- Apple devices may soon be able to read lips using motion detection.
- This feature could improve the accuracy of voice commands.
- The patent application details how mouth movements can be compared against previous data.
- This feature may also allow devices to turn on microphones quickly when needed.
Apple devices may soon be able to read lips using motion detection, according to a recently-revealed patent application. The patent application, called “Keyword Detection Using Motion Sensing,” details how mouth movements can be compared against previous data as Siri or a device attempts to find a match. This feature could improve the accuracy of voice commands and also allow devices to turn on microphones quickly when needed.
The patent application mentions that data is received from a motion sensor, recording the motion of a user as they utter a spoken input. A determination is then made whether a portion of the motion data matches reference data for a set of one or more words. Additionally, the application states that continuously detecting and processing audio data expends power and processing capacity even when the user is not actively using voice control, making motion detection more efficient.
The patent application is credited to two inventors, including Madhu Chinthakunta. Chinthakunta’s previous work for Apple includes a patent for having Siri automatically make arrangements and calls on your behalf. This new patent may help improve Siri’s accuracy and make it easier to use voice commands.
