Apple Motion-Tracking Chip Does More than Just Apps
(PRWEB) September 25, 2013 -- Apple revealed a new processor for its upcoming iPhone 5S at a keynote event Tuesday. The new M7 chip is dedicated to tracking motion using the iPhone's existing sensors, which Apple says will enable new types of health and fitness apps, according to C-Net News (09.10.2013).
The M7 chip will work alongside the iPhone's standard A7 processor, but will take over processing motion data from the phone's accelerometer, compass and gyroscope, Apple officials said. Those gadgets are responsible for sensing user movement for apps that track, for example, jogging gait.
The new processor will allow the 5S to know whether its owner is walking or driving, or simply sitting still. But technologist Jason Hennessey, co-founder of marketing and SEO firm Everspark Interactive, says, the chip won't be limited to fitness apps for long.
“There's nothing revolutionary about the fitness app that Apple debuted with this announcement,” said Hennessey, referring to the Nike+ Move app that uses the new process to monitor activity levels throughout the day. “Dedicating a whole new processor to these sensors underscores the growing importance of motion data in smartphone functionality.”
That means a lot more than just measuring heart rate, Hennessey says.
“Google is already designing a phone that predicts user needs,” Hennessey said. “The iPhone can do the same if the M7 chip lets it be 'aware' of its surroundings.”
“For example, the phone knows if you're driving – so it can switch automatically into navigation mode, and hands-free call mode. If it knows you're walking around, it could have different presets come up.”
Hennessey said that doesn't necessarily mean the next iPhone will be unique.
“It's likely to be the first of its kind,” he said. “But I would expect similar processors to become standard in all smartphones quickly.”
About Everspark:
Everspark Interactive is an all-in-one SEO, marketing and online media firm that specializes in creating gripping, keyword-laden copy that will attract attention from both search engines and live customers. The company can be reached at (770) 481-1766.
Denae Olberding, EverSpark Interactive, http://www.eversparkinteractive.com, 7704811766, [email protected]
Share this article