WASHINGTON—Apple Computer Inc. is attracting attention with two new patent applications that outline plans for a wireless-enabled iPod.
The application, filed 18 months ago but only recently published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, describes a device with a wireless browser “interacting with the online media store via a low-bandwidth network.” The filing also details a “dual-download” system allowing a user to buy content from a handset but then downloading it later to a PC.
Wireless carriers in North America and Europe are hoping to gain traction with dual-download, full-track music offerings, hoping to encourage music lovers to shop for tunes over their phone, and to use their PCs to manage music libraries.
A second Apple patent addresses an interface enabling users to browse for offerings or play songs with voice commands.
The patents lend further evidence to the theory that Apple is planning to step onto the wireless playing field in a big way. The computer giant has long been rumored to be developing a branded “iPod phone,” and some believe an Apple mobile virtual network operator service is in the offing.
Such moves may be necessary if Apple is to retain its substantial lead in the digital music player space. Many analysts say mobile phones are well-positioned to replace the iPod eventually, believing that consumers won’t want to carry two devices.
