ELECTRONIC DEVICE COMPRISING WIRELESS COMMUNICATION CIRCUIT FOR BLUETOOTH COMMUNICATION, AND METHOD FOR OPERATING SAME

An electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a wireless communication circuit configured to perform Bluetooth communication, a sensor, a connection terminal for connection with a first external electronic device, a processor operatively connected to the sensor and the wireless communication circuit, and memory operatively connected to the processor. The memory may store instructions which, when executed, enable the processor to: determine by means of the sensor whether a cover of the first external electronic device is open or closed, if it is determined that the cover of the first external electronic device is open, determine whether or not the connection terminal is electrically connected to the first external electronic device, and, if it is determined that the connection terminal is connected to the first external electronic device, switch the wireless communication circuit to an inquiry scan enable mode.

BACKGROUND

The disclosure relates to an electronic device comprising a wireless communication circuit for Bluetooth communication and a method for operating the same.

2. Description of Related Art

The Bluetooth standard technology defined by the Bluetooth special interest group (Bluetooth SIG) defines a protocol for short-range wireless communication between electronic devices. In a Bluetooth network environment, electronic devices may transmit or receive data packets containing content, such as text, voice, images, or video, in a specified frequency band (e.g., about 2.4 gigahertz (GHz)).

For example, user equipment (UE), such as a smailphone, a tablet, a desktop computer, or a laptop computer, may transmit data packets to other user equipment or accessory devices via the Bluetooth network environment. The accessory device may include, for example, at least one of earphones, a headset, a speaker, a mouse, a keyboard, a charger, or a display device.

SUMMARY

When a user connects a Bluetooth electronic device to a first external electronic device and wants to connect the Bluetooth electronic device to another external electronic device while using the Bluetooth electronic device, it may be necessary to enter an inquiry stage.

The Bluetooth electronic device may place a physical button on the Bluetooth electronic device or a case (e.g., a charging case) of the Bluetooth electronic device in order to support the inquiry scan enable/disable switching. When an external operation button of the Bluetooth electronic device is mounted like the existing Bluetooth electronic devices, the physical size of the Bluetooth electronic device may increase. When a physical button is used on the case of the Bluetooth electronic device, the case and the Bluetooth electronic device have to perform additional communication for the user's button operation of the case, which may lead to the regulation of the communication method, current consumption, or additional circuit configuration.

Aspects of the disclosure are to address at least the above-mentioned problems and/or disadvantages and to provide at least the advantages described below. Accordingly, an aspect of the disclosure is to provide a Bluetooth electronic device and a method for operating the same capable of entering a pairing mode through an easy operation method without a physical button or an operation method that is difficult for a user to recognize, or a separate communication with a case.

In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, an electronic device (210) is provided. The electronic device includes a wireless communication circuit configured to perform Bluetooth communication, a sensor, a connection terminal configured to connect with a first external electronic device, a processor operatively connected to the sensor and the wireless communication circuit, and a memory operatively connected to the processor, in which the memory may store instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to determine by means of the sensor whether a cover of the first external electronic device is open, determine whether or not the connection terminal is electrically connected to the first external electronic device if it is determined that the cover of the first external electronic device is open, and, switch the wireless communication circuit to an inquiry scan enable mode if it is determined that the connection terminal is connected to the first external electronic device.

In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a wireless communication circuit configured to perform Bluetooth communication, a sensor, a connection terminal configured to connect with a first external electronic device, a processor operatively connected to the sensor and the wireless communication circuit, and a memory operatively connected to the processor, in which the memory stores instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to determine by means of the sensor whether a cover of the first external electronic device is open, determine whether or not the connection terminal is electrically connected to the first external electronic device if it is determined that the cover of the first external electronic device is open, and transmit, by means of the wireless communication circuit, information about whether the electronic device and the first external electronic device are electrically connected to each other to the second external electronic device connected to the electronic device through a first communication link, if it is determined that the connection terminal is in a state of being connected to the first external electronic device.

In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, a method for operating an electronic device including a wireless communication circuit for Bluetooth communication is provided. The method includes determining by means of a sensor of the electronic device whether a cover of a first external electronic device is open, determining whether a connection terminal of the electronic device is electrically connected to the first external electronic device if it is determined that the cover of the first external electronic device is open, and performing switching to an inquiry scan enable mode if it is determined that the connection terminal is connected to the first external electronic device.

According to various embodiments disclosed in the disclosure, an electronic device enters the inquiry scan enable mode if a specific condition is satisfied, thereby easily entering the inquiry scan enable mode without an increase in the size of the electronic device or separate communication with the case, and thus it is possible to provide an electronic device with increased usability and convenience.

According to various embodiments of the disclosure, the electronic device may selectively respond to an inquiry request from an external electronic device, thereby providing a Bluetooth connection with an external electronic device that matches the intention of a user with higher accuracy.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, a configuration of an electronic device according to an embodiment will be described with reference toFIG.1.

FIG.1is a block diagram of an electronic device100, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.1, the electronic device100(e.g., a first electronic device210or second electronic device220ofFIG.2) may include a communication circuit110, at least one antenna111, a processor120, a memory130, a charging circuit140, a sensor module150, a connection terminal160, a touch pad170, a battery180, an audio module190, a speaker191, or a microphone192. According to various embodiments of the disclosure, in the electronic device100, at least one of the components inFIG.1may be omitted, or one or more other components may be added. In addition, some of the components may be implemented as single integrated circuitry.

The processor120may execute software to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device100coupled with the processor120and perform various data processing or computation. As at least part of the data processing or computation, the processor120may load a command or data received from another component (e.g., the sensor module150or the communication circuit110) in a volatile memory of the memory130, process the command or the data stored in the volatile memory, and store resulting data in a non-volatile memory.

The memory130may store various data to be used, by at least one component (e.g., the processor120or the sensor module150) of the electronic device100. The various data may include, for example, software (e.g., the program) and input data or output data for a command related thereto. The memory130may include a volatile memory or a nonvolatile memory. The program may be stored in the memory130as software, and may include, for example, an operating system (OS), middleware, or an application. The memory130may store, for example, instructions related to various operations performed by the processor120.

The touch pad170is a pointing device utilizing one surface of a housing of the electronic device100and may include a touch sensing circuit171and a touch sensor integrated circuit (IC) (or touch sensor)172. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the touch sensing circuit171may include a conductive pattern located in the housing. A non-conductive cover may be implemented in the housing of the electronic device100and may be positioned to overlap the touch sensing circuit171at least in part. The cover including the conductive pattern located in the housing may be utilized as an input region (or key region) for receiving or sensing a user input. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the touch pad170may be implemented based on a capacitive method. The touch sensor IC172(e.g., a touch controller integrated circuit (IC)) may apply a voltage to the touch sensing circuit171, and the touch sensing circuit171may form an electromagnetic field. For example, if a finger of the user comes into contact with one surface of the cover implemented in the housing of the electronic device100or reaches within a threshold distance from the one surface of the cover, the change in capacitance based on the change in the electromagnetic field may be equal to or greater than a threshold value. When the change in capacitance is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the touch sensor IC172may generate an electrical signal regarding coordinates as a valid user input and transfer it to the processor120. The processor120may recognize the coordinates based on the electrical signal received from the touch sensor IC172. The touch sensing circuit171and the touch sensor IC172may also be collectively referred to as a sensor circuit for sensing a touch. According to various embodiments, the key region included on one surface of the non-conductive cover and the touch sensing circuit171corresponding to the key region may be collectively referred to as a “touch key”. The touch pad170may contribute to the appearance of the electronic device100having a sense of unity with a smooth design by forming a touch sensing circuit so as to conform to the shape of the housing.

The touch sensor IC172may convert an analog signal obtained through the touch sensing circuit171into a digital signal. The touch sensor IC172may perform various functions such as noise filtering, noise removal, or sensing data extraction in relation to the touch sensing circuit171. The touch sensor IC172may include various circuits such as an analog-digital converter (ADC), a digital signal processor (DSP), and/or a micro control unit (MCU).

A user input regarding audio data (or audio content) may be generated through the touch pad170. For example, functions such as playback start, playback pause, playback stop, playback speed control, playback volume control, or muting of audio data may be executed based on a user input through the touch pad170. The electronic device100may receive various gesture inputs through a key region located on one surface of the electronic device100using a finger, various functions related to audio data may be implemented based on the gesture inputs. For example, if a single tap is performed in the key region, the processor120may play back the audio data or pause the playback. For example, if two taps are performed in the key region, the processor120may switch the playback to the next audio data. For example, if three taps are performed in the key region, the processor120may switch the playback to the previous audio data. For example, if swiping is performed in the key region, the processor120may adjust the volume related to the playback of audio data. The gesture input may be utilized not only for functions related to audio data, but also for various other functions. For example, when an incoming call comes in, if two taps are performed in the key region, the processor120may connect the call.

The touch pad170may further include a tactile layer (not shown). The touch pad170including the tactile layer may provide a tactile response to the user.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, there may be a click button (not shown) aligned with the touch pad170, and when the click button is pressed, an input such as clicking a mouse button may be generated. The touch pad170may include a sensor circuit (e.g., a pressure sensor) (not shown) configured to measure the strength of a force generated by a user input.

According to various embodiments of the disclosure, the electronic device100is not limited to the touch pad170, and may further include various other input devices for receiving, from the outside (e.g., the user) of the electronic device100, commands or data to be used in a component (e.g., the processor120) of the electronic device100. The input device may be various, for example, a physical button, or an optical key.

The speaker191may output an audio signal to the outside of the electronic device100. Sound waves such as sound or voice may be introduced into the microphone192through the microphone hole, and the microphone192may generate an electrical signal therefor. The audio module190may convert a sound into an electrical signal and vice versa. The audio module190may acquire a sound through the microphone192or may output a sound through the speaker191.

The audio module190may support an audio data collection function. The audio module190may play back the collected audio data. The audio module190may include an audio decoder, a digital-to-analog converter (D/A converter), or an analog-to-digital converter (A/D converter). The audio decoder may convert audio data stored in the memory130into a digital audio signal. The D/A converter may convert the digital audio signal converted by the audio decoder into an analog audio signal. The speaker191may output the analog audio signal converted by the D/A converter. The A/D converter may convert an analog audio signal acquired through the microphone192into a digital audio signal.

The sensor module150may detect, for example, an operational state (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device100or an environmental state (e.g., a state of the user) external to the electronic device101, and may generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. The sensor module150may include an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, a magnetic sensor, a proximity sensor, a temperature sensor, a gesture sensor, a grip sensor, or a biometric sensor.

For example, the electronic device100may include an optical sensor located at least partially inside the housing or on one surface of the housing. When the optical sensor is located inside the housing, a portion of the housing facing the optical sensor may be formed to allow light to pass through or may include an opening. The optical sensor may include a light emitting unit (e.g., a light emitting diode (LED)) that outputs light of at least one wavelength band, or a light receiving unit (e.g., a photodiode) that receives light of one or more wavelength bands and generates an electrical signal. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the optical sensor may be a sensor for sensing wearing. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the optical sensor may be a biometric sensor. In a state where the electronic device100is worn on the user's ear, light output from the light emitting unit of the optical sensor may be reflected from the user's skin and may be introduced into the light receiving unit of the optical sensor. The light receiving unit of the optical sensor may provide an electrical signal based on the introduced light to the processor120. The processor120may transmit an electrical signal acquired from the optical sensor to an external electronic device (e.g., a smartphone) through the communication circuit110. The external electronic device may acquire various biometric information, such as a heart rate or skin temperature, based on the electrical signal acquired from the electronic device100. The processor120may acquire biometric information based on an electrical signal acquired from the optical sensor, and may transmit the acquired biometric information to an external electronic device through the communication circuit110or output it through the speaker191.

Information or a signal regarding whether the electronic device100is coupled to the user's ear may be acquired through the sensor module150. Information or a signal regarding whether the electronic device100is coupled to an external device (e.g., a charging device of the electronic device100) (e.g., a third electronic device300ofFIG.3) through the sensor module150may be acquired.

According to various embodiments of the disclosure (not shown), the electronic device100may include a member to be sensed (e.g., a first sensor211ofFIG.2) corresponding to a sensor (e.g., a third sensor311and/or a fourth sensor312ofFIG.3) of an external electronic device (e.g., the charging device of the electronic device100). For example, the external electronic device may include a Hall IC disposed in a mounting part, and the electronic device100may include a magnetic force sensor (e.g., the first sensor211ofFIG.2) including a magnet (or magnetic material). When the electronic device100is coupled to the mounting part of the external electronic device, the Hall IC of the external electronic device may sense a magnet (e.g., the first sensor211ofFIG.2) disposed in the electronic device100, and the external electronic device may transfer an electrical signal related to the coupling of the external electronic device and the electronic device100to the processor120through the connection terminal160.

The connection terminal160may include, for example, a connector through which the electronic device100may be electrically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., a smailphone or the charging device). According to an embodiment, the connection terminal160may include, for example, a universal serial bus (USB) connector or a secure digital (SD) card connector.

According to various embodiments, the connection terminal160may include at least one contact (or terminal) (e.g., a first charging terminal212ofFIG.2) disposed on the outer surface of the housing. For example, when the electronic device100is mounted on the mounting part (not shown) of the external electronic device (e.g., a first socket321or a second socket323ofFIG.3), at least one contact (e.g., the first charging terminal212ofFIG.2) of the electronic device100may be electrically connected to at least one contact (e.g., a flexible terminal such as a pogo pin) (e.g., a third charging terminal322or fourth charging terminal324ofFIG.3) disposed on the mounting part of the external electronic device. The connection terminal160may receive power for charging the battery180from an external electronic device and transfer it to the charging circuit140. The electronic device100may perform power line communication (PLC) with an external electronic device (e.g., a charging device of the electronic device100) through the connection terminal160.

The charging circuit140may manage power supplied to the electronic device100, for example. According to an embodiment, the charging circuit140may be implemented as at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

The battery180may supply power to, for example, at least one component of the electronic device100. According to an embodiment, the battery180may include a rechargeable secondary battery.

The communication circuit110may support establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or wireless communication channel between the electronic device100and an external electronic device (e.g., a server, a smailphone, a personal computer (PC), a personal digital assistant (PDA), or an access point), and communication through the established communication channel According to various embodiments, the communication circuit110may include one or more communication processors that are operable independently from the processor120and support a direct (e.g., wired) communication or a wireless communication.

The communication circuit110may transmit or receive a signal or power to or from an external electronic device through at least one antenna (or antenna radiator)191. The communication circuit110may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module or a power line communication (PLC) module). A corresponding communication module among the communication modules may communicate with an external electronic device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, Bluetooth low energy (BLE), near field communication (NFC), Wi-Fi direct or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., the Internet or a telecommunication network such as a computer network (e.g., a local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip), or may be implemented as multi components (e.g., multi chips) separate from each other. The electronic device100may include a plurality of antennas111, and the communication circuit110may select at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network from among the plurality of antennas111. The signal or the power may be transmitted or received between the communication circuit110and the external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna.

All or some of the operations to be executed at the electronic device100may be executed by at least one external electronic device (e.g., a smartphone). For example, if the electronic device100should perform a function or a service automatically, or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device100, instead of, or in addition to, executing the function or the service by itself, may request at least one external electronic device to perform at least part of the function or the service. The at least external electronic device receiving the request may perform the at least part of the function or the service requested, or an additional function or an additional service related to the request, and transfer an outcome of the performing to the electronic device100. The electronic device100may provide the outcome, with or without further processing of the outcome, as at least part of a reply to the request.

The command or data received by the processor120may be transmitted or received between the electronic device100and an external electronic device (e.g., a smailphone) through a server connected to the second network (e.g., the Internet, or a telecommunication network such as a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN)).

The processor120may be configured to control various signal flows and control information collection and output regarding audio data. The processor120may be configured to receive audio data from an external electronic device (e.g., a server, a smailphone, a PC, a PDA, or an access point) through the communication circuit110, and store the received audio data in the memory130. The processor120may be configured to receive non-volatile audio data (or download audio data) from an external electronic device and store the received non-volatile audio data in a non-volatile memory. The processor120may be configured to receive volatile audio data (or streaming audio data) from an external electronic device and store the received volatile audio data in a volatile memory.

The processor120may be configured to play back audio data (e.g., non-volatile audio data or volatile audio data) stored in the memory130for output through the speaker191. For example, the audio module190may generate an audio signal that may be output through the speaker191by decoding the audio data (e.g., audio data playback), and the generated audio signal may be output through the speaker191.

The processor120may be configured to receive an audio signal from an external electronic device and output the received audio signal through the speaker191. For example, an external electronic device (e.g., an audio playback device) may generate an audio signal by decoding audio data, and may transmit the generated audio signal to the electronic device100.

A mode in which the electronic device100plays back volatile audio data or non-volatile audio data stored in the memory130and outputs it through the speaker191may be paused when a state in which the electronic device100is not coupled to the user's ear is confirmed through the sensor module150. When the state in which the electronic device100is coupled to the user's ear is confirmed through the sensor module150, the mode may be resumed.

A mode in which an audio signal is received from external electronic device and the received audio signal is output through the speaker191may be paused while the electronic device100is not coupled to the user's ear is confirmed through the sensor module150. When the state in which the electronic device100is coupled to the user's ear is confirmed through the sensor module150, the mode may be resumed.

When the electronic device100is communicatively connected to another electronic device set for ears (e.g., the second electronic device220ofFIG.2), the electronic device for one ear may be the master device and the electronic device for the other ear may be a slave device. For example, the electronic device100, which is the master device, may not only output an audio signal received from an external electronic device (e.g., a smailphone) to the speaker191, but also transmit the audio signal to the electronic device for the other ear (e.g., the second electronic device220inFIG.2). The electronic device for the other ear may be implemented substantially the same as the electronic device100, and may output the audio signal received from the electronic device100through the speaker.

The electronic device100may provide a voice recognition function for generating a voice command from an analog audio signal received through the microphone192. The voice command may be utilized for various functions related to audio data.

The electronic device100may include a plurality of microphones (e.g., the microphone192) capable of detecting the direction of sound. At least one of the plurality of microphones may be utilized for noise-cancelling.

The electronic device100may further include various modules according to its provision form. It is not possible to enumerate all of the variations due to the convergence trend of digital devices; however, components equivalent to the above-mentioned components may be additionally included in the electronic device100. Further, in the electronic device100according to an embodiment of the disclosure, it is also possible to exclude specific components from the above components or replace some components with other components, according to the provision form thereof. This will be easily understood by those of ordinary skill in the art.

The communication circuit110may transmit or receive data through wireless communication with another electronic device. The communication circuit110may support wireless communication (e.g., Bluetooth, Bluetooth low energy, or Wi-Fi) that another electronic device is able to support, and the communication circuit110may perform various operations (e.g., advertisement signal output, paging signal output, wireless communication channel creation or wireless communication channel release) using the wireless communication supported thereby.

The memory130may store data received through the communication circuit110and/or the charging circuit140or information stored while the electronic device100is manufactured. The memory130may store information for a wireless communication connection between another electronic device and the electronic device100. For example, the memory130may store address information about another electronic device.

The charging circuit140may perform an operation (e.g., control of the reception speed of power and control of the operation of transmitting the received power to the battery180of the electronic device100) related to reception of power transmitted by the third electronic device through electrical connection between the electronic device100and the third electronic device (e.g., the third electronic device300ofFIG.3). The electronic device100may be electrically connected to the third electronic device in various ways. The electronic device100may be electrically connected to the third electronic device through the contact between a terminal of the electronic device100(e.g., the first charging terminal212ofFIG.2) and a terminal of the third electronic device (e.g., a third charging terminal322or a fourth charging terminal324ofFIG.3). As the terminal of the electronic device100and the terminal of the third electronic device are electrically connected, the charging circuit140may receive power from the third electronic device and a communication channel between the electronic device100and the third electronic device may be generated. The charging circuit140may exchange various data with the third electronic device through the communication channel generated between the electronic device100and the third electronic device. The charging circuit140may transmit data received from the third electronic device to the processor120.

The communication channel between the electronic device100and the third electronic device may be a communication channel of various types that may be implemented by an electrical connection between the electronic device100and the third electronic device. The electrical connection between the electronic device100and the third electronic device may be made through the contact between the terminal of the electronic device100and the terminal of the third electronic device. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the communication channel between the electronic device100and the third electronic device may be a communication channel implemented by power line communication (PLC). According to another embodiment of the disclosure, the electrical connection between the electronic device100and the third electronic device may be a connection by wireless communication (e.g., Bluetooth, BLE, or NFC) that is made without the contact between the electronic device100and the third electronic device through terminals.

The electronic device100and the third electronic device may transmit or receive, through the communication channel generated by the electrical connection between the electronic device100and the third electronic device, state information for the electronic device100(e.g., the charging state (remaining capacity state, charging voltage or temperature) of the electronic device100or information about another electronic device connected to the electronic device100), state information for the second electronic device (e.g., charging state information for the second electronic device220ofFIG.2), or state information for the third electronic device (e.g., information about whether the third electronic device300ofFIG.3is charged or temperature information for the third electronic device300).

The processor120may be operatively connected to various electronic components (e.g., the communication circuit110, the memory130, and/or the charging circuit140) included in the electronic device100and may control various components operatively connected to the processor120.

The components (e.g., the communication circuit110, the processor120, the memory130, and/or the charging circuit140) shown inFIG.1and the embodiment have been described using the electronic device100(e.g., the first electronic device210ofFIG.2) as an example; however, the same may be applied to the second electronic device (e.g., the second electronic device220ofFIG.2).

Hereinafter, a configuration of an electronic device according to an embodiment will be described with reference toFIG.2andFIG.3.

FIG.2is a diagram200schematically illustrating structures of Bluetooth electronic devices according to an embodiment of the disclosure.FIG.3is a diagram schematically illustrating a structure of a third electronic device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.2, the first electronic device210(e.g., the electronic device100ofFIG.1) and the second electronic device220may perform wireless communication in a short range according to a Bluetooth network defined by the Bluetooth SIG. The Bluetooth network may include, for example, a Bluetooth legacy network and a Bluetooth low energy (BLE) network. According to an embodiment, the first electronic device210and the second electronic device220may perform wireless communication through one of the Bluetooth legacy network and the BLE network, or may perform wireless communication through the two networks.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first electronic device210and the second electronic device220may be accessory devices (e.g., earphones) constituting one set. For example, the first electronic device210and the second electronic device200may be devices that receive the same data (e.g., audio data) from one external electronic device (e.g., a smartphone). The first electronic device210and the second electronic device220may have the form of wireless earphones respectively inserted into both ears of the user. The first electronic device210and the second electronic device220may be completely inserted into the user's ears in the form of a “bean”.

The first electronic device210may include a first sensor211. The first sensor211may be disposed at a position where the first sensor211is brought into contact with the third sensor311of a cover310of the third electronic device300when the first electronic device210is inserted into the first socket321of the third electronic device300, which will be described later with reference toFIG.3, and the cover310is in a closed state. The first sensor211may interact with the third sensor311included in the cover310of the third electronic device300to identify whether or not the cover310of the third electronic device300is in an open state.

The first sensor211may be a magnetic force sensor. The third sensor311may be a magnetic force sensor or a magnetic material. When the first sensor211of the first electronic device210is in contact with the third sensor311of the cover310with the first electronic device210inserted into the first socket321of the third electronic device300and the cover310of the third electronic device300closed, the magnetic force sensed by the first sensor211may be equal to or greater than a threshold value, and the first electronic device210may sense that the cover310of the third electronic device300is in the closes state. When the first electronic device210is inserted into the first socket321of the third electronic device300and the cover310of the third electronic device300is open, the magnetic force sensed by the first sensor211may be less than the threshold value, and the first electronic device210may sense that the cover310of the third electronic device300is in the open state.

The second electronic device220may include a second sensor221. The second sensor221may be disposed at a position where the second sensor221is brought into contact with the fourth sensor312of the cover310of the third electronic device300when the second electronic device220is inserted into the second socket323of the third electronic device300, which will be described later with reference toFIG.3, and the cover310is in the closed state. The second sensor231may interact with the fourth sensor312included in the cover310of the third electronic device300to identify whether or not the cover310of the third electronic device300is in an open state.

The second sensor221may be a magnetic force sensor. The fourth sensor312may be a magnetic force sensor or a magnetic material. When the second sensor221of the second electronic device220is in contact with the fourth sensor312of the cover310with the second electronic device220inserted into the second socket323of the third electronic device300and the cover310of the third electronic device300closed, the magnetic force sensed by the second sensor221may be equal to or greater than a threshold value, and the second electronic device220may sense that the cover310of the third electronic device300is in the closes state. When the second electronic device220is inserted into the second socket323of the third electronic device300and the cover310of the third electronic device300is open, the magnetic force sensed by the second sensor221may be less than the threshold value, and the second electronic device220may sense that the cover310of the third electronic device300is in the open state.

The first electronic device210may include the first charging terminal212. The first charging terminal212may be connected to the third charging terminal322of the third electronic device300, which will be described later with reference toFIG.3, to receive power from the third electronic device300. The first electronic device210may be used to charge the battery (e.g., the battery180ofFIG.1) of the first electronic device210through the received power. When the first charging terminal212is electrically connected to the third charging terminal322of the third electronic device300, the first electronic device210may sense that the first electronic device210is in the charging state. The first electronic device210may receive, from the third electronic device300, information on whether the cover of the third electronic device300is in the open state.

The second electronic device220may include a second charging terminal222. The second charging terminal222may be connected to the fourth charging terminal324of the third electronic device300, which will be described later with reference toFIG.3, to receive power from the third electronic device300. The second electronic device220may be used to charge the battery of the second electronic device220through the received power. When the second charging terminal222is electrically connected to the fourth charging terminal324of the third electronic device300, the second electronic device220may sense that the second electronic device220is in the charging state.

Each of the first electronic device210and the second electronic device220may recognize a counterpart device (e.g., the second electronic device220or the first electronic device210) in advance, or store information about the counterpart device (e.g., address information) in advance.

When the first electronic device210identifies that the cover310of the third electronic device300is in the open state, the first electronic device210may establish a first communication link with the second electronic device220.

In order to establish the first communication link with the second electronic device220, the first electronic device210, which is an electronic device that will serve as a master, may perform a BLE scan. The second electronic device220, which is an electronic device that will serve as a slave, may perform BLE advertising. Alternatively, when the first electronic device210and the second electronic device220operate a communication link using Bluetooth legacy instead of Bluetooth low energy (BLE), the first electronic device210may perform paging, and the second electronic device220may perform a page scan. Alternatively, according to an embodiment, the second electronic device220may serve as the master and the first electronic device210may serve as the slave. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the device serving as the master and the device serving as the slave may be changed. For example, a device serving as the master may be determined based on the remaining battery level.

The first electronic device210may receive information on whether the second electronic device220is in the charging state from the second electronic device220through the first communication link.

Referring toFIG.3, the third electronic device300may include a body320and the cover310. In the third electronic device300, the body320and the cover310may be connected to each other so that the cover310covers one surface of the body320.

The body320of the third electronic device300may include the first socket321into which the first electronic device210may be inserted. The third charging terminal322may be positioned in the first socket321. The third charging terminal322may be connected to the first charging terminal212of the first electronic device210to be used to charge the first electronic device210.

The body320of the third electronic device300may include the second socket323into which the second electronic device220may be inserted. The fourth charging terminal324may be positioned in the second socket323. The fourth charging terminal324may be connected to the second charging terminal222of the second electronic device220to be used to charge the second electronic device220. The cover310of the third electronic device300may include the third sensor311. The third sensor311may be disposed at a position corresponding to the first socket321positioned on the body320so that the first electronic device210may be inserted, in the surface of the cover310covering one surface of the body320. The third sensor311may sense the first sensor211of the first electronic device210or the second sensor221of the second electronic device220to be used to identify whether the cover310of the third electronic device300is in the open state. The third sensor311may interact with the first sensor211of the first electronic device210in the state in which the first electronic device210is inserted into the first socket321. The third sensor311may be a magnetic force sensor or a magnetic material. When the cover310is closed in the state in which the first electronic device210is inserted into the first socket321and the first sensor211of the first electronic device210and the third sensor311of the cover310are close to each other, the magnetic force sensed by the first sensor211may be equal to or greater than a threshold value. When the magnetic force sensed by the first sensor211is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the first electronic device210may sense that the cover310of the third electronic device300is in the closed state.

The cover310of the third electronic device300may include the fourth sensor312. The fourth sensor312may be disposed at a position corresponding to the second socket323positioned on the body320so that the second electronic device220may be inserted, in the surface of the cover310covering one surface of the body320. The fourth sensor312may be used to identify whether the cover310of the third electronic device300is in the open state. The fourth sensor312may interact with the second sensor221of the second electronic device220in the state in which the second electronic device220is inserted into the second socket323. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the fourth sensor312may be a magnetic force sensor or a magnetic material. When the cover310is closed in the state in which the second electronic device230is inserted into the second socket323and the third sensor231of the second electronic device220and the fourth sensor312of the cover310are close to each other, the magnetic force sensed by the second sensor221may be equal to or greater than a threshold value. The second electronic device220may be electrically connected to the fourth charging terminal324through the second charging terminal222, and when the magnetic force sensed by the second sensor221is equal to or greater than a threshold value, may sense that the cover310of the third electronic device300is in the closed state. The first electronic device210or the second electronic device220may receive, from the third electronic device300, information on whether the cover of the third electronic device300is in the open state.

Hereinafter, an operation of an electronic device according to an embodiment will be described with reference toFIG.4. A description of the same configuration as in the above-described embodiments may be omitted.

FIG.4is a flowchart400illustrating an operation of the first electronic device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Hereinafter, a description will be given assuming that the first electronic device serves as the master and the second electronic device serves as the slave.

Referring toFIG.4, in operation401, the first electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device210ofFIG.2) may determine whether the cover (the cover310ofFIG.3) of the third electronic device (e.g., the third electronic device300ofFIG.3) is open. Alternatively, the first electronic device may determine whether the cover of the third electronic device that has been closed is open. A method for the first electronic device to determine whether the cover of the third electronic device is open may be the same as the method in the embodiments described with reference toFIGS.2and3. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the method of determining whether the cover of the third electronic device that has been closed is open may determine that the cover of the third electronic device that has been closed is open when the first electronic device or the second electronic device senses a change in magnetic force through the first sensor or the second sensor.

In operation402, when it is determined that the cover of the third electronic device is open, the first electronic device may power on the first electronic device. At this time, when it is determined that the cover of the third electronic device is open, the second electronic device may also power on the second electronic device. Alternatively, when it is determined that the cover of the third electronic device is open, the first electronic device may change its mode from a sleep mode to a wakeup mode.

In operation403, the first electronic device may establish a first communication link with the second electronic device. The method of establishing the first communication link may be the same as the method in the embodiment described above with reference toFIG.2. After establishing the first communication link, the first electronic device210and the second electronic device220may enable a page scan in order to receive a connection request of other electronic devices. When the first electronic device210and the second electronic device220have a history of creating a communication link with a first external electronic device (e.g., a smailphone) that is another external Bluetooth electronic device, the first electronic device210may make a connection request to the first external electronic device after establishing the first communication link. After establishing the first communication link, the first electronic device may establish a second communication link with the first external electronic device having the history of previously creating the communication link with the first electronic device.

In operation404, the first electronic device may determine whether the first communication link connection with the second electronic device is successful. When the first electronic device and the second electronic device are successfully connected to the first communication link, the first electronic device210and the second electronic device220may exchange, with each other, information on the charging state and information on a battery level whenever the battery level is changed, through the first communication link.

In operation405, the first electronic device may determine whether the first electronic device and the second electronic device are connected to the third electronic device if it is determined that the first communication link with the second electronic device is successful.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the reference to connecting the first electronic device and the third electronic device to each other may mean that the first electronic device is inserted into the socket of the third electronic device (e.g., the first socket321ofFIG.3). According to another embodiment of the disclosure, the reference to connecting the first electronic device and the third electronic device to each other may mean that the charging terminal of the first electronic device (e.g., the first charging terminal212ofFIG.2) is electrically connected to the charging terminal of the third electronic device (e.g., the third charging terminal322ofFIG.3). The method of determining whether the first electronic device and the third electronic device are connected to each other may be the same as the method in the embodiments described with reference toFIGS.2and3.

The first electronic device may receive information on whether the second electronic device is connected to the third electronic device from the second electronic device through the first communication link. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the reference to connecting the second electronic device and the third electronic device to each other may mean that the second electronic device is inserted into the socket of the third electronic device (e.g., the second socket323ofFIG.3). According to another embodiment of the disclosure, the reference to connecting the second electronic device and the third electronic device to each other may mean that the charging terminal of the second electronic device (e.g., the second charging terminal222ofFIG.2) is electrically connected to the charging terminal of the third electronic device (e.g., the fourth charging terminal324ofFIG.3). The method of determining whether the second electronic device and the third electronic device are connected to each other may be the same as the method in the embodiments described with reference toFIGS.2and3. The second electronic device may determine whether it is connected to the third electronic device and transfer information thereon to the first electronic device through the first communication link.

In operation406, the first electronic device may change the first electronic device from an inquiry scan disable mode to an inquiry scan enable mode if it is determined that both the first electronic device and the second electronic device are connected to the third electronic device. The first electronic device may determine that it is necessary to entry a pairing mode by identifying that the cover of the third electronic device is in the open state and identifying that the first electronic device is in a power-on state, the first communication link with the second electronic device is in an established state, and both the first electronic device and the second electronic device are in the charging state. If it is determined that it is necessary to enter the pairing mode, the first electronic device may switch to the inquiry scan enable mode in order to receive a search request of a nearby electronic device.

The Bluetooth electronic device (e.g., a smartphone) may identify a nearby device through an inquiry operation. In general, the Bluetooth electronic device performing an inquiry may continuously transmit an ID packet generated based on a general inquiry access code (GIAC) during a predetermined inquiry period, and the inquiry process may be performed by receiving the ID packet and transmitting a frequency hop synchronization (FHS) packet in response thereto by the electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device) performing the inquiry scan. The FHS packet may include at least one of a Bluetooth address of the electronic device performing the inquiry scan, a class of device (COD) indicating the type of the inquiry scan electronic device, an extended inquiry response (EIR) bit indicating whether there is a next packet, and clock information for the electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device) performing the inquiry scan.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, an EIR packet is a main packet for transferring various pieces of information at the time of the inquiry, and may include important information to be used for connection and service such as a device name of the electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device) performing the inquiry scan for transferring the EIR packet, a transmit power level (Tx power level), a service class universal unique identifier (UUID), and manufacture's data. The Bluetooth electronic device (e.g., a smartphone) performing an inquiry may be able to provide various services based on various information acquired at the time of the inquiry through the EIR packet.

The Bluetooth electronic device (e.g., a smartphone) performing the inquiry may receive the FHS packet and the EIR packet, and provide the user with the Bluetooth address, name, and device type, or the like, of the discovered electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device) performing the inquiry scan through a user interface (UX) to induce connection of the user. For example, if the user searches for connectable electronic devices in the Bluetooth settings of the electronic device (e.g., a smartphone) of the user, the electronic device (e.g., a smartphone) of the user may provide the discovered connectable electronic devices to the user through the UX based on a certain criterion. The electronic device (e.g., a smartphone) of the user may preferentially display an electronic device having a strong signal strength among connectable electronic devices, or may display the names of the connectable electronic devices in alphabetical order. In addition, the discovered connectable electronic devices may be displayed based on various criteria.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first electronic device may correspond to an inquiry scan electronic device capable of making its existence known in response to a search request of an external inquiry electronic device performing a search. If the inquiry scan electronic device responds to all search requests of external devices, the Bluetooth address of the inquiry scan electronic device may be exposed to the outside and the user may receive an unintentional connection request, and accordingly, the inquiry scan electronic device may switch to the inquiry scan enable mode only if a specific condition is satisfied. The first electronic device may switch to the inquiry scan enable mode by identifying that the cover of the third electronic device is in the open state and the first electronic device and the second electronic device are connected to the third electronic device.

The first electronic device switched to the inquiry scan enable mode may perform the inquiry scan using low power and/or a low received signal strength indicator (RSSI). For example, if the first electronic device responds (e.g., transmits the FHS packet) to a search request (e.g., reception of an ID packet) of an external Bluetooth electronic device located at a far distance in the inquiry scan enable mode, the first electronic device may receive a connection request from the external Bluetooth electronic device located at the far distance contrary to the user's intention. Accordingly, the first electronic device may respond only to a search request of the external Bluetooth electronic device having a specific signal strength or higher. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first electronic device may respond only to a search request of a specified signal strength (e.g., −45 dBm or more) of the external Bluetooth electronic device.

According to another embodiment of the disclosure, the first electronic device responds to all received search requests, but may respond with a specific transmit power (Tx power). The first electronic device may transmit a response signal with a specified signal strength (e.g., −10 dBm or less). In this case, the external Bluetooth electronic device located at a distance far away from the first electronic device may not receive the response signal of the first electronic device, and thus it is possible to prevent the first electronic device from receiving a connection request of the external Bluetooth electronic device located at a far distance contrary to the user's intention.

The second external electronic device that has received the response signal transmitted by the first electronic device switched to the inquiry scan enable mode may receive the FHS packet and the EIR packet, and provide the Bluetooth address, name, or device type of the first electronic device to the user of the inquiry electronic device. When the user of the second external electronic device selects the discovered first electronic device, the first electronic device and the second external electronic device may establish a third communication link. In this case, when the first electronic device is connected to the first external electronic device by the second communication link, the first electronic device may release the second communication link and establish the third communication link with the second external electronic device. Alternatively, when the first electronic device is an electronic device providing a multi-point connection, the first electronic device may establish the third communication link with the second external electronic device while maintaining the second communication link.

In operation407, the first electronic device may determine whether a reason for terminating the inquiry scan enable mode occurs. The first electronic device may switch the inquiry scan enable mode to the inquiry scan disable mode as the reason for terminating the inquiry scan enable mode occurs.

Then the first communication link is released, the first electronic device may switch to the inquiry scan disable mode. The first electronic device may switch to the inquiry scan disable mode when at least one of the first electronic device and the second electronic device is disconnected from the third electronic device. The first electronic device may switch to the inquiry scan disable mode when it is identified that the cover of the third electronic device is in the closed state. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first electronic device may switch to the inquiry scan disable mode at the end of a timer set when entering the inquiry scan enable mode.

According to another embodiment of the disclosure, the first electronic device may switch to the inquiry scan disable mode when the battery of at least one of the first electronic device and the second electronic device is exhausted and the power is turned off According to another embodiment of the disclosure, the first electronic device may switch to the inquiry scan disable mode when at least one of the first electronic device and the second electronic device is located at a distance where Bluetooth communication is not able to be maintained.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first electronic device may maintain the inquiry scan enable mode as long as the reason for terminating the inquiry scan enable mode does not occur.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, if the user wants to connect the first electronic device to the second external electronic device (e.g., a tablet PC) having no history of connecting to the first electronic device while the user is using the first electronic device by connecting it to the first external electronic device (e.g., a smartphone), the user may connect the second external electronic device and the first electronic device to each other by selecting the discovered first electronic device in the Bluetooth settings of the second external electronic device at a location close to the first electronic device in the state in which the cover of the third electronic device is in the open state after inserting the first electronic device and the second electronic device into the sockets of the third electronic device.

The flowchart ofFIG.4is only exemplary, and according to an embodiment, an operation ofFIG.4may be omitted, the order between operations may be changed, or operations may be merged.

In addition, according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first electronic device may further check external inputs of the first electronic device and the second electronic device when checking the switching condition of the inquiry scan enable mode. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first electronic device and the second electronic device may further include a touch pad to receive a user input. While the cover of the third electronic device is open, if both the first electronic device and the second electronic device are mounted on the third electronic device and the user presses both the touch pads of the first electronic device and the second electronic device, the switching to the inquiry scan enable mode may be possible. The embodiment will be described in detail below with reference toFIGS.8to9.

According to another embodiment of the disclosure, while the cover of the third electronic device is open, when both the first electronic device and the second electronic device are mounted on the third electronic device and the user presses a button included in the third electronic device for inputting, the first electronic device may receive a designated signal from the third electronic device through the first charging terminal (e.g., the first charging terminal212ofFIG.2) and switch to the inquiry scan enable mode.

According to another embodiment of the disclosure, if it is determined that the cover of the third electronic device is open and the first electronic device and the second electronic device are connected to the third electronic device, the first electronic device may determine whether a certain time elapses since the cover of the third electronic device gets open, and if it is determined that the certain time elapses since the cover of the third electronic device gets open, the first electronic device may enter the inquiry scan enable mode and perform the inquiry scan for a certain time.

According to another embodiment of the disclosure, as the user opens the cover of the third electronic device and inserts the first electronic device and the second electronic device into the third electronic device, the first electronic device may determine that the cover of the third electronic device is open and the first electronic device and the second electronic device are connected to the third electronic device, and accordingly, may enter the inquiry scan enable mode.

Hereinafter, an operation of an electronic device according to an embodiment will be described with reference toFIG.5. A description of the same configuration as in the above-described embodiments may be omitted.

FIG.5is a flowchart500illustrating an operation of a second electronic device (e.g., the second electronic device220ofFIG.2) according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Hereinafter, a description will be given assuming that the first electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device210ofFIG.2) serves as the master and the second electronic device serves as the slave.

Referring toFIG.5, in operation501, the second electronic device (e.g., the second electronic device220ofFIG.2) may determine whether the cover (the cover310ofFIG.3) of the third electronic device (e.g., the third electronic device300ofFIG.3) is open. Alternatively, the second electronic device may determine whether the cover of the third electronic device that has been closed is open. A method for determining, by the second electronic device, whether the cover of the third electronic device is open may be the same as the method in the embodiments described with reference toFIGS.2and3. The method of determining whether the cover of the third electronic device that has been closed is open may determine that the cover of the third electronic device that has been closed gets open when the first electronic device or the second electronic device senses a change in magnetic force through the first sensor or the second sensor.

In operation502, when it is determined that the cover of the third electronic device is open, the second electronic device may power on the second electronic device. Alternatively, when it is determined that the cover of the third electronic device is open, the second electronic device may change its mode from a sleep mode to a wakeup mode.

In operation503, the second electronic device may establish the first communication link with the first electronic device. The method of establishing the first communication link may be the same as the method in the embodiment described above with reference toFIG.2.

In operation504, the second electronic device may determine whether the second electronic device and the third electronic device are connected to each other if it is determined that the first communication link with the first electronic device is successful. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the reference to connecting the second electronic device and the third electronic device to each other may mean that the second electronic device is inserted into the socket of the third electronic device (e.g., the second socket323ofFIG.3). According to another embodiment of the disclosure, the reference to connecting the second electronic device and the third electronic device to each other may mean that the charging terminal of the second electronic device (e.g., the second charging terminal222ofFIG.2) is connected to the charging terminal of the third electronic device (e.g., the fourth charging terminal324ofFIG.3). The method of determining whether the second electronic device and the third electronic device are connected to each other may be the same as the method in the embodiments described with reference toFIGS.2and3.

In operation505, the second electronic device may transmit information on whether the second electronic device is connected to the third electronic device, to the first electronic device through the first communication link. The second electronic device may determine whether it is connected to the third electronic device and transfer information thereon to the first electronic device through the first communication link.

Hereinafter, an operation of an electronic device according to an embodiment will be described with reference toFIG.6. A description of the same configuration as in the above-described embodiments may be omitted.

FIG.6is a diagram600for describing an operation of a first electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device210ofFIG.2) according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Hereinafter, a description will be given assuming that the first electronic device serves as the master and a second electronic device (e.g., the second electronic device220ofFIG.2) serves as the slave.

Referring toFIG.6, a first electronic device621may determine whether a cover of a third electronic device610is open. Alternatively, the first electronic device621may determine whether the cover of the third electronic device610that has been closed gets open. A method for determining, by the first electronic device621, whether the cover of the third electronic device610is open may be the same as the method in the embodiments described with reference toFIGS.2and3. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the method of determining whether the cover of the third electronic device610that has been closed is open may determine that the cover of the third electronic device610that has been closed gets open when the first electronic device621or a second electronic device622senses a change in magnetic force through the first sensor or the second sensor. Further, the first electronic device621may determine whether the first electronic device621and the second electronic device622are connected to the third electronic device610. The method of determining whether the first electronic device621and the second electronic device622are connected to the third electronic device610may be the same as the method in the embodiments described with reference toFIGS.2and3.

The first electronic device621may change the first electronic device621from an inquiry scan disable mode to an inquiry scan enable mode if it is determined that the cover of the third electronic device610is open and both the first electronic device621and the second electronic device622are connected to the third electronic device610.

A first external electronic device630, a second external electronic device640, and a third external electronic device650may be located around the first electronic device621in the order of increasing distance. The first external electronic device630, the second external electronic device640, and the third external electronic device650may continuously transmit, to an inquiry electronic device during a predetermined inquiry period, an ID packet generated based on a general inquiry access code (GIAC).

The first electronic device621switched to the inquiry scan enable mode may perform the inquiry scan using a low received signal strength indicator (RSSI). According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first electronic device621may respond only to a search request of the external Bluetooth electronic device having a specific threshold value or higher. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first electronic device621may transmit a response only to the inquiry of the first external electronic device630having the signal strength of the threshold value or higher among the inquiries of the first external electronic device630, the second external electronic device640, and the third external electronic device650. In this way, it is possible to prevent the first electronic device621from receiving a connection request of an external Bluetooth electronic device located at a far distance contrary to the user's intention.

According to another embodiment of the disclosure, the first electronic device621may respond only to a search request of a specific threshold value or higher of the external Bluetooth electronic device, and if the search request of the specific threshold value or higher is not searched for, the first electronic device621may adjust the threshold value to a lower value to respond to the search request of the adjusted threshold value or higher.

Alternatively, although not shown inFIG.6, according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first electronic device621may respond to all inquiries of the first external electronic device630, the second external electronic device640, and the third external electronic device650, with the transmit power (Tx power) of a specific threshold value or lower. In this case, the second external electronic device640and the third external electronic device650located far away from the first electronic device621may not receive the response signal of the first electronic device621. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the first electronic device621from receiving a connection request of an external Bluetooth electronic device located at a far distance contrary to the user's intention.

Hereinafter, an operation of an electronic device according to an embodiment will be described with reference toFIG.7. A description of the same configuration as in the above-described embodiments may be omitted.

FIG.7is a flowchart700illustrating an operation of a third electronic device (e.g., the third electronic device300ofFIG.3) according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Hereinafter, a description will be given assuming that a first electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device210ofFIG.2) serves as the master and a second electronic device (e.g., the second electronic device220ofFIG.2) serves as the slave.

Referring toFIG.7, in operation701, the third electronic device (e.g., the third electronic device300ofFIG.3) may determine whether the first electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device210ofFIG.2) and the second electronic device (e.g., the second electronic device220ofFIG.2) are connected to the third electronic device.

When the first electronic device and the second electronic device are mounted on the sockets of the third electronic device (e.g., the first socket321and/or the second socket323ofFIG.3), at least one charging terminal (e.g., the first charging terminal212ofFIG.2) of the first electronic device may be electrically connected to at least one charging terminal (e.g., a flexible terminal such as a pogo pin) (e.g., the third charging terminal322or fourth charging terminal324ofFIG.3) disposed on the sockets of the third electronic device. The first electronic device and/or the second electronic device may charge the battery through power received from the third electronic device through the charging terminal. The third electronic device may perform power line communication (PLC) communication with the first electronic device and/or the second electronic device through the charging terminal. The third electronic device may exchange various data with the first electronic device and/or the second electronic device through the communication channel generated between the first electronic device and/or the second electronic device. The communication channel between the first electronic device and/or the second electronic device and the third electronic device may be a communication channel implemented by power line communication (PLC).

In operation702, if it is determined that the first electronic device and the second electronic device are connected to the third electronic device, the third electronic device may transmit information on the second electronic device to the first electronic device. The information on the second electronic device may include information on whether the second electronic device is connected to the third electronic device. InFIG.5, it is determined whether the second electronic device is connected to the third electronic device and information thereon is transmitted to the first electronic device through the first communication link; however, this corresponds to an embodiment, and as shown inFIG.7, the third electronic device may transmit information on the second electronic device to the first electronic device.

In addition, the third electronic device may transmit state information for the second electronic device (e.g., the state of charge of the second electronic device (remaining capacity state, state of charge voltage or temperature)) or state information for the third electronic device (e.g., whether the third electronic device is charging or temperature information) through the communication channel generated by the electrical connection between the first electronic device and the third electronic device.

An electronic device (210) according to an embodiment of the disclosure includes a wireless communication circuit (110) for Bluetooth communication, a sensor (211), a connection terminal (212) for connection with a first external electronic device (300), a processor (120) operatively connected to the sensor and the wireless communication circuit, and a memory (130) operatively connected to the processor, in which the memory may store instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to determine by means of the sensor whether a cover (310) of the first external electronic device is open; determine whether or not the connection terminal is electrically connected to the first external electronic device if it is determined that the cover of the first external electronic device is open, and, switch the wireless communication circuit to an inquiry scan enable mode if it is determined that the connection terminal is connected to the first external electronic device.

The instructions may cause the processor to receive information about whether or not a second external electronic device (220) connected to the electronic device through a first communication link using the wireless communication circuit of the electronic device is electrically connected to the first external electronic device, from the second external electronic device through the first communication link, and perform switching to the inquiry scan enable mode if it is further determined that the second external electronic device is connected to the first external electronic device.

The instructions may cause the processor to receive an inquiry signal from a third external electronic device (630,640, or650) after switching to the inquiry scan enable mode, and respond to the received inquiry signal if a strength of the inquiry signal is equal to or greater than a threshold value.

The instructions may cause the processor to receive an inquiry signal from a third external electronic device (630,640, or650) after switching to the inquiry scan enable mode, and respond to the received inquiry signal with a signal strength that is lower than or equal to a threshold value.

The sensor (211) may be a magnetic force sensor, and the instructions may cause the processor to determine whether or not the cover is open through the magnetic force sensor (311) included in the first external electronic device (300).

The instructions may cause the processor to power on the electronic device (210) if it is determined that the cover (310) of the first external electronic device (300) is in an open state.

The instructions may cause the processor to establish a first communication link with a second external electronic device (220) through the wireless communication circuit (110) after powering on the electronic device (210).

The instructions may cause the processor to charge a battery (180) of the electronic device with power received from the first external electronic device through the connection terminal (212) if the electronic device is electrically connected to the first external electronic device (300) through the connection terminal.

The instructions may cause the processor to respond to an inquiry received from a third external electronic device (630,640, or630), and establish a third communication link with the third external electronic device if a connection request is received from the third external electronic device.

An electronic device (220) according to an embodiment of the disclosure may include a wireless communication circuit (110) for Bluetooth communication, a sensor (221), a connection terminal (222) for connection with a first external electronic device, a processor (120) operatively connected to the sensor and the wireless communication circuit, and a memory (130) operatively connected to the processor, in which the memory stores instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to determine by means of the sensor (221) whether a cover (310) of the first external electronic device (300) is open, determine whether or not the connection terminal (222) is electrically connected to the first external electronic device (300) if it is determined that the cover of the first external electronic device is open, and transmit, by means of the wireless communication circuit (110), information about whether or not the electronic device and the first external electronic device are electrically connected to each other to the second external electronic device (210) connected to the electronic device through the first communication link, if it is determined that the connection terminal is in a state of being connected to the first external electronic device.

The instructions may cause the processor to power on the electronic device (220) if it is determined that the cover of the first external electronic device (300) is in an open state.

The instructions may cause the processor to establish the first communication link with the second external electronic device (210) through the wireless communication circuit after powering on the electronic device (220).

A method for operating an electronic device including a wireless communication circuit for Bluetooth communication, according to an embodiment of the disclosure includes determining by means of a sensor (211) of the electronic device (210) whether a cover (310) of a first external electronic device (300) is open, determining whether or not a connection terminal (212) of the electronic device is electrically connected to the first external electronic device if it is determined that the cover of the first external electronic device is open, and performing switching to an inquiry scan enable mode if it is determined that the connection terminal is connected to the first external electronic device.

The operating method may further include receiving, from a second external electronic device (220) connected to the electronic device through a first communication link, information about whether or not the second external electronic device is connected to the first external electronic device (300), and performing switching to the inquiry scan enable mode if it is further determined that the second external electronic device is connected to the first external electronic device.

The operating method may further include receiving an inquiry from a third external electronic device (630,640, or650) after switching to the inquiry scan enable mode, and responding to the received inquiry if a strength of a signal of the inquiry is equal to or greater than a threshold value.

The operating method may further include receiving an inquiry from a third external electronic device after switching to the inquiry scan enable mode, and responding to the received inquiry signal with a strength of a signal of the threshold value or lower.

In the operating method, the sensor (211) may be a magnetic force sensor, and may determine whether or not the cover is open through the magnetic force sensor (311) included in the first external electronic device (300).

The operating method may further include powering on the electronic device (210) if it is determined that the cover (310) of the first external electronic device (300) is in an open state.

The operating method may further include establishing a first communication link with a second external electronic device (220) after powering on the electronic device (210).

The operating method may further include charging a battery (180) of the electronic device with power of the first external electronic device (300) if the electronic device is electrically connected to the first external electronic device (300) through the connection terminal (212).

Hereinafter, an operation of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the disclosure will be described with reference toFIGS.8and9. A description of the same configuration as in the above-described embodiments may be omitted.

FIG.8is a block diagram800illustrating a configuration of a third electronic device (e.g., the third electronic device300ofFIG.3) according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG.9is a flowchart900illustrating an operation of a first electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device210ofFIG.2) according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.8, a third electronic device (e.g., the third electronic device300ofFIG.3) may include a processor810, a memory820, a communication circuit830, and a charging circuit840.

The communication circuit830may transmit and receive data to and from one or more of the first electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device210ofFIG.2), a second electronic device (e.g., the second electronic device220ofFIG.2), and an external electronic device (e.g., a smailphone) through wireless communication.

The communication circuit830may support wireless communication (e.g., Bluetooth, Bluetooth low energy, or Wi-Fi) that the first electronic device210, the second electronic device220or the external electronic device is able to support, and the communication circuit830may perform various operations (e.g., advertisement signal output, paging signal output, wireless communication channel creation or wireless communication channel release) using the wireless communication supported thereby. The communication circuit830may transmit, to the first electronic device210and/or the second electronic device220, a signal for controlling the operation of the first electronic device210and/or the second electronic device220(e.g., a content output operation of the first electronic device210and/or the second electronic device220).

The charging circuit840may perform an operation related to power transmission to the first electronic device210(e.g., transmission rate control for power) through the physical/electrical connection between the first electronic device210and the third electronic device300. The third electronic device300may be physically/electrically connected to the first electronic device210in various ways.

The third electronic device300may have a space into which the first electronic device210and/or the second electronic device220may be inserted (e.g., the first socket321or the second socket323ofFIG.3). If the first electronic device210is inserted into the first socket321of the third electronic device300, the charging terminal of the third electronic device300(e.g., the third charging terminal322ofFIG.3) and the charging terminal of the first electronic device210(e.g., the first charging terminal212ofFIG.2) may be electrically connected to each other. If the second electronic device220is inserted into the second socket323of the third electronic device300, the charging terminal of the third electronic device300(e.g., the fourth charging terminal324ofFIG.3) and the charging terminal of the second electronic device220(e.g., the second charging terminal222ofFIG.2) may be electrically connected to each other.

If contact between the first charging terminal212of the first electronic device210and the third charging terminal322of the third electronic device300occurs, the electrical connection between the first electronic device210and the third electronic device300may be generated. The third electronic device300may transmit power to the first electronic device210through the electrical connection between the first electronic device210and the third electronic device300, and the communication channel between the first electronic device210and the third electronic device300may be generated.

As a contact between the second charging terminal222of the second electronic device220and the fourth charging terminal324of the third electronic device300occurs, the electrical connection between the second electronic device220and the third electronic device300may be generated. The third electronic device300may transmit power to the second electronic device220, and a communication channel between the second electronic device220and the third electronic device300may be generated.

The communication channel between the first electronic device210and the third electronic device300or the communication channel between the second electronic device220and the third electronic device300may be various types of communication channels that may be implemented depending on the electrical connection between the first electronic device210and the third electronic device300or between the second electronic device220and the third electronic device300. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the electrical connection between the first electronic device210and the third electronic device300may be generated by the electrical connection between the first charging terminal212of the first electronic device210and the third charging terminal322of the third electronic device300. The communication channel between the first electronic device210and the third electronic device300may be a communication channel implemented by power line communication (PLC) generated between the charging circuit (e.g., the charging circuit140ofFIG.1) of the first electronic device210and the charging circuit840of the third electronic device300. According to another embodiment of the disclosure, the electrical connection between the first electronic device210and the third electronic device300may be a connection by wireless communication (e.g., Bluetooth, BLE, or NFC) that is made without the contact between the first electronic device210and the third electronic device300.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the electrical connection between the second electronic device220and the third electronic device300may be generated by the contact between the second charging terminal222of the second electronic device220and the fourth charging terminal324of the third electronic device300. The communication channel between the second electronic device220and the third electronic device300may be a communication channel implemented by power line communication (PLC) generated between the charging circuit of the second electronic device300and the charging circuit840of the third electronic device300. According to another embodiment of the disclosure, the electrical connection between the second electronic device220and the third electronic device300is a connection by wireless communication (e.g., Bluetooth, BLE, or NFC) that is made without the contact between the second electronic device220and the third electronic device300.

Through the communication channel generated by the electrical connection between the first electronic device210and the third electronic device300, the third electronic device300may receive state information for the first electronic device210(e.g., the charging state (e.g., remaining capacity state, charging voltage or temperature) of the first electronic device210or information about another electronic device connected to the first electronic device210), or transmit state information for the second electronic device220(e.g., charging state information for the second electronic device220), or state information for the third electronic device300(e.g., information about whether the third electronic device300is charged or temperature information for the third electronic device300).

Through the communication channel generated by the electrical connection between the second electronic device220and the third electronic device300, the third electronic device300may receive state information for the second electronic device220(e.g., the charging state (e.g., remaining capacity state, charging voltage or temperature) of the second electronic device220or information about another electronic device connected to the second electronic device220), or transmit state information for the first electronic device210(e.g., charging state information for the first electronic device210), or state information for the third electronic device300(e.g., information about whether the third electronic device300is charged or temperature information for the third electronic device300).

The memory820may store data received through the communication circuit830of the third electronic device and/or the charging circuit140or information (e.g., identification information for the third electronic device300) stored while the third electronic device300is manufactured. The memory820may store information for a wireless communication connection between the first electronic device210, the second electronic device220, and/or the external electronic device and the third electronic device300. For example, the memory820may store address information for the first electronic device210, address information for the second electronic device220, or address information for the external electronic device.

The processor810may be operatively connected to various electronic components (e.g., the memory820) included in the third electronic device300and may control various components operatively connected to the processor810.

The processor810may receive, from the first electronic device210, information about the first electronic device210through a communication channel generated by the electrical connection between the first electronic device210and the third electronic device300. The charging circuit840may receive the information about the first electronic device210from the first electronic device210through the communication channel generated by the electrical connection between the first electronic device210and the third electronic device300, and may transmit the information about the first electronic device210to the processor810.

The information about the first electronic device210may be address information for the first electronic device210which is required to be connected through the wireless communication between the first electronic device210and the second electronic device220. For example, the address information for the first electronic device210may include at least one of an IP address of the first electronic device210, an MAC address of the first electronic device210, and a Bluetooth address of the first electronic device210.

The processor810may receive information about the second electronic device220through a communication channel generated by the electrical connection between the second electronic device220and the third electronic device300.

The information about the second electronic device220may be address information for the second electronic device220which is required to be connected through the wireless communication between the first electronic device210and the second electronic device220. For example, the address information for the second electronic device220may include at least one of an IP address of the second electronic device220, an MAC address of the second electronic device220, and a Bluetooth address of the second electronic device220.

The processor810may transmit the information about the second electronic device220received from the second electronic device220to the first electronic device210. The processor810may transmit the information about the first electronic device210received from the first electronic device210to the second electronic device220.

An operation of transmitting data (e.g., address information for the second electronic device220) from the third electronic device300to the first electronic device210and an operation of transmitting data (e.g., address information for the first electronic device210) to the second electronic device220may use a bi-phase mark code method. For example, in transmitting the information about the second electronic device220to the first electronic device210, the processor810may control the charging circuit840to perform transmission in a method of controlling the voltage of a signal including the information about the second electronic device220. In another example, in receiving the information about the first electronic device210from the first electronic device210, the processor810may control the charging circuit840to receive the information about the first electronic device210in a method of controlling a current of a signal including the information about the first electronic device210. The above methods may prevent signals exchanged between the first electronic device210and the third electronic device300from interfering with each other.

A message including the information about the first electronic device300and the information about the second electronic device220exchanged through the third electronic device300may include a preamble indicating the start of data transmission, a header of data, and data. The header of data may include a type of the header, a parity bit for verifying whether the header is in error, and a start bit for indicating the start of data. The data may include a data message including the information about the first electronic device210or the information about the second electronic device220, a parity bit for verifying whether data is in error, a checksum for verifying data integrity, and a stop bit for indicating the end of data.

After receiving the information about the first electronic device210, the processor810may transmit, to the first electronic device210, a message indicating that the information about the first electronic device210has been received.

The processor810may control the data communication between the first electronic device210and the third electronic device300through the communication channel generated by the electric connection between the first electronic device210and the third electronic device300, and may control the data communication between the second electronic device220and the third electronic device300through the communication channel generated by the electric connection between the second electronic device220and the third electronic device300.

The charging circuit840may control the data communication between the first electronic device210and the third electronic device300through the communication channel generated by the electric connection between the first electronic device210and the third electronic device300, and may control the data communication between the second electronic device220and the third electronic device300through the communication channel generated by the electric connection between the second electronic device220and the third electronic device300.

The third electronic device300may further include a user interface device (e.g., an LED device (not shown)) capable of outputting an indicator indicating an operating state of the third electronic device300. The processor810may control the user interface to output an indicator indicating a state in which power is supplied (or charged) to the first electronic device210and/or the second electronic device220. The processor810may control the user interface to output an indicator indicating a state in which the first electronic device210and/or the second electronic device220exchanges data (e.g., the information about the first electronic device210or the information about the second electronic device220) with each other. The third electronic device300may control the user interface to output an indicator indicating a state in which the first electronic device210and/or the second electronic device220exchanges data (e.g., the information about the first electronic device210or the information about the second electronic device220) with each other or a state in which information on the electronic device to be paired is updated, in response to receiving a user input requesting to update the information on an electronic device to be paired in the state in which the first electronic device210and/or the second electronic device220outputs an indicator indicating that charging is in progress.

The user interface device capable of outputting the indicator indicating the operating state of the third electronic device300may be implemented in various forms. For example, the user interface device may be implemented as an LED device (not shown) capable of outputting a visual indicator. In another example, the user interface device may be implemented as a speaker capable of outputting an audible indicator (e.g., a sound indicating a state in which the first electronic device210and/or the second electronic device220updates information on the electronic device to be paired, a sound indicating the remaining battery capacity of the third electronic device300, a sound indicating the remaining battery capacity of the first electronic device210and/or the second electronic device220, and/or a sound indicating the operating state of the first electronic device210and/or the second electronic device220). In another example, the user interface device may be implemented as a haptic module capable of outputting a tactile indicator.

Referring toFIG.9, in operation901, the first electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device210ofFIG.2) may determine whether the cover (the cover310ofFIG.3) of the third electronic device (e.g., the third electronic device300ofFIG.3) is open. Alternatively, the first electronic device210may determine whether the cover of the third electronic device300that has been closed gets open. A method for determining, by the first electronic device210, whether the cover of the third electronic device300is open may be the same as the method in the embodiments described with reference toFIGS.2and3. The method of determining whether the cover of the third electronic device3000that has been closed is open may determine that the cover of the third electronic device300that has been closed is open when the first electronic device210or the second electronic device220senses a change in magnetic force through the first sensor211and/or the second sensor221.

If it is determined that the cover of the third electronic device300is open, the first electronic device210and/or the second electronic device220may change the first electronic device210and/or the second electronic device220to a power-on state or a wake-up mode, and may establish the first communication link between the first electronic device210and the second electronic device220if the first electronic device210and the second electronic device220are in a coupled state. If the first electronic device210and/or the second electronic device220is already in the power-on state or already in the wake-up mode, the operation of powering on the first electronic device210and/or the second electronic device220or changing to the wakeup mode may be omitted. Further, if the first electronic device210and the second electronic device220are not in the coupled state, the operation of establishing the communication link may be omitted.

If it is determined that the cover of the third electronic device300is open, in operation902, the first electronic device210may determine whether the first electronic device210and the second electronic device220are connected to the third electronic device300.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the reference to connecting the first electronic device210and the third electronic device300to each other may mean that the first electronic device210is inserted into the socket of the third electronic device300(e.g., the first socket321ofFIG.3). According to another embodiment of the disclosure, the reference to connecting the first electronic device210and the third electronic device300to each other may mean that the charging terminal of the first electronic device210(e.g., the first charging terminal212ofFIG.2) is electrically connected to the charging terminal of the third electronic device300(e.g., the third charging terminal322ofFIG.3). The method of determining whether the first electronic device210and the third electronic device300are connected to each other may be the same as the method in the embodiments described with reference toFIGS.2and3. The first electronic device210may determine that it is connected to the third electronic device300if the voltage of the first charging terminal212is checked and recognized as high.

The first electronic device210may receive, from the second electronic device220, information on whether the second electronic device220is connected to the third electronic device300. If the first electronic device210and the second electronic device220are connected through the first communication link, the first electronic device210may receive information on whether the second electronic device220is connected to the third electronic device300from the second electronic device220through the first communication link.

If the first electronic device210and the second electronic device220are not connected through the first communication link, the third electronic device300may transmit, to the first electronic device210, information on whether the second electronic device220is connected to the third electronic device300, which has been received from the second electronic device220. The communication between the third electronic device300and the first electronic device210and the communication between the third electronic device300and the second electronic device220may be power line communication (PLC) through charging terminals.

A method for determining, by the second electronic device220, whether the second electronic device220and the third electronic device300are connected may be the same as the method for the first electronic device210described above.

If it is determined that the first electronic device210and the second electronic device220are connected to the third electronic device300, then in operation903, the first electronic device210may determine whether the user's touch to the first touch pad (e.g., the touch pad170ofFIG.1) of the first electronic device210and the second touch pad of the second electronic device220has been performed for the first time period or longer. The first electronic device210may receive, from the second electronic device220, wirelessly through the first communication link or by wire through the third electronic device300, information on whether the user's touch to the second touch pad of the second electronic device220has been performed for the first time period or longer. The first time period may be an arbitrary time period, and may be a time period in seconds. For example, the first time period may be 10 seconds or less, and may be 3 seconds according to an embodiment.

FIG.9illustrates that the first electronic device210determines whether the user's touch to the first touch pad and the second touch pad has been performed for the first time period or longer; however, the disclosure is not limited thereto, and the first electronic device210may determine whether the user's touch to at least one of the first touch pad and the second touch pad has been performed for the first time period or longer.

If it is determined that the user's touch to the first touch pad of the first electronic device210and the second touch pad of the second electronic device220has been performed for the first time period or longer, then in operation904, the first electronic device210may determine whether the first electronic device210and the second electronic device220are devices coupled to each other.

The first electronic device210may determine whether they are coupled devices by checking a communication link connected to the second electronic device220or checking a Bluetooth address of the second electronic device220. For example, when the coupled device is checked from the second electronic device220through the first communication link established with the second electronic device220, the first electronic device210may determine that the first electronic device210and the second electronic device220are coupled devices.

Alternatively, if a Bluetooth address is stored in the first electronic device210as a coupled device when the first electronic device210is manufactured, the first electronic device210may determine that the first electronic device210and the second electronic device220are coupled devices by comparing the stored Bluetooth address with the address of the second electronic device220. The comparison of the Bluetooth address of the first electronic device210may be performed through the first communication link or by wire through the third electronic device300.

When it is determined that the first electronic device210and the second electronic device220are coupled devices, in operation905, the first electronic device210may enter the pairing mode. As the first electronic device210enters the pairing mode, the mode may be changed from the inquiry scan disable mode to the inquiry scan enable mode.

In operation906, the first electronic device210may transmit, to the third electronic device300, the entry into the pairing mode. The first electronic device210may transmit the entry into the pairing mode to the third electronic device300through wired communication through the charging terminal. The third electronic device300may receive the entry into the pairing mode, and may notify the user of the entry into the pairing mode through a user interface device (e.g., an LED device (not shown)) included in the third electronic device300(e.g., LED device on).

In operation907, the first electronic device210may transmit, to the third electronic device300, a reason for terminating the pairing mode when the reason occurs. As described above, the communication between the first electronic device210and the third electronic device300may be performed through wired communication through charging terminals. According to an embodiment, the reason for terminating the pairing mode may include both a case in which pairing is completed and a case in which a predetermined time has elapsed although pairing is not completed. The third electronic device300may receive the termination of the pairing mode and may notify the user of the termination of the pairing mode through a user interface device (e.g., the LED device (not shown)) (e.g., the LED device off).

If the first electronic device210determines that the first electronic device210and the second electronic device220are not coupled devices in operation904, then in operation908, the first electronic device210may determine whether the user's touch to the first touch pad of the first electronic device210and the second touch pad of the second electronic device220has been performed for a second time period or longer. The second time period may be any time period greater than the first time period, and may be a time period in seconds. For example, the second time period may be 10 seconds or less, and may be 7 seconds according to an embodiment.

FIG.9illustrates that the first electronic device210determines whether the user's touch to the first touch pad and the second touch pad has been performed for the second time period or longer; however, the disclosure is not limited thereto, and the first electronic device210may determine whether the user's touch to at least one of the first touch pad and the second touch pad has been performed for the second time period or longer.

If it is determined that the user's touch to the first touch pad of the first electronic device210and the second touch pad of the second electronic device220has been performed for the second time period or longer, then in operation909, the first electronic device210may enter a coupling mode with the second electronic device220.

In operation910, the first electronic device210may transmit, to the third electronic device300, the entry into the coupling mode. As described above, the communication between the first electronic device210and the third electronic device300may be performed through wired communication through charging terminals. The third electronic device300may receive the entry into the coupling mode and notify the user of the entry into the coupling mode through the user interface device (e.g., an LED device (not shown)).

When coupling is completed in operation911, the first electronic device210may end the process or may proceed to operation905to enter the pairing mode.

In operation902ofFIG.9, a case in which both the first electronic device210and the second electronic device220are connected to the third electronic device300is illustrated; however, if there is only one of the first electronic device210and the second electronic device220, in a state where only one of the first electronic device210or the second electronic device220is mounted on the third electronic device300, as the coupled counterpart electronic device is not checked, a decision as to whether to enter the pairing mode alone may be made.

For example, after checking whether the first electronic device210is connected to the third electronic device300, the first electronic device210may determine whether a touch to the first touch pad of the first electronic device210has been input for the first time period or longer. If the touch to the first touch pad has been input for the first time period or longer, the first electronic device210may check whether the second electronic device220, which is a coupled electronic device, is connected to the first electronic device210. If it is determined that the second electronic device220is not connected to the first electronic device210, the first electronic device210may check whether there is another electronic device mounted on the third electronic device300from the third electronic device300. If it is determined that another electronic device other than the first electronic device210is not mounted on the third electronic device300, the first electronic device210may enter the pairing mode alone.

Further, the operation of determining, by the first electronic device210, in operation903ofFIG.9, whether the user's touch to the first touch pad and the second touch pad has been performed for the first time period or longer may be performed according to various embodiments.

After receiving from the second electronic device220, the fact that the touch input to the second touch pad has occurred for the first time period or longer, the first electronic device210may determine whether the touch to the first touch pad of the first electronic device210has been performed for the first time period or longer.

Alternatively, the first electronic device210may first check the first communication link connected to the second electronic device220if it is determined that the touch to the first touch pad has been performed for the first time period, and then may obtain information about the touch input to the second touch pad from the second electronic device220through the first communication link.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first electronic device210may check input information on the second touch pad from the second electronic device220if it is determined that the touch to the first touch pad has been performed for the first time period or longer, and may determine whether the touch to the first touch pad is sensed during a third time period again if the touch input to the second touch pad has not been performed for the first time period or longer. If the touch to the first touch pad is sensed for the third time period, the first electronic device210may check input information on the second touch pad again.

The electronic device according to various embodiments disclosed herein may be one of various types of electronic devices. The electronic devices may include, for example, a portable communication device (e.g., a smailphone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a home appliance. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic devices are not limited to those described above.

According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include a single entity or multiple entities. According to various embodiments, one or more of the above-described components may be omitted, or one or more other components may be added.