Google’s New Patent is The Advance ‘Connected Flight Mode’

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Google is set to revolutionize the way we use our smartphones while flying. A recent patent application filed with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) reveals that the tech behemoth is working on an advanced version of the traditional Airplane Mode, termed as the ‘Connected Flight Mode’.

The conventional Airplane Mode disables all connectivity, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Users must manually reactivate these features after enabling Airplane Mode. Google’s innovative mode aims to automate this process and introduce significant enhancements.

The upgraded mode employs sensors on your device to ascertain when you’re on an airplane. It monitors changes in speed and acceleration, checks for a drop in pressure, listens for specific sounds like engine noise, and even takes into account contextual factors such as travel booking activity and check-in status. Once the device determines you’re flying, the Connected Flight Mode activates automatically.

The real innovation lies in how this mode manages Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Instead of turning these off, the Connected Flight Mode keeps them on. This means your device remains connected to the airplane’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth networks automatically, without any additional steps from you.

However, Google’s aspirations extend beyond merely maintaining connectivity. The patent unveils plans to treat inflight Wi-Fi networks the same as ground Wi-Fi networks. This implies you could perform high-bandwidth tasks, such as backing up photos, in-flight, irrespective of the plane’s internet capacity. The Connected Flight Mode will intelligently manage the limited inflight internet resources to allow for these operations.

In essence, Google’s Connected Flight Mode introduces a new level of automation and capability to in-flight mobile use. It offers a more seamless and user-friendly experience while also smartly managing limited inflight internet resources. This development promises a future where staying connected in the air is as effortless and efficient as on the ground. Google’s innovative step could indeed be a game-changer in enhancing the in-flight digital experience.