Apparatus and method for obtaining inconspicuous user input on a mobile device

摘要

Mobile device, method for operating the same, and associated computer-readable instructions on a non-transitory medium for obtaining inconspicuous user input on a mobile device. The mobile device automatically detects whether an accessory port is engaged with an accessory, such as a headset, for example. In response to at least one change in an indication of the detection, the device automatically performs a sequence of operations. According to one particular embodiment, alarm sequence of operations can include a transmission of an alarm notification to a predefined recipient, for example.

主权项

1. An electronic mobile device configured to accept inconspicuous user input, the device comprising:
a housing; computer circuitry situated within the housing and including a processor operatively coupled to a data store, a user interface including a display and a user input device, and wireless communications circuitry; an accessory port interfaced with the computer circuitry and including an electrical connector configured to engage with an accessory external to the housing; wherein the computer circuitry is configured to implement a port detector module that provides an indication of whether the accessory port is engaged with the accessory; wherein the computer circuitry stores an application that implements a personal protection module, wherein the application, when executed, causes the computer circuitry to execute a sequence of operations in response to at least one change in the indication of the port detector module, the sequence of operations not requiring operation of the accessory, and wherein the sequence of operations includes an alarm sequence that transmits an alarm message to a remote recipient via the communications circuitry; and wherein the personal protection module is configured to enter into an armed state in response to a user input, wherein in the armed state the personal protection module permits activation of the alarm sequence, and wherein out of the armed state the personal protection module prevents activation of the alarm sequence.