes a domain-specific language model.
• The generated transcription is then used as input to a domain-specific predictive model.
• The domain-specific predictive model generates structured text content derived from the transcription of the input sequence.

Abstract

Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on computer storage media for speech recognition. One method includes obtaining an input acoustic sequence, the input acoustic sequence representing one or more utterances; processing the input acoustic sequence using a speech recognition model to generate a transcription of the input acoustic sequence, wherein the speech recognition model comprises a domain-specific language model; and providing the generated transcription of the input acoustic sequence as input to a domain-specific predictive model to generate structured text content that is derived from the transcription of the input acoustic sequence.

MONOLITHIC INTEGRATION OF DIFFERENT LIGHT EMITTING STRUCTURES ON A SAME SUBSTRATE (18305778)

Main Inventor

Gang He

Brief explanation

- The patent application describes a method of integrating different light emitting structures on the same substrate.

- The device for light generation includes a substrate with buffer layers made of GaN material. - Light emitting structures are grown on the top buffer layer, with each structure generating a different color of light. - A p-doped layer made of GaN material is placed over the active area of each light emitting structure. - The device can be used in a light field display and connected to a backplane.

Abstract

The disclosure describes various aspects of monolithic integration of different light emitting structures on a same substrate. In an aspect, a device for light generation is described having a substrate with one or more buffer layers made a material that includes GaN. The device also includes light emitting structures, which are epitaxially grown on a same surface of a top buffer layer of the substrate, where each light emitting structure has an active area parallel to the surface and laterally terminated, and where the active area of different light emitting structures is configured to directly generate a different color of light. The device also includes a p-doped layer disposed over the active area of each light emitting structure and made of a p-doped material that includes GaN. The device may be part of a light field display and may be connected to a backplane of the light field display.

Antenna Tuning For Wireless Links (17908130)

Main Inventor

Vivek Tulshiram Bharambe

Brief explanation

The patent application is for a dynamic antenna tuning system that improves wireless connections between a host device (e.g., a smartwatch) and other devices (e.g., wireless earbuds or a smartphone).

• The system uses an impedance tuner and an aperture tuner to adjust the antenna based on its impedance and radiation pattern.
• The antenna tuning system can prioritize certain wireless links over others for devices connected to the host device.
• Real-time adjustments are made to the tuning parameters in response to changes in connection strength caused by user movement.
• The system is designed to enhance wireless links and improve overall performance between the host device and other devices.

Abstract

The disclosure is directed to a dynamic antenna tuning system for improving wireless links between a host device implementing the system, and one or more other devices. For example, the host device can be a smartwatch or other wearable device, and the other devices can be a pair of wireless earbuds or a smartphone. The antenna tuning system can use both an impedance tuner and an aperture tuner to dynamically tune an antenna based on both the impedance of an antenna at its feed and its radiation pattern. The system can tune the antenna and prioritize multiple wireless links for some devices connected to the host device, over others. The system adjusts tuning parameters in real-time and in response to changes in the connection strength of wireless links between the host device and one or more other devices, for example caused by movement of a user.

Centralized Management of Distributed Data Sources (18231832)

Main Inventor

Rajeev Koodli

Brief explanation

The patent application is about a central management plane (CMP) that regulates data streams from network nodes in a distributed network.

• The CMP can train and deploy machine learning models across the network nodes.
• The CMP generates policies for each network node, specifying how data should be transmitted for further training or retraining of the models.
• The policies are generated based on metric data characterizing each network node and its input data streams.
• The policies are generated with objectives including model output quality and operational cost of transmitting and processing data across the network.

Abstract

Aspects of the disclosure are directed to a central management plane (CMP) of one or more processors for regulating streams of data from each of a number of network nodes of a distributed network. The one or more processors can train and deploy machine learning models across the network nodes, and the CMP can generate policies for each network node. The generated policies specify how a network node is to transmit data to the platform for further training or retraining of the deployed machine learning models. The CMP generates the policies using metric data characterizing each network node and respective streams of input data, and are generated based on a number of objectives, including model output quality of the deployed models, and operational cost to transmit and process streams of data across the distributed network.

Administering Network-Connected Devices Using Tunneled Routing (18027333)

Main Inventor

Grant Michael Erickson

Brief explanation

The patent application describes techniques and devices for administering network-connected devices using tunneled routing in a fabric network.

• The invention allows for accessing administrative services using an access router in a network segment of the fabric network.
• The first access router in a network segment receives an advertisement for a second network segment and establishes a secure tunnel with a second access router in the second network segment.
• The first access router advertises a network route to an Ecosystem Administrative Service (EAS) in the second network segment.
• The advertised network route is used to route messages between devices in the first network segment and the EAS.

Abstract

Techniques and devices for administering network-connected devices using tunneled routing are described for accessing administrative services using an access router in a network segment of a fabric network in which a first access router in a first network segment of a fabric network receives a first advertisement for a second network segment of the fabric network and establishes a first secure tunnel with a second access router in the second network segment in the fabric network. The first access router advertises, in the first network segment, a first network route to an Ecosystem Administrative Service, EAS, in the second network segment, and uses the advertised first network route to route messages between one or more devices in the first network segment and the EAS.

Robust Network Path Generation (17886764)

Main Inventor

Ali Kemal Sinop

Brief explanation

The abstract of this patent application describes a computer-implemented method for generating alternative network paths. Here is a simplified explanation:

• The method involves obtaining a network graph, which represents the connections between different nodes in a network.
• It then determines flows for the edges of the network graph by resolving a linear system of weights associated with the edges. This means finding the optimal distribution of traffic or data across the network.
• The linear system is resolved over a reduced network graph, which simplifies the calculations.
• The solution of the linear system is propagated into different partitions of the network graph to determine the flows within each partition. This helps in understanding the flow of data within different sections of the network.
• Finally, the method determines a plurality of alternative paths across the network graph. This means identifying multiple routes that can be taken to reach a destination, providing redundancy and flexibility in the network.

In summary, this patent application describes a method for efficiently generating alternative network paths by resolving a linear system of weights and partitioning the network graph.

Abstract

Example aspects of the present disclosure provide for an example computer-implemented method for generating alternative network paths, the example method including obtaining a network graph; determining flows respectively for edges of the network graph by: resolving a linear system of weights associated with the edges, the linear system resolved over a reduced network graph, and propagating a solution of the linear system into a respective partition of a plurality of partitions of the network graph to determine at least one of the flows within the respective partition; and determining a plurality of alternative paths across the network graph.

Two-Factor Authentication Systems And Methods (18232543)

Main Inventor

Yi Cui

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a method for authentication in which user credentials are received from an application and packaged with a device identification by an authentication process. The device identification is hidden from the application. The packaged user credentials and device identification are then transmitted to an authentication server for verification. Once the user credentials are authenticated, the indication of authentication is forwarded from the authentication process to the application.

• Method for authentication in computing devices
• User credentials received from an application
• Authentication process is isolated from the application
• User credentials packaged with device identification
• Device identification hidden from the application
• Packaged user credentials and device identification transmitted to authentication server
• Indication of authentication received from authentication server
• Indication of authentication forwarded to the application

Abstract

A method including: receiving, from an application executing on a computing device and by an authentication process executing on the computing device, data representative of user credentials corresponding to the application, the authentication process being isolated from the application; packaging, by the authentication process, the data representative of user credentials with a device identification assigned to the computing device and an indication that the user credentials correspond to the application, the device identification being hidden from the application; outputting for transmission, by the authentication process and to an authentication server, an authentication request containing the packaged user credentials and device identification; receiving, by the authentication process and from the authentication server, an indication of authentication of the user credentials; and forwarding the received indication from the authentication process to the application.

DETERMINATION AND DISPLAY OF ESTIMATED HOLD DURATIONS FOR CALLS (18447162)

Main Inventor

Joseph Joseph Cherukara

Brief explanation

This patent application is about a method for determining and displaying estimated hold durations for calls. Here are the key points:

• The method involves obtaining an identifier of a target entity, which can be used to initiate a call between a first call device and the target entity.
• The hold duration is an estimated amount of time before the call is connected to a human agent when the call is initiated at a specific time.
• The hold duration is determined based on previous calls made between one or more call devices and the target entity.
• The determined hold duration is provided to the first call device for display before the call is initiated.
• The purpose of this innovation is to provide callers with an estimate of how long they may have to wait before being connected to a human agent, based on historical data.

Abstract

Implementations relate to determination and display of estimated hold durations for calls. In some implementations, a computer-implemented method includes obtaining an identifier of a target entity, the identifier usable by a first call device to initiate a call between the first call device and the target entity. A hold duration is determined that is an estimated amount of time before the call is matched to a human agent when the call is initiated at a particular time that is prospective to a current time. The hold duration is determined based on previous calls between one or more call devices and the target entity. The hold duration is provided for display by the first call device prior to the initiation of the call between the first call device and the target entity.

ALPHA CHANNEL PREDICTION (18448561)

Main Inventor

Maryla Ustarroz-Calonge

Brief explanation

The patent application is about image coding using alpha channel prediction.

• The invention involves generating a reconstructed image using alpha channel prediction.
• The reconstructed image is outputted as the result of the process.
• The process includes decoding reconstructed color channel values for a current pixel expressed in a first color space.
• Color space converted color channel values for the current pixel are obtained by converting the reconstructed color channel values to a second color space.
• An alpha channel lower bound is obtained for the alpha channel value of the current pixel using the color space converted color channel values.
• A candidate predicted alpha value is generated for the current pixel.
• An adjusted predicted alpha value is obtained for the current pixel using the candidate predicted alpha value and the alpha channel lower bound.
• A reconstructed pixel is generated for the current pixel using the adjusted predicted alpha value.
• The reconstructed pixel is included in the reconstructed image.

Abstract

Image coding using alpha channel prediction may include generating a reconstructed image using alpha channel prediction and outputting the reconstructed image. Generating the reconstructed image using alpha channel prediction may include decoding reconstructed color channel values for a current pixel expressed with reference to first color space, obtaining color space converted color channel values for the current pixel by converting the reconstructed color channel values to a second color space, obtaining an alpha channel lower bound for an alpha channel value for the current pixel using the color space converted color channel values, generating a candidate predicted alpha value for the current pixel, obtaining an adjusted predicted alpha value for the current pixel using the candidate predicted alpha value and the alpha channel lower bound, generating a reconstructed pixel for the current pixel using the adjusted predicted alpha value, and including the reconstructed pixel in the reconstructed image.

METHODS, SYSTEMS AND MEDIA FOR SELECTIVELY PRESENTING BROADCAST CONTENT BASED ON USER INTERESTS (18233490)

Main Inventor

Andrew Mark Diamondstein

Brief explanation

- This patent application describes methods, systems, and media for selectively presenting broadcast content based on user interests.

- The method involves receiving user information and associating athletes from a sports organization with the user based on that information. - The user device is able to identify broadcast programs that it can present. - The method then determines which broadcast programs depict games between teams in the sports organization that are relevant to the associated athlete. - Event metadata for the relevant broadcast programs is received, which provides information about events that occur in the game. - The method determines if a portion of the first broadcast program is relevant to a specific entity based on the event metadata. - If it is determined to be relevant, the user device is caused to present that portion of the first broadcast program.

Abstract

Methods, systems, and media for selectively presenting broadcast content based on user interests are provided. In some implementations a method for selectively presenting broadcast content is provided, the method comprising: receiving user information; associating one or more athletes, each on a roster of a team in a sports organization, with the user based on the user information; identifying broadcast programs that a user device can present; determining broadcast programs that depict a game between teams in the sports organization that are relevant to an athlete associated with the user based on program metadata; receiving event metadata for the relevant broadcast programs that is indicative of events in the game depicted therein; determining that a portion of the first broadcast program is relevant to a first entity based on the event metadata; and causing the user device to present the portion of the first broadcast.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR OPERATING A SET TOP BOX (18233608)

Main Inventor

Vincent Dureau

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a method for controlling a second electronic device using a first electronic device through indirect control methods and optical character recognition.

• The method involves using features of different implementations to control the operation of a second electronic device from a first electronic device.
• Communication between a primary set-top box and a supplemental set-top box is configured to avoid the need for provider-specific APIs.
• The method includes identifying commands that can control features of a primary set-top box by a supplemental set-top box.
• Commands are issued to the primary set-top box via a wireless transmitter, such as infrared.
• Optical character recognition is used to identify the outcomes of those commands as displayed on a primary TV display or secondary display.

Abstract

Features of various implementations are used to control operation of a second electronic device from a first electronic device using indirect control methods and optical character recognition. In some implementations, communication between a primary set-top box and a supplemental set-top box is configured in order to avoid the need for one or more provider-specific APIs. For example, one aspect of the disclosure is a method of identifying commands that can be used to control one or more features of a primary set-top box (e.g., DVR or VOD features) by a supplemental set-top box issuing commands to the primary set-top box via a wireless (e.g., IR) transmitter, and then using optical character recognition to identify the outcomes of those commands as displayed on a primary TV display or secondary display.

Creating A Communication Channel Between User Devices And Local Stores (18232644)

Main Inventor

Matteo Agosti

Brief explanation

- The patent application describes a communication channel that allows users to receive more information about entities.

- Ambassadors for an entity are chosen based on the location history of authorized devices. - These ambassadors can share information about the entity with the public through the communication channel. - The entity owner can analyze the communications between users and ambassadors for further insights.

Abstract

A user-to-entity communication channel is established for providing increased information regarding entities to the general population. Ambassadors for a entity are identified and selected based on location history of devices for which location reporting is authorized. The ambassadors may provide information regarding the entity to the public through the communication channel. Communications between the users and ambassadors may be reported to the entity owner for analysis by the entity owner.

Bluetooth Multipoint Algorithm and Private Notifications (18447811)

Main Inventor

Basheer Tome

Brief explanation

The present disclosure is about systems and methods for wirelessly connecting accessories to a host device.

• The host device can classify the accessories as primary, saved, or unsaved devices.
• Primary and saved devices can automatically connect to the host device using a short-range wireless interface.
• This allows the host device to be connected to multiple accessories simultaneously.
• The host device can send first content to a saved accessory and receive second content to send to another accessory while still sending the first content to the saved accessory.

Abstract

The present disclosure provides systems and methods for wirelessly coupling one or more accessories with a host device. The one or more accessories may be classified by the host device as primary, saved, or unsaved devices. Primary and saved devices may automatically couple to the host device via a short range wireless communications interface. Thus, the host device may simultaneously be coupled to one or more accessories. The host device may output first content to a first accessory, such as a saved accessory. The host device may receive second content and output the second content to a second accessory while simultaneously outputting the first content to the first accessory.

MANAGING UE INFORMATION AFTER PREPARING A CONDITIONAL MOBILITY PROCEDURE (18032388)

Main Inventor

Chih-Hsiang Wu

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a method for a User Equipment (UE) device to communicate with a Radio Access Network (RAN) in a conditional manner. Here is a simplified explanation of the abstract:

• The UE receives a conditional configuration and a corresponding condition from the RAN.
• After receiving the conditional configuration and condition, the UE sends information about its preferences or circumstances to the RAN.
• The UE then determines if the corresponding condition is satisfied.
• If the condition is satisfied, the UE sends the same information again to the RAN.

Bullet points explaining the patent/innovation:

• The method allows the UE to receive and respond to conditional configurations and conditions from the RAN.
• By sending information about its preferences or circumstances, the UE can provide the RAN with relevant data.
• The UE can determine if the condition set by the RAN is satisfied, indicating whether the provided information is applicable.
• If the condition is satisfied, the UE sends the same information again to the RAN, ensuring the RAN has the most up-to-date data.

Abstract

A method in a UE communicating with a RAN includes receiving (A), from the RAN, a conditional configuration and a corresponding condition for a conditional procedure and, after receiving the conditional configuration and the corresponding condition, sending ( A) UE information to the RAN. The UE information includes information indicative of a preference or circumstance of the UE. The method also includes, after sending the UE information to the RAN, determining (A) that the corresponding condition is satisfied and, after determining that the corresponding condition is satisfied, again sending (A) the UE information to the RAN.