Nowadays, flights frequently entail individuals bringing their own electronics, such as laptops or cellphones. These gadgets can cause system interference since they contain wireless functions like GPS or Wi-Fi. Airlines frequently request that customers turn off these capabilities by using airplane mode when flying.
Not a Foolproof Procedure
This procedure is not error-proof because it depends on travellers remembering and comprehending how to activate aeroplane mode. Additionally, any onboard devices that have full connectivity turned on will not distinguish between in-flight Wi-Fi and standard ground-based Wi-Fi, causing bandwidth-hungry activities like photo backups to continue unchecked and consume the plane’s meagre internet resources.
In order to address these issues, Google has submitted a patent (created by Maxim Coppin) proposing a better method of managing wireless communications on portable computing devices during flight. As per ParkiFly, this new system is known as Connected Airplane Mode.
By using this method, a device can convert to a connected airplane mode automatically depending on predetermined criteria, removing the requirement for users to manually enter aeroplane mode. This mode intends to allow customers more flexibility over the settings on their device, potentially enhancing their flight experience while still upholding essential safety precautions.
Smooth Transitions
The linked airplane mode activates when the device detects factors that would indicate that it is in flight, such as location, altitude, pressure, speed, and background noise levels. For instance, when the gadget determines that it is inside an aeroplane and recognises the specific noises, pressures, and motions that often precede a takeoff, it switches from the ordinary mode to the connected flight mode. This mode forbids some radio frequency connections, such as cellular networks, but may still allow for the operation of others, such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
In some versions, the Connected Airplane Mode can switch between several sub-modes depending on the stage of the flight or the detection of various circumstances. A highly dynamic and responsive system is provided by each sub-mode, which might offer distinct settings or activities from the others.
But keep in mind that this is just a patent, and neither Google nor any other corporation is obligated to develop this idea into a working product. Its final development will probably depend on a variety of factors, including as consumer interest, legal restrictions, and technological viability. Even still, it’s exciting to consider the potential uses for such a system.
