As the novel coronavirus continues its aggressive march around the world, it has had a massive impact on all spheres of our lives. Most experts believe that we will look at the time, in two periods, before and after corona. The global pandemic will have massive and long-lasting changes in the way we interact and communicate with people. With social distancing still being active in many zones, people socialise differently now. Another change that will be put in place will be how people meet and greet others. These changes seem to be verified by Apple’s new patent. Let us look at what the new patent is on and how this software will impact the world of technology.
New Software
Apple’s new patent is for a software that will allow users to take synthetic group selfies. This could be the future for group selfies as more people become aware of the need for social distancing. Also, this generated group selfie might become a viable alternative when you post pictures on social media during such times. Discovered by Patently Apple, the new patent application allows users to invite others to be a part of their selfies. The software will then generate a single image that captures all the participants and arrange them into a memorable group photo. The selfie can have in it photos, video images, and even live-streamed images. Also, users get to keep both the original and group selfie, and the recipients can modify it, and even put themselves in different positions within the group.
Not So New A Concept
While the idea of a socially-distant selfie seems bizarre right now, it is definitely a need of the hour. However, while it seems relevant now, due to the pandemic, it was not something born out of coronavirus. Instead, Apple first filed for such a patent long before, way back in 2018. It gained popularity now as the patent was granted only a few days back, on June 2. However, like with all patents, there is no guarantee that Apple will use this software or materialise it into a real product.
Product For the Future
The patent is essentially a way for Apple to envision and explore the possibility of such a product. However, it is in no way a roadmap for a specific product, which we may or may not see. Also, the pandemic makes the likelihood of such a product hitting the market higher. People are looking for innovative ways to reach out and stay connected with their loved ones. Such remote group selfies will serve as a perfect way to get people together safely and healthily. The app would allow people to invite friends, and friends can arrange their position in the selfie. Once all the invited people are in the frame, the software generates a group photo with everyone in place.
It looks like Apple is looking at a new avenue. With people having to spend time away from each other due to different reasons, such software might become a hit with the crowd. While there is no clarity regarding whether Apple will soon roll out such an app, the idea looks very promising indeed. It sure looks like Apple wants to be at the forefront when it comes to changes in the post-pandemic world.
Being a cinephile with a love for all things outdoorsy, Athulya never misses a chance to chase inspiring stories or poke fun at things, even when the subject is herself. Currently pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering, she is someone innately interested in technical and scientific research. Music reviews and op-eds define her as they allow her to explore different perspectives. Though sometimes she thinks she makes more sense playing the guitar than she does while writing.