PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-7650007-B2
Application Number: US-21251405-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Lanyard for handheld electronic device

Abstract:
A lanyard for carrying or wearing portable electronic devices is disclosed. The lanyard includes a neck cord having data carrying capabilities. The lanyard also includes a harness that physically holds and operatively couples the portable electronic device to the neck cord. When a portable electronic device is coupled to the harness, the portable electronic device can be worn around a neck and communicate with an input and/or output (I/O) device (e.g., earphones) operatively coupled to the data carrying cord. That is, the I/O device can send data through the neck cord to the portable electronic device and/or receive data being carried by the neck cord from the portable electronic device. The lanyard facilitates greater ease in wearing portable electronic devices and enables better approaches for managing wires between portable electronic devices and peripheral I/O devices.

Claims:
1. A lanyard for an electronic device, comprising:
 an electronic device holder that physically and operatively mates with a handheld electronic device, one or more signals being transferred between the electronic device holder and the handheld electronic device when coupled, wherein, when coupled, the electronic device holder supports the handheld electronic device from above such that the handheld electronic device hangs from the electronic device holder; 
 a cord attached to the electronic device holder, and forming a loop for placement around a user&#39;s neck, the cord carrying one or more signals between the electronic device holder and a peripheral I/O device operatively coupled to the cord; and 
 a cable having a first end that emanates from the cord and a second end that connects to an I/O device, wherein the cable emanates from a node of the cord and wherein the cable is hard wired to the cord at the node. 
 
     
     
       2. A lanyard for an electronic device, comprising:
 an electronic device holder that physically and operatively mates with a handheld electronic device, one or more signals being transferred between the electronic device holder and the handheld electronic device when coupled, wherein, when coupled, the electronic device holder supports the handheld electronic device from above such that the handheld electronic device hangs from the electronic device holder; 
 a cord attached to the electronic device holder, and forming a loop for placement around a user&#39;s neck, the cord carrying one or more signals between the electronic device holder and a peripheral I/O device operatively coupled to the cord; and 
 a cable having a first end that emanates from the cord and a second end that connects to an I/O device, wherein the cable emanates from a node of the cord and wherein the position of the node is adjustable along the length of the cord. 
 
     
     
       3. The lanyard as recited in  claim 2  wherein the cable includes a connector that mates with a corresponding connector of the cord, the corresponding connector being located at the node. 
     
     
       4. A lanyard for an electronic device, comprising:
 a connector unit that physically mates with and that mechanically and electrically couples to a handheld electronic device, the connector unit including a body and at least an audio connector attached to the body, the audio connector interfacing with a corresponding audio connector of the handheld electronic device when the handheld electronic device and connector unit are mated together; 
 a pair of cords that form a loop for placement on a person&#39;s neck, each of the cords including one or more electrical wires and an outer sheath disposed around the one or more electrical wires, the outer sheath covering a proximal portion of the one or more electrical wires, the pair of cords comprising,
 a first cord fixed to and emanating from a first side of the connector unit, a proximal end of the outer sheath of the first cord being attached to the body of the connector unit and a proximal end of the one or more electrical wires of the first cord being connected to the audio connector of the connector unit, a distal end of the one or more electrical wires of the first cord being connected to a first earphone, a distal end of the outer sheath of the first cord extending to a point between the proximal and distal ends of the one or more electrical wires of the first cord; 
 a second cord fixed to and emanating from a second side of the connector unit, a proximal end of the outer sheath of the second cord being attached to the body of the connector unit and a proximal end of the one or more electrical wires of the second cord being connected to the audio connector of the connector unit, a distal end of the one or more electrical wires of the second cord being connected to a second earphone, a distal end of the outer sheath of the second cord extending to a point between the proximal and distal ends of the one or more electrical wires of the second cord; 
 
 a first clasp fixed to the second cord at the distal end of the outer sheath of the second cord; 
 a second clasp fixed to the first cord at the distal end of the outer sheath of the first cord; 
 wherein the first clasp slidably receives the first cord between the proximal end of the first cord and the second clasp, and the second clasp slidably receives the second cord between the proximal end of the second cord and the first clasp, the clasps sliding along their respective cords in order to adjust the size of the loop formed by the first and second cords, the clasps providing a retaining force on their respective cords in order to hold the position of the cords when a desired size is found. 
 
     
     
       5. The lanyard as recited in  claim 4  wherein the outer sheath is a woven fiber. 
     
     
       6. The lanyard as recited in  claim 4  wherein the inner electrical wires include an inner conductive wire and an outer insulator. 
     
     
       7. The lanyard as recited in  claim 6  wherein the connector unit includes an audio jack and a mechanical retention feature, the audio jack being for insertion into an audio plug of the electronic device, the mechanical retention feature cooperating with a mechanical retention feature located on the electronic device to secure the connector unit to the electronic device, an inner conductive wire of the first cord being electrically connected to a first contact of the audio jack, an inner conductive wire of the second cord being electrically connected to a second contact of the audio jack. 
     
     
       8. The lanyard as recited in  claim 7  wherein the mechanical retention feature is located on a dummy data connector of the connector unit. 
     
     
       9. The lanyard as recited in  claim 7  wherein the mechanical retention feature is located on a data connector of the connector unit. 
     
     
       10. The lanyard as recited in  claim 4  wherein the first clasp includes a through-hole for slidably receiving the second cord between the connector unit and the second clasp, and wherein the second clasp includes a through hole for slidably receiving the first cord between the connector unit and the first clasp. 
     
     
       11. The lanyard as recited in  claim 4  wherein the outer sheath covers the inner wire between the connector unit and the respective clasp, and wherein the electric wire extends exposed from the respective clasp to the respective earphone. 
     
     
       12. The lanyard as recited in  claim 4  wherein the connector unit includes an input mechanism for controlling features of the electronic device. 
     
     
       13. A lanyard for an electronic device, comprising:
 an electronic device holder that physically and operatively mates with a handheld electronic device, one or more signals being transferred between the electronic device holder and the handheld electronic device when coupled, wherein, when coupled, the electronic device holder supports the handheld electronic device from above such that the handheld electronic device hangs from the electronic device holder, wherein the electronic device holder comprises an output mechanism; and 
 a cord attached to the electronic device holder, and forming a loop for placement around a user&#39;s neck, the cord carrying one or more signals between the electronic device holder and a peripheral I/O device operatively coupled to the cord. 
 
     
     
       14. The lanyard as recited in  claim 13  wherein the electronic device holder includes a connector that operatively interfaces with a corresponding connector of the handheld electronic device when the handheld electronic device is coupled to the electronic device holder, and wherein the cord is operatively coupled to the connector. 
     
     
       15. The lanyard as recited in  claim 14  wherein the connector is an audio jack, the corresponding connector is an audio port and wherein the cord includes a conductive wire electrically attached to the audio jack. 
     
     
       16. The lanyard as recited in  claim 14 , wherein the connector provides a biasing force against walls of receptacle in a corresponding connector of the electronic device when the electronic device holder and the handheld electronic device are coupled. 
     
     
       17. The lanyard as recited in  claim 13  wherein the cord is adjustable to different loop sizes. 
     
     
       18. The lanyard as recited in  claim 13  wherein the electronic device holder includes a mechanical holding feature that secures and releases the electronic device to and from the electronic device holder. 
     
     
       19. The lanyard as recited in  claim 13  further including a cable having a first end that emanates from the cord and a second end that connects to an I/O device. 
     
     
       20. The lanyard as recited in  claim 19  wherein the I/O device is an earphone. 
     
     
       21. The lanyard as recited in  claim 19  wherein the cable is an integral portion of the cord. 
     
     
       22. The lanyard as recited in  claim 19  wherein the cable emanates from a node of the cord. 
     
     
       23. The lanyard as recited in  claim 13 , wherein the electronic device holder comprises a user interface for controlling the handheld electronic device. 
     
     
       24. The lanyard as recited in  claim 23 , wherein the user interface comprises a touch sensing device. 
     
     
       25. The lanyard as recited in  claim 13 , wherein the output mechanism comprises a display. 
     
     
       26. The lanyard as recited in  claim 13 , wherein the electronic device holder comprises a sensor. 
     
     
       27. A lanyard for an electronic device, comprising:
 an electronic device holder that physically and operatively mates with a handheld electronic device, one or more signals being transferred between the electronic device holder and the handheld electronic device when coupled, wherein, when coupled, the electronic device holder supports the handheld electronic device from above such that the handheld electronic device hangs from the electronic device holder, wherein the electronic device holder comprises a functional component of a device different from the handheld electronic device; and 
 a cord attached to the electronic device holder, and forming a loop for placement around a user&#39;s neck, the cord carrying one or more signals between the electronic device holder and a peripheral I/O device operatively coupled to the cord. 
 
     
     
       28. The lanyard as recited in  claim 27 , wherein the functional component includes software. 
     
     
       29. The lanyard as recited in  claim 27 , wherein the electronic device holder extends functionality of the electronic device. 
     
     
       30. The lanyard as recited in  claim 27 , wherein the electronic device holder comprises a user interface for controlling the handheld electronic device. 
     
     
       31. A lanyard for an electronic device, comprising:
 a flexible neck cord for forming a loop for placement around a user&#39;s neck; 
 an electronic device holder including a connector for anchoring an electronic device to the flexible neck cord, the connector including at least one electrical contact that comes into electrical engagement with a corresponding contact located on the electronic device when the electronic device is secured to the electronic device holder and wherein the connector contacts a single outer face of the electronic device when secured to the electronic device, wherein the electronic device holder extends functionality of the electronic device and comprises a user interface configured to control the electronic device, wherein the user interface comprises a touch sensing device; and 
 an electrical wire having a proximal end connected to the electrical contact, and a distal end that extends to a head piece worn on the user&#39;s head, the electrical wire emanating from the electronic device holder and running at least partially along the flexible neck cord. 
 
     
     
       32. The lanyard as recited in  claim 31  wherein the neck cord includes a first portion extending from a first side of the electronic device holder and a second portion extending from a second side of the electronic device holder. 
     
     
       33. The lanyard as recited in  claim 32  wherein a first electric wire runs along the first portion of the neck cord, and a second electric wire runs along the second portion of the neck cord. 
     
     
       34. The lanyard as recited in  claim 33  wherein a proximal segment of the first portion includes a sheath that surrounds the first electric wire, and wherein a proximal segment of the second portion includes a sheath that surrounds the second electric wire. 
     
     
       35. The lanyard as recited in  claim 32  wherein the first and second portions of the neck cord are coupled together to form a loop. 
     
     
       36. The lanyard as recited in  claim 35  wherein at least one clasp is provided to adjustably secure the first and second portions together. 
     
     
       37. The lanyard as recited in  claim 31 , wherein the electronic device hangs from the electronic device holder when the electronic device is secured to the electronic device holder. 
     
     
       38. The lanyard as recited in  claim 31 , wherein the connector provides a biasing force against walls of receptacle in a corresponding connector of the electronic device when the connector is secured to the electronic device. 
     
     
       39. The lanyard as recited in  claim 31 , wherein the electronic device holder comprises software. 
     
     
       40. A lanyard for an electronic device, comprising:
 a flexible neck cord for forming a loop for placement around a user&#39;s neck; 
 an electronic device holder including a connector for anchoring an electronic device to the flexible neck cord, the connector including at least one electrical contact that comes into electrical engagement with a corresponding contact located on the electronic device when the electronic device is secured to the electronic device holder and wherein the connector contacts a single outer face of the electronic device when secured to the electronic device, wherein the electronic device holder extends functionality of the electronic device, wherein the electronic device holder comprises an output mechanism; and 
 an electrical wire having a proximal end connected to the electrical contact, and a distal end that extends to a head piece worn on the user&#39;s head, the electrical wire emanating from the electronic device holder and running at least partially along the flexible neck cord. 
 
     
     
       41. The lanyard as recited in  claim 40 , wherein the electronic device holder comprises a user interface configured to control the electronic device. 
     
     
       42. The lanyard as recited in  claim 40 , wherein the output mechanism comprises a display. 
     
     
       43. The lanyard as recited in  claim 40 , wherein the electronic device holder comprises a wireless interface for allowing the electronic device to remotely communicate with another device. 
     
     
       44. The lanyard as recited in  claim 40 , wherein the output mechanism comprises a color indicator. 
     
     
       45. A lanyard for an electronic device, comprising:
 a flexible neck cord for forming a loop for placement around a user&#39;s neck; 
 an electronic device holder including a connector for anchoring an electronic device to the flexible neck cord, the connector including at least one electrical contact that comes into electrical engagement with a corresponding contact located on the electronic device when the electronic device is secured to the electronic device holder and wherein the connector contacts a single outer face of the electronic device when secured to the electronic device, wherein the electronic device holder extends functionality of the electronic device, wherein the electronic device holder comprises a sensor; and 
 an electrical wire having a proximal end connected to the electrical contact, and a distal end that extends to a head piece worn on the user&#39;s head, the electrical wire emanating from the electronic device holder and running at least partially along the flexible neck cord. 
 
     
     
       46. The lanyard as recited in  claim 45 , wherein the electronic device holder comprises a user interface for controlling the handheld electronic device. 
     
     
       47. The lanyard as recited in  claim 46 , wherein the user interface comprises a touch sensing device.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is related to the following applications, all of which are herein incorporated by reference: 
     U.S. Design patent application No. 29/237,691, titled “LANYARD”; 
     U.S. Design patent application No. 29/220,015, titled “ELECTRONIC DEVICE HOLDER”; and 
     U.S. Design patent application No. 29/257,103, titled “CLASP”. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates generally to lanyards for handheld electronic devices. More particularly, the present invention relates to a lanyards that incorporate electronic circuitry. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     A lanyard is a rope or cord often worn around the neck or wrist to carry something. For example, lanyards may refer to straps or cords that are attached to an article such as a firearm, whistle, or placard and worn around the neck or shoulder to prevent loss of the article. In some cases, the lanyard may include a clip for securing the article to the cord. Recent examples of lanyards are cords that include clips that hold a badge associated with a tradeshow, or cords that include clips that hold electronic identification cards for allowing entry into rooms. Lanyards have also been used to attach an ignition safety switch of a water craft such as a jetski to the operators wrist. Similarly, in exercise equipment, a lanyard may be used to attach a stop or deceleration device of a treadmill to the operator. 
     A lanyard for handheld electronic devices is desired. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The invention relates, in one embodiment, to an apparatus for use with a portable electronic device. The apparatus includes a neck cord having at least one data carrying element. The at least one data carrying element has a first end and a second end. The apparatus also includes an electrical connector physically coupled to the neck cord and electrically coupled to the first end of the at least one data carrying element. The apparatus further includes at least one output device electrically connected to the second end of the at least one data carrying element. 
     The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a wearable electronic apparatus. The apparatus includes a neck cord having at least one data carrying element. The at least one data carrying element has a first end and a second end. The apparatus also includes a portable electronic device physically supported by the neck cord and electrically coupled to the first end of the at least one data carrying element. The apparatus further includes at least one output device electrically connected to the second end of the at least one data carrying element. 
     The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a kit for facilitating wearing an electronic device around one&#39;s neck. The kit includes a portable electronic device capable of being wearable or handheld. The kit also includes an apparatus capable of supporting the portable electronic device around the user&#39;s neck. The apparatus includes at least a neck cord having at least one data carrying element. The at least one data carrying element has a first end and a second end. The apparatus also includes at least an electrical connector physically coupled to the neck cord and electrically coupled to the first end of the at least one data carrying element. The apparatus further includes at least one output device electrically connected to the second end of the at least one data carrying element. 
     The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a lanyard for an electronic device. The lanyard includes an electronic device holder that physically and operatively mates with a handheld electronic device. One or more signals is transferred between the electronic device holder and the handheld electronic device when mated. The lanyard also includes a cord attached to the electronic device holder, and forming a loop for placement around a user&#39;s neck. The cord carries one or more signals between the electronic device holder and a peripheral I/O device operatively coupled to the cord. 
     The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a lanyard for an electronic device. The lanyard includes a flexible neck cord forming a loop for placement around a user&#39;s neck. The lanyard also includes an electronic device holder supported by the flexible neck cord such that the electronic device holder hangs from the flexible cord. The electronic device holder includes a connector for anchoring an electronic device to the flexible neck cord. The connector includes at least one electrical contact that comes into electrical engagement with a corresponding contact located on the electronic device when the electronic device is secured to the electronic device holder. The lanyard further includes an electrical wire having a proximal end connected to the electrical contact, and a distal end that extends to a head piece worn on the user&#39;s head. The electrical wire emanates from the electronic device holder and runs at least partially along the flexible neck cord. 
     The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a lanyard for an electronic device. The lanyard includes a connector unit that mechanically and electrically couples to a handheld electronic device. The connector unit includes at least an audio connector that interfaces with a corresponding audio connector of the handheld electronic device when the handheld electronic device and connector unit are coupled together. The lanyard also includes a pair of cords that form a loop for placement on a person&#39;s neck. A first cord is fixed to and emanates from a first side of the connector unit. A proximal end of the first cord is electrically connected to the audio connector of the connector unit, and a distal end is electrically connected to a first earphone. A second cord is fixed to and emanates from a second side of the connector unit. A proximal end of the second cord is electrically connected to the audio connector of the connector unit, and a distal end is electrically connected to a second earphone. The lanyard further includes a clasping arrangement that includes a pair of clasps. A first clasp is fixed to the second cord between the proximal and distal ends of the second cord. A second clasp is fixed to the first cord between the proximal and distal ends of the first cord. The first clasp slides over the first cord between the proximal end of the first cord and the second clasp, and the second clasp slides over the second cord between the proximal end of the second cord and the first clasp. The clasps slide along their respective cords in order to adjust the size of the loop formed by the first and second cords. The clasps further provide a retaining force on their respective cords in order to hold the position of the cords when a desired size is found. 
     The invention relates, in another embodiment, to a lanyard. The lanyard includes a neck cord which is worn around the neck. The lanyard also includes a connector unit physically carried on the neck cord and configured to releasably engage a portable media player. The connector unit intimately and rigidly mates with the portable media player so that the portable media player is an extension of the connector unit when engaged thereto. Furthermore, the neck cord and connector unit are configured with data carrying capabilities so that signals can be passed from the portable media player to one or more output devices when the portable media player is engaged with the connector unit. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The invention may best be understood by reference to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a diagram of a lanyard, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2A  is a top perspective diagram of a lanyard, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2B  is a top perspective diagram of the lanyard of  FIG. 2A  with a handheld electronic device mounted thereon, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective diagram of a connector unit, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective diagram of a clasp system, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5  is a simplified top view of a lanyard, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIGS. 6A and 6B  are simplified block diagram of a media player in various modes, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 7  is a method of operating a portable electronic device with music playing capabilities, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     In recent years portable electronic devices have become small, light and powerful. One factor contributing to this phenomenon is in the manufacturer&#39;s ability to fabricate various components of these devices in smaller and smaller sizes while in most cases increasing the power and or operating speed of such components. Because of their decreased size and weight, the portable electronic devices are easily transportable and thus they may be carried by people when performing physical activities such as walking, running, cycling, stair climbing, etc. In some cases, the devices are held in the user&#39;s hand, while in other cases the devices are worn by the user thus freeing their hands. Devices that fall under this category include, for example, cell phones, PDAs, and media players. 
     The invention pertains to improved approaches for carrying or wearing portable electronic devices. One aspect of the invention relates to making the portable electronic devices easier to wear or strap to the body of the user. For example, by utilizing a neck cord the portable electronic device can be supported by the user&#39;s neck. As a result, the device is easy to transport and manipulate when on the go. Another aspect of the invention relates to improved approaches for managing wires or cables emanating from the portable electronic device. As should be appreciated, cables such as those used to output data (e.g., earphones), can get in the way and sometimes become tangled up in the users hands, arms or legs during activity. 
     In one embodiment, an apparatus for facilitating carrying or wearing a portable electronic device makes use of a neck cord having data carrying capabilities. The apparatus can also include an input or output device that can be electrically connected to receive the data being carried by the neck cord. The apparatus can also include an electrical connector to physically and electrically couple the portable electronic device to the neck cord. 
     In another embodiment, an apparatus for facilitating carrying or wearing a handheld electronic device can be referred to as a lanyard. A lanyard, in this embodiment, includes a neck cord (or necklace or neck chain) which is worn around the neck and an electronic device holder (e.g., anchoring mechanism) disposed on the neck cord for removably securing a handheld electronic device to the neck cord. The neck cord and electronic device holder include data carrying capabilities so that signals can be passed from the handheld electronic device to another electrical device via the neck cord. By way of example, the electrical device may be one or more output devices such as a pair of earphones that operatively couple to the neck cord. 
     A handheld electronic device may, for example, correspond to a media player. One example of a media player is a music player, such as a digital music player (e.g., MP3 player). Examples of music players are the iPod series of music players manufactured by Apple Computer of Cupertino, Calif. 
     Embodiments of the invention are discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 1-6 . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes as the invention extends beyond these limited embodiments. 
       FIG. 1  is a diagram of a lanyard  10 , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The lanyard  10  includes a neck cord  12 , an electronic device holder  14  disposed on the neck cord  12 , and one or more cables  16  emanating from the neck cord  12 . The cord  10  is formed as a loop for placement around a person&#39;s neck. The cord  12  may have a fixed length or it may be adjustable to accommodate different user preferences or usages. 
     The electronic device holder  14  is configured to releasably engage a handheld electronic device  18  such as a music player. That is, the electronic device holder  14  is capable of attaching to the handheld electronic device  18  so that the handheld electronic device  18  can be carried by the cord  12  and supported by the neck when the cord  12  is placed around the neck. When attached, the electronic device holder  14  intimately and rigidly mates with the handheld electronic device  18 , i.e., makes a one to one connection such that the handheld electronic device  18  is an extension of the electronic device holder  14 . A direct physical connection between the electronic device holder and handheld electronic device helps reduce cable clutter that would otherwise be created with wire support harnesses spanning between the two. 
     The electronic device holder  14  can, for example, include a mechanical holding feature  15  that utilizes such elements as buttons, latches, snaps, hooks, tabs, flanges, lips, catches, detents and/or friction couplings for quickly and conveniently securing and releasing the handheld electronic device  18  to the electronic device holder  14 . 
     The cord  12  and electronic device holder  14  are both configured to carry signals to or from the handheld electronic device  18 . For example, the electronic device holder  14  may include a connector  20 A such as an audio jack, video jack and/or a data connector that couples with corresponding connector  20 B on the handheld electronic device  18  (or vice versa). The connectors  20  may be combined with the mechanical holding features  15  and/or they may be separate components. In either case, the signal carrying connection is made when the handheld electronic device is attached to the electronic device holder  14 . A direct physical connection such as this helps reduce cable clutter that would otherwise be created with cables spanning between the two. 
     Furthermore, the cord  12  may include a signal carrying conduit such as one or more wires or cables that connect to the connector  20  of the electronic device holder  14  and that transport or carry signals between the connector  20  and the one or more cables  16  emanating from the cord  12 . By routing signals through the cord  12 , dangling cords can be substantially eliminated. The signal carrying conduit may for example be one or more conductive wires and/or optical fibers. 
     In one embodiment, the neck cord  12  converges within the electronic device holder  14  such that the electronic device holder  14  hangs from the neck cord  12 . The neck cord  12  may be segmented or one continuous piece that is placed inside opposing holes of the electronic device holder  14 . Inside the electronic device, the neck cord  12  may be structurally attached to the electronic device holder  14 , and the signal carrying conduits may be routed from the cord  12  to the appropriate contacts points of the connector  20 . 
     The cables  16  in turn are configured to carry signals between the cord  12  and one or more electrical components  21  such as earphones, microphones, video displays, etc that are disposed at the end of the cables  16 . The cables  16  form a short extension from the neck cord to the user&#39;s head thereby reducing the amount of cabling that is needed. In one implementation, the cables  16  are integral with the cord  12 . For example, the cables  16  may be an extension of the signal carrying wires or cables contained within the neck cord  12 . In another implementation, the cables  16  interface with the wires or cable of the cord  12  through some sort of connection interface or node  17  including both hard wired interfaces (e.g., solder) and pluggable interfaces (e.g., port/jack). In some cases, the position of the nodes  17  may be slidably adjustable along the length of the cord  12 . By adjusting the position of the nodes, cable clutter may be reduced. 
     In one particular embodiment, the connector  20  of the electronic device holder  14  includes at least an audio jack for insertion into an audio plug of the handheld electronic device  18 , and the cord  12  includes an electrical wire for carrying audio signals from the handheld electronic device  18  to the cables  16 . Each of the cables  16  in turn includes a wire for carrying the audio signals from the cord  12  to an audio output device such as an earphone. The cord  12  may, for example, include one or more conductive wires that are distributed at least partially within the cord  12 . These wires can then extend outside of the cord  12  and become the cables  16  themselves or be within the cables  16 . Instead of conductive wires, the cord and cables may alternatively include optical fibers or other data transmitting medium. 
     It should be noted that one advantage of the lanyard  10  of  FIG. 1  is that it does not include a wire support harness or electrical cabling between it and the handheld electronic device. The only connection points are between the cord  12  and the electronic device holder  14  and the electronic device holder  14  and the handheld electronic device  18 . No other support elements are used. The amount of dangling lines is therefore minimized and a more rigid structure is created. It should be appreciated, however, that this is not a limitation and that is some cases it may be desirable to use a separate wire support harness and/or electrical cabling. 
       FIGS. 2A ,  2 B,  3  and  4  are diagrams of a lanyard  100 , in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. The lanyard  100  may for example correspond to the lanyard  10  shown in  FIG. 1 . The lanyard  100  includes a connector unit  102  that mechanically and electrically couples to a handheld electronic device  104 . The handheld electronic device  104  may, for example, correspond to a media player, such as an iPod® media player manufactured by Apple Computer of Cupertino, Calif. Media players are often used to play music for the benefit of its user. 
     The connector unit  102  includes an audio connector  106  that interfaces with a corresponding audio connector of the handheld electronic device  104  when the handheld electronic device  104  and connector unit  102  are coupled together. As an example, the audio connector  106  can be an audio jack and the corresponding audio connector may be an audio port (or vice versa). In one example, the audio connector  106  is a jack with a proximal end embedded in a plastic body of the connector unit  102 . In this example, the audio jack protrudes distally from a top or bottom side of the handheld electronic device  104 , and the bottom side of the handheld electronic device  104  includes a coinciding audio port for interfacing with the audio jack. As such, the handheld electronic device  104  hangs upside down when connected to the lanyard  100 . This allows a user to easily manipulate the handheld electronic device when worn around their neck. 
     The connector unit  102  serves to couple the handheld electronic device  104  to a pair of cords  110 A and  110 B, thereby allowing the lanyard  100  to support the handheld electronic device  104 .  FIG. 2   b  illustrates the handheld electronic device  104  being supported by the lanyard  100 . The connector unit  102  can use a variety of techniques to mechanically couple the handheld electronic device  104  to the connector unit  102 . For example, friction, detents, latches and/or catches can be utilized to secure the handheld electronic device  104  to the connector unit  102 . The mechanical coupling is secure yet not permanent so that the user can attach the handheld electronic device  104  to the connector unit  102  and have it remain attached while being worn or carried. However, the user can also conveniently decouple the handheld electronic device  104  from the connector unit  102 . 
     In one embodiment, the connector unit  102  includes a mechanical retention feature  108  that engages a corresponding mechanical retention feature of the handheld electronic device  104  when the handheld electronic device  104  and connector unit  102  are coupled together. In some cases, the mechanical retention feature is positioned on a connector  109  that mates with a corresponding connector on the handheld electronic device  104 . The connector  109  may be an electrical connector with one or more contacts or a dummy connector with a connector body but no contacts (as shown). 
     When secured, the handheld electronic device  104  is held and supported (at least in part) by the connector unit  102 . The mechanical retention feature may for example be one or more flexures that provide a biasing force against the walls of the connector of the handheld electronic device. In one implementation, the connector unit  102  includes flexures on each side of the connector  109 . The flexures may include detents designed to interact with receptacles located within the connector of the handheld device thereby further securing the connector unit to the handheld device (e.g., force detent coupling). The detent springs into the receptacles thereby securing the two devices together. In some cases, the coupling may be angled to further secure the connection. An example of a similar coupling may be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/799,403, which is herein incorporated by reference. 
     One advantage of such a coupling is that the connection may be made without actuating latches or buttons. For example, the connector may be pushed into and pulled out of the corresponding connector without actuating any mechanism. All that needs to be done is overcome the holding force of the detent flexure. 
     Although latches and buttons are not used in the illustrated implementation, it should be appreciated that this is not a limitation and that latches and buttons may be used. For example, a button may be used to engage and release a holding detent rather than utilizing a spring loaded flexure. 
     In some cases, the audio connector  106  may also provide or assist in the providing of the mechanical coupling. In one implementation, both the audio connector  106  and the connector  109  contribute to providing a mechanical retention feature. 
     As shown, the pair of flexible cords  110 A and  110 B form a loop for placement around a user&#39;s neck. The first cord  110 A is fixed to and emanates from a first side of the connector unit  102 , and a second cord  110 B is fixed to and emanates from a second side of the connector unit  102 . Furthermore, the first and second cords  110 A and  110 B are coupled together via an adjustable clasping system  120 . The connector unit  102  therefore hangs from the cords  110 . 
     Each of the cords  110 A and  110 B includes an inner wire conduit  112  and an outer sheath  114  that surrounds the inner wire conduit  112  and that extends longitudinally over a proximal portion of the inner wire conduit  112  disposed therein. As shown, cord  110 A includes inner wire conduit  112 A and outer sheath  114 A that covers at least a longitudinal portion of the inner wire conduit  112 A. Furthermore, cord  110 B includes inner wire conduit  112 B and outer sheath  114 B that covers at least a longitudinal portion of the inner wire conduit  112 B. 
     The inner wire conduits  112 A and  112 B allow audio data in the form of electrical signals to be distributed through the cords  110 A and  110 B from the handheld electronic device  104  to the earphones  116 . The inner wire conduits  112 A and  112 B may, for example, be one or more conductive wires surrounded by a flexible insulation material such as plastic. The proximal end of the inner wire conduits  112 A and  112 B are operatively coupled to the audio jack  106 . At least one conductive wire of the inner wire conduit  112 A of the first cord  110 A is connected to a first contact of the audio jack  106 , and at least one conductive wire of the inner wire conduit  112 B of the second cord  110 B is connected to a second contact of the audio jack  106  (e.g., left and right channels). An additional wire in each of the wire conduits  112  may be used for ground. In addition, the distal end of the inner wires  112  are operatively coupled to individual earphones  116 , such as earbuds and headsets. The connections may be made similarly to the audio jack. 
     The flexible outer sheathes  114 A and  114 B may serve as a soft flexible outer layer that provides a better feel to the user&#39;s neck. The flexible outer sheaths  114 A and  114 B may also protect the inner wire conduits and provide strength to the cords  110 A and  110 B. That is, they may serve to better support weight of the handheld electronic device  104  when it is hanging from the cords  110 A and  110 B, i.e., strengthens the cords  110 A and  110 B and reduces stresses at the connection points between the inner wires  112 A and  112 B and the audio jack  106 . The outer sheathes  114 A and  114 B may, for example, be formed from a woven material, such as woven cotton, nylon and polyester. Alternatively, the outer sheath  114  may be formed from a plastic or foam like material. 
     The proximal end of the cords  110 A and  110 B can be attached to the connector unit  102  using a variety of techniques. In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in  FIG. 3 , the proximal end of the cord  110 A is inserted into a hole  111 A on the first side of the connector unit  102  such that the proximal end is disposed inside the connector unit  102 . Inside the connector unit  102 , the inner wires  112 A are electrically attached to the audio connector  106 , and the outer sheath  114 A is anchored to a body of the connector unit  102 . For example, the conductor of the inner wire  112 A may be connected directly to the corresponding contact of the audio connector  106  using solder or other suitable technique, or indirectly through an electrical circuit (e.g., flex circuit, printed circuit board, connector), which is housed within the connector unit  102 . Furthermore, the outer sheath  114 A may be anchored to the body of the connector unit  102  using a variety of techniques including but not limited to fusing, molding, epoxies, glues, clamps, teeth, clasps, etc. The same techniques can be used to attach the proximal end of cord  110 B through a hole  111 B on the second side of the connector unit  102 . 
     The lanyard  100  also includes a pair of adjustable clasps  120 A and  120 B for adjusting the length of the cords  110 A and  110 B so as to effect the size of the loop. The size of the loop may be adjusted to fit around necks of various sizes and shapes, and at different depths. The first clasp  120 A is fixed to the first cord  110 A between the proximal and distal ends of the first cord  110 A. The second clasp  120 B is fixed to the second cord  110 B between the proximal and distal ends of the second cord  110 B. In most cases, the outer sheathes  114 A and  114 B extends longitudinally from the proximal end of the cords  110 A and  110 B to the respective clasps  120 A and  120 B, such that the inner wires  112 A and  112 B are exposed between the clasps  120 A and  120 B and the distal end of the cords  110 A and  110 B at the earphones  116 A and  116 B, i.e., does not include the sheathes  114 A and  114 B. The outer sheathes  114 A and  114 B may be fixed to the clasps  120 A and  120 B using a variety of techniques including but not limited to fusing, molding, epoxies, glues, clamps, teeth, clasps, etc. 
     In order to allow loop adjustments, the clasps  120 A and  120 B are configured to slidably receive the opposite cord  110 A and  110 B. The first clasp  120 A slidably receives the second cord  110 B between the proximal end of the second cord  110 B and the second clasp  120 B. The second clasp  120 B slidably receives the first cord  110 A between the proximal end of the first cord  110 A and the first clasp  120 A. The clasps  120 A and  120 B are configured to slide along their respective cords  110 A and  110 B in order to adjust the size (e.g., diameter) of the loop formed by the first and second cords  110 A and  110 B. The diameter of the loop becomes smaller when the clasps  120 A and  120 B are slid towards each other, and becomes larger when the clasps  120 A and  120 B are slid away from one another. The clasps  120 A and  120 B are configured to provide a retention force on their respective cords  110 A and  110 B in order to hold the position of the cords  110 A and  110 B when a desired diameter is found. The retention force may be provided using a variety of techniques including for example quick release spring clamps and friction force couplings. 
     In the illustrated embodiment of  FIG. 4 , the clasps  120 A and  120 B each include a through hole  122  that receive the opposite cord  110  therethrough, i.e., the through hole  122  allows the clasps  120  to slide along the cords  110 . Clasp  120 A includes through hole  122 A that receives cord  110 B and clasp  120 B includes through hole  122 B that receives cord  110 A. The through holes  122 A and  122 B are sized and dimensioned to allow sliding, but also to provide a friction force on the respective cords  110 A and  110 B when the sliding is stopped. For example, in one implementation, when the cords  110 A and  110 B are pulled parallel to the axis of the through holes  122 A and  122 B, the cords  110 A and  110 B can elongate and become thinner thereby allowing cords  110 A and  110 B to be slid through the clasps  120 A and  120 B, and when the cords  110 A and  110 B are released, they go back to their original shape, i.e., become thicker, thereby trapping cord  110 A in the through hole  122 B and cord  110 B in the through hole  122 A. Although described as being pulled together, it should be noted that the cords may also be selectively slid relative to the other. 
     The clasps  120  further include a passage that is juxtaposed relative to the through holes  122  and that consists of stepped holes  126  and  128 . The hole  126  receives the inner wire  112  therethrough and the hole  128  receives the entire cord  110  including the inner wire  112  and the outer sheath  114 , i.e., the outer sheath ends in the hole  128 . The sheath  114  may be attached to the clasp  120  using a variety of techniques including those mentioned previously with respect to the connector unit  102 . 
     In one embodiment, the clasps  120  include a safety feature that allows the cords to be disengaged from the clasps thereby eliminating the loop that surrounds the neck. As shown in  FIG. 4 , the safety feature is embodied as a slit  124  that is made in the clasp  120  along the through hole  122 . The slit  124  is sized and dimension to keep the cord  110  inside the through hole  122  under normal conditions, but when a large force is applied to the cord  110  allows the cord  110  to be pulled out of the through hole  122 . When pulled out of the through hole  122 , the cords  110  are no longer attached to one another and are freed such that a loop is no longer present. 
     A lanyard can also serve as a hub for operatively interfacing with the handheld electronic device. In fact, the connector unit  102  may be configured to extend the functionality of the handheld electronic device  104  coupled thereto or to provide a physical user interface that allows more convenient control of the handheld electronic device  104  when the user is wearing the handheld electronic device  104 . 
     The connector unit  102  may for example include input mechanisms such as buttons, dials, sliders, navigation pads, etc that allow a user to interact with the handheld electronic device  104  via the lanyard  100 . In the case of a music player, the connector unit may include button controls for volume, play/pause and playing the next or previous songs. As a result, the user does not need to use the user interface from the handheld electronic device  104 , which can be difficult when the user is on the go as for example when the user is exercising. Alternatively or additionally, the input mechanism may correspond to touch sensing devices such as touch pads, touch screens or touch sensitive housings. Examples of such devices can be found in U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 10/188,182, 10/643,256, 10/840,862, 10/903,964, 11/038,590, 11/057,050, and 11/115,539, which are herein incorporated by reference. 
     The connector unit  102  may also include output mechanisms such as indicators, speakers, displays, haptics devices, etc, that provide additional information to the user. In the case of music player, a speaker may be used to output sound to the user&#39;s surroundings rather than or in addition to earphones. Furthermore, color indicators (e.g., strobe) and vibrators (e.g., bass) may be used to enhance the feel of the music. For example, color indicators and vibrators may be configured to emulate the flow of the music. Moreover, a display may be used to add display functionality to a music player that is embodied without a display. An example of a music player without a display can be found in U.S. Patent Application No. 60/642,276, which is herein incorporated by reference. 
     The connector unit  102  may also include sensors such as a heart monitor, light sensor, temperature sensor, motion sensor (e.g., accelerometer), etc. that provide external information about the user or the user&#39;s surroundings that can be used by the handheld electronic device. Examples of sensors that can be used may be found in U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 10/402,311, 10/997,479, 60/658,777, and 60/663,345, which are herein incorporated by reference. 
     The connector unit  102  may also include additional ports, jacks, connectors so that additional peripheral devices can be coupled to the handheld device (e.g., audio, video, data, power, etc.). In some cases, the connector unit  102  may even include a wireless interface so that the handheld device can remotely communicate with other devices. In the case of a music player, the connector unit  102  may for example allow the user to broadcast music to other music players. An example of music broadcasting can be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/423,490, which is herein incorporated by reference. 
     The connector unit  102  may also include a battery for providing additional power to the handheld electronic device thereby extending its life when used remotely as for example when worn around the neck. 
     The connector unit  102  may also include a memory unit such as flash memory for providing additional memory to the handheld electronic device. In the case of the music player, the memory unit may contain additional lists of songs as for example songs, which are better associated with wearing the music player around the neck. The memory unit may for example include an exercise playlist that is tied to a particular workout. 
     The connector unit  102  may also include a processor that helps control interactions between the above mentioned devices carried by the connector unit  102  and the handheld electronic device  104 . The processor may also include additional control functionalities not offered by the handheld electronic device  104 . For example, the connector unit  102  may provide telephonic functionality to a handheld electronic device that does not normally have such functionality. In fact, to go along with this new processing capability, the connector unit  102  may even include a numeric or alphanumeric keypad so that the user can easily and conveniently make inputs associated with this new functionality. 
     In one particular embodiment, the connector unit  102  and/or the cord  110  are capable of being illuminated so as to affect a color change. As a result, these elements can be used to indicate events or status of the handheld held electronic device  104 . These elements may also indicate variables associated with the user as for example temperature, heart rate, speed, etc. In the case of heart rate, the color red may indicate when the user is reaching an upper limit of a heart rate threshold while the color blue may be indicate when the user is reaching a lower limit of the heart rate threshold. These elements may also be used to provide illumination at night (safety beacon) or to enhance the feel of music being outputted by the handheld electronic device, i.e., they can change color or provide visual effects according to the music (strobe, blinking, fading in and out). See for example U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/889,933, which is herein incorporated by reference. 
     The illumination can be widely varied. In one implementation, the cords  110  include a translucent or semi-translucent outer sheath and fiber optic wires disposed therein along with the inner wire. In some cases, the fiber optic wires completely surround the inner wire so as to hide the inner wire while in other cases, the fiber optic wires only partially surround the inner wire. The optical fibers can be controlled separately and selectively using separate LEDs located within the connector unit  102  or by a single LED located within the connector unit  102 . In another implementation, the connector unit  102  includes an illuminable shell and a light source such as an LED therein. The internal light source shines light on the illuminable shell thereby causing the illuminable shell to glow in the color of the light. Examples of light systems may be found in U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 10/075,964, 10/075,520 and 10/773,897, which are herein incorporated by reference. 
     In yet another embodiment, the connector unit  102  may include functional components of other types of electronic devices so that the handheld electronic device can operate as another type of electronic device. For example, it may include software and hardware that is different than the software and hardware of the handheld electronic device  104 , but works with the handheld electronic device  104  to extend its functionality (e.g., creating a multifunctional device). By way of example, the connector unit  102  may include functional components associated with cell phones, PDAs, GPS units, remote controls and media players. In the case of a connector unit with cell phone functionality, for example, the connector unit  102  may include an antenna, transceiver, and keypad. 
     Although the various embodiments noted above use an anchoring mechanism, such as the connector unit  102 , to attach a handheld electronic device can be referred to a lanyard, it should be noted that in another embodiment the handheld electronic device can be permanently affixed to the cord of the lanyard or the anchoring mechanism can be part of the handheld electronic device. 
     Furthermore, although the connector  109  of the connector unit  108  is primarily shown as a key that snaps into the portable electronic device, the support means may take other forms including sacks, skins, and shells, that partially or entirely surround the portable electronic device so as to secure the portable electronic device to the cord. In either case, the support means typically includes openings that allow a user to interact with user interface of the portable electronic device. Although it should be pointed out that this is not a requirement as for example in embodiments where the user interface is extended to the support means itself. The sacks, skins or shells may be formed from elastic or rigid materials. In one implementation, the skin is formed from an elastic material that conforms to the shape of the portable electronic device, i.e., can be stretched over the portable electronic device. By way of example, the skin may be formed from a woven or mesh like material, a foam like material or an elastic plastic or rubber material. In another implementation, the shell is formed from a substantially rigid plastic material such as polycarbonate. In cases such as this, the shell may be divided into two parts that are hinged together. When the portable electronic device is placed in one side of the shell, the other side is closed thereby placing the portable electronic device inside the shell. In all of these alternatives, the support means typically includes a connector so that the portable electronic device may be operatively coupled to the cord. 
       FIG. 5  is a simplified top view of a lanyard  200 , in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, a connector unit  202  of the lanyard  200  includes a first connector  204  and a portable electronic device  206  that couples with the lanyard  200  includes a second connector  210  that mechanically and electrically engages the first connector  204 . The first and second connectors  204  and  210  are configured for physical engagement and may include male/female interface. For example, the connectors  204  and  210  may be inserted into one another and may be secured via a friction coupling at the wiping surfaces between the two connectors  204  and  210 . Furthermore, each connector  204  and  210  includes at least some coinciding electrical contacts  211  that mate together when the connectors  204  and  210  are secured together. The contacts  211  may be used to transmit data and/or power between the connector unit  202  and the portable electronic device  206 . By way of example, the connectors may be USB or Firewire connectors, both of which have data and power transmitting capabilities. It should be appreciated, however, that this is by way of example and that other types of connectors may alternatively be used. 
     The lanyard  200  further includes a cord  212  that is attached to the connector unit  202 . The cord  212  forms a loop and includes a pair of extension tentacles  214  extending therefrom. The cord  212  and tentacles  214  cooperate to carry signals between the connector unit  202  and an I/O device  216  located at the ends of the tentacles  214 . The cord  212  allows the connector unit  202  to be worn around a user&#39;s neck, and the tentacles provide a short path from the cord to the head of the user (thereby reducing dangling cables). By way of example, the cord and tentacles may include one or more conductive wires therein. 
     In accordance with one embodiment, the portable electronic device includes music playing capabilities. As such, the extension tentacles  214  include earphones  216  at their ends that allow a user to listen to music being played on the portable electronic device. In order to provide stereo sound, a first side of the cord  212 A and a first extension finger  214 A of the lanyard  200  include therein a first set of conductive wires  218 A for transmitting a right audio channel from the first connector  204  to the earphones  216 . Furthermore, a second side of the cord  212 B and a second extension finger  214 B of the lanyard  200  include therein a second set of conductive wires  218 B for transmitting a left audio channel from the first connector  204  to the earphones  216 . The first and second sets of conductive wires may for example include a driving line and a ground line. The ground lines may be coupled to the same ground conductor of the connector unit  202 , and the driving lines may be coupled to different audio signal carrying lines of the connector unit  202 . 
     In one embodiment, the first connector  204  of the connector unit  202  is a modified female USB connector and the second connector  210  of the portable electronic device  206  with music playing capabilities is a standard male USB connector. The first connector  204  makes use of three of the at least four USB conductors to provide an electrical connection between the portable electronic device  206  and the earphones  216 . The at least four conductors of the USB connector typically include ground, power and two signal carrying conductors. In one implementation, the USB ground is used as the ground for both earphones  216  and the USB signal carrying lines D+ and D− are used for the right and left audio signals. The audio signals are conveyed through the USB connection and through the lanyard  200  to the earphones  216 . 
     Unlike the first connector  204  of the connector unit  202 , the second “standard” USB connector  210  on the portable electronic device  206  serves two purposes: 1) it serves as the main interface to a host computer that includes a standard USB port for upgrades and transferring data (e.g., music) between the host computer and the portable electronic device (e.g., file transfer) and 2) it provides audio output to the lanyard via the first connector, cord, tentacles and earphones. Because these are mutually exclusive tasks, the portable electronic device  206  is configured with switch arrangement for multiplexing between tasks. The switch arrangement may for example be configured to disconnect one functionality while connecting the other functionality. Multiplexing switch arrangements for use with electronic devices are widely known and therefore will not be described in anymore detail 
     Essentially, the portable electronic device  206  operates in two modes. Mode  1  is implemented when the portable electronic device  206  is connected to a standard USB port of a host device; and mode  2  is implemented when portable electronic device  206  is disconnected from a standard USB port of a host device and/or connected to the modified USB port  204  of the lanyard  200 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 6A , when mode  1  is active, the audio output of the portable electronic device  206  is powered down so as not to interfere with normal USB traffic. The signal used to power down the audio output is the USB power line (e.g., the +5V power line). When the portable electronic device  206  is plugged into an active standard USB port, the presence of power (e.g., +5V) alerts the portable electronic device  206  that it should disconnect the audio output. This frees the shared lines (USB and audio) to be used exclusively by the USB output. 
     Referring to  FIG. 6B , in mode  2  (the normal listening mode) the absence of power (e.g., +5V) causes the portable electronic device  206  to disconnect (e.g., tri state) its standard USB output. This frees the shared lines (USB and audio) to be used exclusively by the audio output. 
     Alternatively, the USB connectors may be replaced with Firewire connectors or other connectors with similar layouts. 
     Alternatively, the multiplexing or switching may be performed by a mechanical switch that is activated by a user or that is mechanically activated when the devices are inserted into one another. For example, when the device  206  is plugged into the connector unit  202 , the mechanical switch is toggled to a first position that activates the audio output and deactivates the USB output, and when the device  206  is plugged into a host device, the mechanical switch is toggled to a second position that activates the USB output and deactivates the audio output. 
     The portable electronic device may for example correspond to the media player, and more particularly the music player, disclosed in U.S. Patent Provisional Application No. 60/642,276, and/or U.S. Design patent application No. 29/220,038, both of which are herein incorporated by reference. 
       FIG. 7  is a method  300  of operating a portable electronic device with music playing capabilities, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In block  302 , a connector having shared conductors is provided. The shared conductors are capable of both data transmitting functionality and audio playing functionality. By way of example, the connector may be a USB or Firewire connector. In block  304 , a determination is made as to whether or not the connector is coupled to a host device. The host device may for example be a general purpose computer. In block  306 , the data transmitting functionality is enabled and the audio playing functionality is disabled when the connector is coupled to the host device. The portable electronic device is therefore free to share data with the host device. In block  308 , the audio playing functionality is enabled and the data transmitting functionality is disabled when the connector is not coupled to the host device. The portable electronic device is therefore free to output audio as for example to speakers or earphones. Alternatively, the audio playing functionality is enabled and the data transmitting functionality is disabled when the connector is coupled to an audio system such as for example the lanyard shown in  FIG. 5 . 
     The various aspects, embodiments, implementations or features of the invention can be used separately or in any combination. 
     The advantages of the invention are numerous. Different aspects, embodiments or implementations may yield one or more of the following advantages. One advantage of the invention is that portable electronic devices can be conveniently worn, such as about one&#39;s neck. Another advantage of the invention is that users of portable electronic devices are able to manage cabling or wires for an output device (e.g., earphones). Still another advantage of the invention is a neck cord that incorporates a device, such as earphones. Yet another advantage of the invention is a neck cord that serves to reduce the amount of cabling or wires that hang off from a user, thereby giving the user greater freedom of movement. 
     The many features and advantages of the present invention are apparent from the written description and, thus, it is intended by the appended claims to cover all such features and advantages of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, the invention should not be limited to the exact construction and operation as illustrated and described. Hence, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to as falling within the scope of the invention.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20050824
Publication Date: 20100119
Grant Date: 20100119
Priority Date: 20050824
Inventors: IULIIS DANIELE DE
ROHRBACH MATTHEW DEAN
ELIAS JOHN GREER
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H04R5/04", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F5/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R2201/023", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/163", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F2005/006", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F5/1525", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F5/1516", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F5/1516", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F5/1525", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R2201/023", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04R5/04", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F2005/006", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F5/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/163", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 37529441