PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-11856720-B2
Application Number: US-202117157938-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Accessory devices that communicate with electronic devices

Abstract:
Electronic devices and accessory devices designed for communication with electronic devices are disclosed. An accessory device suitable for use with an electronic device can receive the electronic device. Subject to authentication, the electronic device can read information stored on the accessory device through respective wireless communication circuitry of the electronic device and the accessory device. For example, the accessory device can store information related to the material makeup of the accessory device, dimensional information of the accessory device, and other integrated features. This information can be read and received by the electronic device. As a result, the electronic device can adjust a control system (that regulates thermal energy generation) by increasing a set point temperature that allows one or more processors to operate in a manner consistent with additional thermal energy generation. However, the accessory device protects the user from exposure to the additional thermal energy, thereby preventing injury.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A portable electronic device, comprising:
 a housing; 
 a magnetic field sensor configured to detect a magnetic field from a magnetic assembly external to the housing; 
 processing circuitry electrically coupled to the magnetic field sensor and configured to compare the magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor with a predetermined magnetic field, the processing circuitry comprising a circuit; 
 a wireless communication circuit electrically coupled to the processing circuitry, wherein in response to the processing circuitry determining the magnetic field matches the predetermined magnetic field, within a predetermined tolerance, the wireless communication circuit reads information from an external wireless communication circuit; and 
 a control system that regulates the circuit to operate in accordance with a first set point temperature, and in response to the information received by the wireless communication circuit, the control system regulates the circuit to operate in accordance with a second set point temperature that is greater than the first set point temperature. 
 
     
     
       2. The portable electronic device of  claim 1 , further comprising an inductive charging receiving coil, wherein the information received corresponds to a magnet of an accessory device configured to magnetically couple with the inductive charging receiving coil. 
     
     
       3. The portable electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the circuit is capable of performing a first set of operations when regulated by the first set point temperature, and the circuit is capable of performing a second set of operations when regulated by the first set point temperature, the second set of operations different from the first set of operations. 
     
     
       4. The portable electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the information received corresponds to a thickness of an accessory device configured to surround the housing. 
     
     
       5. The portable electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the information received corresponds to a material makeup of an accessory device configured to surround the housing. 
     
     
       6. The portable electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the magnetic field sensor comprises a magnetometer. 
     
     
       7. The portable electronic device of  claim 1 , further comprising memory, wherein the predetermined magnetic field is based on a prior instance of a magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor and stored on the memory. 
     
     
       8. A method for controlling temperature in an electronic device, the method comprising:
 receiving, by a magnetic field sensor, a magnetic field from a magnetic assembly external to the electronic device; 
 comparing, by processing circuitry electrically coupled to the magnetic field sensor, the magnetic field with a predetermined magnetic field; 
 in response to the processing circuitry determining the magnetic field matches the predetermined magnetic field within a predetermined tolerance, receiving, by a wireless communication circuit electrically coupled to the processing circuitry, information from an external wireless communication circuit; 
 controlling, by a control system, a circuit to operate in accordance with a first set point temperature; and 
 in response to the information being received by the wireless communication circuit, increasing the first set point temperature of the circuit to a second set point temperature greater than the first set point temperature such that the control system regulates the circuit to operate in accordance with the second set point temperature. 
 
     
     
       9. The method of  claim 8 , wherein comparing the magnetic field with the predetermined magnetic field comprises verifying the magnetic field is within a predetermined tolerance of the predetermined magnetic field prior to receiving the information. 
     
     
       10. The method of  claim 8 , wherein receiving, by the wireless communication circuit, the information from the external wireless communication circuit comprises authenticating an accessory device that carries the external wireless communication circuit. 
     
     
       11. The method of  claim 8 , further comprising:
 permitting the circuit to perform a first set of operations when regulated by the first set point temperature; and 
 in response to the information being received by the wireless communication circuit, permitting the circuit to perform a second set of operations different from the first set of operations. 
 
     
     
       12. The method of  claim 8 , wherein receiving the information defines received information, and the received information comprises a thickness or a material makeup of an accessory device. 
     
     
       13. The method of  claim 8 , wherein comparing the magnetic field with the predetermined magnetic field comprises comparing the magnetic field with a prior instance of a magnetic field vector detected by the magnetic field sensor.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/090,110, entitled “ACCESSORY DEVICES THAT COMMUNICATE WITH ELECTRONIC DEVICES,” filed Oct. 9, 2020, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The described embodiments relate generally to accessory devices and electronic devices, and communication between the devices. More particularly, the present embodiments relate to accessory devices designed to transmit information, via wireless communication, to electronic devices. For example, the accessory device may transmit dimensional information or material makeup information to the electronic device when the electronic device is inserted into the accessory device. The electronic device can use the information to alter one or more operations. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Accessory devices can provide a protective case or cover for electronic devices. Generally, accessory devices include one or more materials that, when combined, provide a sufficiently thick accessory that protects against some events that would otherwise damage the electronic device. However, while accessory devices can provide the aforementioned benefits, there are some drawbacks to using accessory devices. For instance, some accessory devices inadvertently form a “heat trap” by virtue of their position on the electronic device. Moreover, advances in processor technology provide faster processing speeds for electronic devices, but generate more heat during operation. Several electronic devices are designed to “throttle down,” or reduce the processing speed of the processor(s) in the electronic device when a threshold temperature is detected, thereby allowing the processor(s) to cool down. In some instances, electronic devices are designed to automatically shut down (without a user command) when a threshold temperature is detected. Accordingly, in some instances, the throttle down operation can be exacerbated by an accessory device that traps heat, leading to lower performance of the electronic device and an undesired user experience. Accordingly, some users are required to choose between protecting their electronic device (with the accessory device) or permitting greater processing capabilities (without the accessory device protecting their electronic device). 
     SUMMARY 
     In one aspect, a portable electronic device is described. The portable electronic device may include a housing defining an internal volume that stores components. The components may include a magnetic field sensor configured to detect a magnetic field from a magnetic assembly external to the housing. The components may further include processing circuitry configured to compare the magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor with a predetermined magnetic field. The components may further include a wireless communication circuit. In some embodiments, when the processing circuitry determines the magnetic field matches the predetermined magnetic field, within a predetermined tolerance, the wireless communication circuit reads information from an external wireless communication circuit. The components may further include an integrated circuit separate from the processing circuitry. The components may further include a control system configured to regulate the integrated circuit to operate in accordance with a first set point temperature. In some embodiments, when the information is received by the wireless communication circuit, the control system is configured to regulate the integrated circuit to operate in accordance with a second set point temperature that is greater than the first set point temperature. 
     In another aspect, an accessory device suitable for use with a portable electronic device is described. The accessory device may include a bottom wall. The accessory device may further include sidewalls extending from the bottom wall. In some embodiments, the bottom wall and the sidewalls combine to define a receptacle for the portable electronic device. The accessory device may further include a magnetic assembly disposed in the bottom wall. The magnetic assembly may generate a magnetic field that defines a magnetic field vector. The accessory device may further include a wireless communication circuit disposed in the bottom wall. The wireless communication circuit may be configured to transmit information to the portable electronic device subsequent to an authentication based upon the magnetic field vector. 
     In another aspect, a method for controlling an electronic device is described. The method may include receiving, by a magnetic field sensor, a magnetic field from a magnetic assembly external to the electronic device. The method may further include comparing, by processing circuitry, the magnetic field with a predetermined magnetic field. The method may further include, when the processing circuitry determines the magnetic field matches the predetermined magnetic field within a predetermined tolerance, receiving, by a wireless communication circuit, information from an external wireless communication circuit. The method may further include controlling, by a control system, an integrated circuit to operate in accordance with a first set point temperature. The method may further include, when the information is received by the wireless communication circuit, increasing, by the control system, from the first set point temperature to a second set point temperature greater than the first set point temperature such that the control system controls the integrated circuit to operate in accordance with the set point temperature. 
     Other aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the described embodiments. 
     This Summary is provided merely for purposes of summarizing some example embodiments so as to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the subject matter described herein. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the above-described features are merely examples and should not be construed to narrow the scope or spirit of the subject matter described herein in any way. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter described herein will become apparent from the following Detailed Description, Figures, and Claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements. 
         FIG.  1    illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an accessory device. 
         FIG.  2    illustrates a cross sectional view of the accessory device shown in  FIG.  1   , taken along line  2 - 2 , showing additional features of the accessory device. 
         FIG.  3    illustrates an alternate isometric view of the accessory device, showing features of the magnetic assembly. 
         FIG.  4    illustrates a schematic diagram of an accessory device, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
         FIG.  5    illustrates a plan view of an embodiment of an electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
         FIG.  6    illustrates an alternate plan view of the electronic device shown in  FIG.  5   , showing additional features of the electronic device. 
         FIG.  7    illustrates a schematic diagram of an electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
         FIG.  8    illustrates a plan view of an electronic device positioned in an accessory device, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
         FIG.  9    illustrates a flowchart showing an exemplary process for altering an electronic device based on interaction with an accessory device, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
         FIG.  10    illustrates a flowchart showing an exemplary process for controlling an electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
         FIG.  11    illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment of an accessory device, showing additional materials of the accessory device. 
         FIG.  12    illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an accessory device, showing the accessory device having a case and a cover. 
         FIG.  13    illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an accessory device, showing the accessory device with a battery. 
         FIG.  14    illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an accessory device, showing the accessory device having multiple sleeves or pockets for various items. 
         FIG.  15    illustrates a schematic diagram of an accessory device designed for application-specific purposes. 
         FIG.  16    illustrates a plan view of an alternate embodiment of an accessory device, showing the accessory device designed as a game controller. 
         FIG.  17    illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an accessory device designed for a laptop computing device. 
         FIG.  18    illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an accessory device in the form of a charging mat. 
         FIG.  19    illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an accessory device in the form of a charging module. 
     
    
    
     Those skilled in the art will appreciate and understand that, according to common practice, various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale, and that dimensions of various features and elements of the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention described herein. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Representative applications of methods and apparatus according to the present application are described in this section. These examples are being provided solely to add context and aid in the understanding of the described embodiments. It will thus be apparent to one skilled in the art that the described embodiments may be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other instances, well known process steps have not been described in detail in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the described embodiments. Other applications are possible, such that the following examples should not be taken as limiting. 
     In the following detailed description, references are made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the description and in which are shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in accordance with the described embodiments. Although these embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable one skilled in the art to practice the described embodiments, it is understood that these examples are not limiting; such that other embodiments may be used, and changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the described embodiments. 
     This application is directed to accessory devices designed to enhance the overall user experience of electronic devices, including portable electronic devices such as mobile wireless communication devices (e.g., smartphones, tablet computing devices) and laptop computing devices, as non-limiting examples. Accessory devices described herein may include cases, covers, folios/wallets, and sleeves, as non-limiting examples. Further, accessory devices described herein can communicate information, such as characteristics and features of an accessory device, to electronic devices. For example, an accessory device may include a near-field communication (“NFC”) circuit that can transmit, through wireless communication using NFC protocol, information related to the type of accessory device, material makeup of the accessory device, dimensional information of the accessory device, and other integrated features of the accessory device. The electronic device can use this information to alter one or more operations, thus optimizing performance. 
     Some electronic devices have a built-in control system designed to control component temperatures, particularly heat-generating operational components. For example, an electronic device may include processors, or processing circuitry, such as a central processing unit (“CPU”), a graphics processing unit (“GPU”), and/or an application-specific integrated circuit (“ASIC”), that generate thermal energy, or heat, during operation. Generally, the thermal energy generated by a processor is a function of the complexity of operations (e.g., lines of code) being processed, the frequency or processing speed, and the time duration of use of the processor, as non-limiting examples. 
     In order to control thermal energy generation, electronic devices described herein may include a control system that relies on temperature sensors and software. For example, a control system using a set point temperature, or threshold temperature, can monitor one or more processors with one or more temperature sensors, and when a temperature sensor indicates the temperature at or near the processor reaches or exceeds the set point temperature, the control system can restrict use/operation of the processor, or in some cases shut down the processor (or the electronic device itself) as a mechanism to limit or prevent further thermal energy generation. Additionally, the electronic devices may include thermally conductive hardware (e.g., heat spreaders, metals) to dissipate thermal energy through conduction and/or convection. The control system (and other aforementioned design modifications) not only decreases the likelihood of damage to the processors and/or surrounding components, but also reduces thermal exposure to a user. Regarding the latter, the control system can prevent injury to the user. 
     When the electronic device is within a sufficient proximity to the accessory device, the transfer of information from the accessory device to the electronic device may occur through respective NFC circuits. For instance, accessory devices described herein may include a receptacle designed to receive an electronic device, thus defining, at minimum, “sufficient proximity” between the electronic device and the accessory device. Additionally, prior to an information transfer event, an authentication protocol, or “handshake,” may occur between the electronic device and the accessory device. In this regard, the accessory device may include a magnetic assembly that generates a unique magnetic field represented by a magnetic field vector. The magnetic assembly of the accessory device can act as a “key” used by the electronic device, which relies upon a magnetometer to read/detect the magnetic field vector from the magnetic assembly, to authenticate the accessory device. Accordingly, other accessory devices with a magnet or magnetic assembly that do not generate the unique magnetic field vector may be deemed “non-compatible”by the electronic device, and thus, no information transfer event occurs between the electronic device and the accessory device. 
     By receiving the information from the accessory device, the electronic device can subsequently alter certain processes to improve performance. For example, when the electronic device receives dimensional information and material makeup of the accessory device, the electronic device can determine it is covered/surrounded by the accessory device, and can adjust/increase the set point temperature of the control system, thereby allowing the processor(s) to run more complex operations for a longer period of time. While the set point temperature increase corresponds to increased thermal energy production, the accessory device is positioned over the electronic device (including a metal housing), and can shield the user from excessive thermal energy exposure. Further, in some instances, accessory devices described herein are designed to receive and dissipate the thermal energy generated by an electronic device. This may include a heat spreader, as a non-limiting example. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS.  1 - 19   . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. 
       FIG.  1    illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an accessory device  100 . In some embodiments, accessory device  100  is a folio, a wallet, or a sleeve. In the embodiment shown in  FIG.  1   , accessory device  100  is a case. As shown, accessory device  100  may include a wall  102 , also referred to as a back wall or bottom wall. Accessory device  100  may further include several sidewalls, including a sidewall  104   a , a sidewall  104   b , a sidewall  104   c  and a sidewall  104   d , each of which extend from wall  102 . Wall  102  and sidewalls  104   a ,  104   b ,  104   c , and  104   d  combine to define a receptacle  106 , or cavity or space, for an electronic device (not shown in  FIG.  1   ). The material makeup of wall  102  and sidewalls  104   a ,  104   b ,  104   c , and  104   d  may vary, based on the embodiment. For example, in some embodiments, wall  102  and sidewalls  104   a ,  104   b ,  104   c , and  104   d  are defined in part by materials, such as leather, faux leather, polycarbonate, and microfiber. In some embodiments, wall  102  and sidewalls  104   a ,  104   b ,  104   c , and  104   d  are defined in part by silicone, polycarbonate, and microfiber. In some embodiments, wall  102  and sidewalls  104   a ,  104   b ,  104   c , and  104   d  are defined in part by one or more transparent polymers. 
     Additionally, wall  102  may include several features. For example, wall  102  may include a magnetic assembly  108 . Magnetic assembly  108  is designed to magnetically couple with an external device, such as a wireless charger having an inductive transmitting coil. Magnetic assembly  108  may include a variety of configurations. For example, magnetic assembly  108  may include several magnetic elements, or alternatively, magnetic assembly  108  may include a single magnetic element. Also, as shown, magnetic assembly  108  may include a circular magnetic assembly. However, other shapes and configurations are possible. The number of magnetic elements, as well as the size, shape, location and polarity of the magnetic elements of magnetic assembly  108  may define a unique magnetic field vector. This will be further discussed below. 
     Wall  102  may further include a wireless communication circuit  110 . In some embodiments, wireless communication circuit  110  is configured for transmission in accordance with BLUETOOTH® protocol, which may additional require a battery (not shown in  FIG.  1   ). In the embodiment shown in  FIG.  1   , wireless communication circuit  110  is configured for transmission in accordance with near-field communication (“NFC”) protocol, and can provide relatively low-power transmission of information. Also, as shown, wireless communication circuit  110  may include a circular wireless communication circuit concentric with respect to magnetic assembly  108 . However, other shapes and configurations are possible. Wireless communication circuit  110  is designed to transmit information related to accessory device  100  to an electronic device positioned in receptacle  106 . For instance, wireless communication circuit  110  can transmit information related to the material makeup of wall  102  and sidewalls  104   a ,  104   b ,  104   c , and  104   d , as well as that of magnetic assembly  108 . Alternatively, or in combination, wireless communication circuit  110  can transmit information related to the dimension, or thickness, of wall  102  and sidewalls  104   a ,  104   b ,  104   c , and  104   d . An electronic device that reads and receives information from wireless communication circuit  110  can alter one or more operations for optimization purposes. This will be discussed below. Also, wall  102  may include an opening  112  designed to receive/accommodate a camera assembly of an electronic device. 
       FIG.  2    illustrates a cross sectional view of accessory device  100  shown in  FIG.  1   , taken along line  2 - 2 , showing additional features of accessory device  100 . As shown, wall  102  includes a thickness  114  corresponding to a 1-dimensional length of wall  102 . The dimension of thickness  114  of wall  102  can be stored as information on, and subsequently transmitted by, wireless communication circuit  110 . Additionally, the size, shape, and location of magnetic assembly  108  and wireless communication circuit  110  can also be stored as information on, and subsequently transmitted by, wireless communication circuit  110 . This may also include the layout of magnetic assembly  108 , including the number of magnetic elements of magnetic assembly  108 . Further, the size and shape of sidewalls (sidewalls  104   a  and  104   c  shown) of accessory device  100  can also be stored as information on, and subsequently transmitted by, wireless communication circuit  110 . Wireless communication circuit  110  is capable of transmitting all the aforementioned stored information to an electronic device (not shown in  FIG.  2   ). 
     Prior to transmission from accessory device  100  to an electronic device, an authentication procedure may occur to ensure compatibility between accessory device  100  and an electronic device. The authentication procedure can ensure the electronic device is an approved electronic device for accessory device  100 , or vice versa. 
       FIG.  3    illustrates an alternate isometric view of accessory device  100 , showing features of magnetic assembly  108 . Magnetic assembly  108 , as a collection of one or more magnetic elements, generates a magnetic field. The resultant magnetic field can be represented by a magnetic field vector  116 , indicating at least a direction and magnitude of the magnetic field generated by magnetic assembly  108 . As shown in the enlarged view, magnetic field vector  116  is a function of an X-axis magnetic field  118   a , a Y-axis magnetic field  118   b , and a Z-axis magnetic field  118   c . An electronic device (not shown in  FIG.  3   ), positioned in receptacle  106  of accessory device  100 , can use a magnetic field sensor to detect a magnetic field generated by magnetic assembly  108 , and further, detect magnetic field vector  116 , including the direction and/or magnitude of magnetic field vector  116 . The electronic device can further compare magnetic field vector  116  with a predetermined (or predefined or preprogrammed) magnetic field vector, and if the electronic device determines a sufficient match, within a predetermined tolerance (e.g., 60% to 100%), between magnetic field vector  116  and the predetermined magnetic field vector, the electronic device can authenticate, or initiate a “handshake” with, accessory device  100 , and can subsequently read information from wireless communication circuit  110 . Alternatively, if the electronic device determines there is not a sufficient match between magnetic field vector  116  and the predetermined magnetic field vector, no handshake occurs and the electronic device is not permitted to read information from wireless communication circuit  110 . 
     Magnetic field vector  116  can form an angle θ (shown in the enlarged view) relative to an X-Y plane defined by, for example, wall  102  of accessory device  100 . When angle θ is a non-zero angle (in degrees), magnetic field vector  116  may include a component in three different dimensions. Angle θ can vary in different embodiments of accessory device  100 . For example, based on magnetic assembly  108 , magnetic field vector  116  can form angle θ greater than 0 degrees and up to 90 degrees (relative to wall  102 ) in any direction with a Z-component outside of the X-Y plane. Electronic devices described herein can use a magnetic field sensor to detect the characteristics of magnetic field vector  116 , including magnitude and angle θ. 
     It should be noted that magnetic field vector  116  shown in  FIG.  3    is an exemplary magnetic field vector, and a magnetic assembly different from magnetic assembly  108  may generate a magnetic field with a magnetic field vector different from magnetic field vector  116 . Also, in some embodiments, different accessory devices may include different magnetic assemblies, with each accessory device model (e.g., case, cover, wallet, sleeve, etc.) having a unique magnetic assembly, thus generating a unique magnetic field vector. Electronic devices described herein may use the unique magnetic field vector to determine which model or type of accessory device is currently being used with the electronic device. In other words, in some embodiments, magnetic field vector  116  defines a unique magnetic field vector associated specifically with accessory device  100 , or associated with a model number corresponding to accessory device  100 . 
       FIG.  4    illustrates a schematic diagram of an accessory device  200 , in accordance with some described embodiments. Accessory device  200  may include a magnetic assembly  208  designed to magnetically couple with an external device, such as a wireless charger. Also, when the electronic device is positioned/disposed in accessory device  200  (e.g., a receptacle of accessory device  200 ), magnetic assembly  208  may be aligned with an inductive charging receiver coil in an electronic device. In this manner, when the wireless charger is used to charge (through inductive charging) a battery of the electronic device, magnetic assembly  208  can align the wireless charger with the inductive charging receiver coil in the electronic device, thereby increasing charging efficiency, which can contribute to less energy required to charge the battery. 
     Additionally, accessory device  200  includes a wireless communication circuit  210 , which may include an NFC circuit, as a non-limited example. Wireless communication circuit  210  is designed to transmit information  220  related to accessory device  200 . Information  220  can be stored on memory provided by wireless communication circuit  210 , or alternately, on a separate memory circuit. Information  220  may include the model or serial number of accessory device  200 , material makeup of accessory device  200 , dimensional information of accessory device  200 , and/or information related to magnetic assembly  208 . In this regard, when an electronic device is within sufficient proximity to wireless communication circuit  210 , the electronic device can read/receive information  220  using its own wireless communication circuit. 
       FIG.  5    illustrates a plan view of an electronic device  350 , in accordance with some described embodiments. Electronic device  350  is suitable for use with accessory devices described herein, such as accessory device  100  (shown in  FIG.  1   ). Electronic device  350  may include a smartphone or a tablet computing device, as non-limiting examples. As shown, electronic device  350  includes a housing  352 , or enclosure, which may include a metal housing. Electronic device  350  further includes a display  354  coupled with housing  352 . Display  354 , which may include a display commonly known in the art for mobile device displays, is designed to present visual information  356 . As shown, visual information  356  includes date and time information. However, visual information  356  may include a variety of other textual information, as well as still images and/or motion (video) images. 
     Additionally, electronic device  350  may include a camera  358  designed to capture images that are external to electronic device  350 . Electronic device  350  may further include a light sensor  360  designed to detect and determine light intensity, and provide light intensity information to processing circuitry (not shown in  FIG.  5   ) of electronic device  350 . The light intensity information provided by light sensor  360  can be used to, for example, determine whether display  354  is covered and subsequently whether to deactivate display  354 . In some embodiments, camera  358  can also be used to determine whether display  354  is covered and subsequently whether to deactivate display  354 . Also, electronic device  350  may include an audio speaker  362  designed to emit acoustical energy in the form of audible sound. Camera  358 , light sensor  360 , and audio speaker  362  are exemplary input and output mechanisms of electronic device, and the number (and order/position) of these mechanisms may vary in other embodiments. 
       FIG.  6    illustrates an alternate plan view of electronic device  350  shown in  FIG.  5   , showing additional features of electronic device  350 . The back/rear side of electronic device  350  is shown. At this location, electronic device  350  may include a protruding feature  364  in which several features are located. For instance, at protruding feature  364 , electronic device  350  may include a camera  366   a  and camera  366   b . Although cameras  366   a  and  366   b  are shown, the number of cameras may vary. Additionally, electronic device  350  may include a light source  368 , which may include a flash light source, that provides additional light during an image capturing event by camera  366   a  or camera  366   b.    
       FIG.  7    illustrates a schematic diagram of an electronic device  450 , in accordance with some described embodiments. Electronic device  450  is suitable for use with accessory devices described herein. Further, electronic devices (including electronic device  350 , shown in  FIG.  5   ) described herein may include features shown and described for electronic device  450 . As shown, electronic device  450  includes processing circuitry  470 . Processing circuitry  470  may include a CPU, as a non-limiting example, designed to execute one or more programs stored on memory  472 . In this regard, processing circuitry  470  may include controlling circuitry for a circuit  474 , which may include a GPU or an ASIC, as non-limiting examples. Circuit  474  is also designed to execute one or more programs stored on memory  472 . 
     During operation, processing circuitry  470  and/or circuit  474  may generate thermal energy. In some instances, excessive thermal energy can cause damage to processing circuitry  470  and/or circuit  474 , or further, cause injury to a user. In this regard, electronic device  450  may include a control system  476  (composed of hardware circuitry and software) designed to limit/reduce thermal energy generated by processing circuitry  470  and circuit  474 . For example, control system  476  may include a temperature sensor  478  (representing one or more temperature sensors) located on or near processing circuitry  470 , and/or on or near circuit  474 . Temperature sensor  478  (or sensors) can monitor the temperature (or at least an approximate temperature) of processing circuitry  470  and/or circuit  474 , and provide an input (representing the monitored temperature) to control system  476 . Using input information from temperature sensor  478 , control system  476  can determine whether the temperature of processing circuitry  470  and/or circuit  474  reaches a set point temperature, or threshold temperature. When the set point temperature is reached, control system  476  can provide a signal or command to processing circuitry  470 , thereby causing processing circuitry  470  and/or circuit  474  to limit or cease operations, which may include reducing the processing frequency, or reducing the number of software applications running, as non-limiting examples. Temperature sensor  478  can continue to monitor processing circuitry  470  and/or circuit  474 , and when the temperature is below the set point temperature, control system  476  can cease limiting or preventing processing circuitry  470  and/or circuit  474  from their respective operations, thereby allowing processing circuitry  470  and/or circuit  474  to resume operations. 
     In some embodiments, control system  476  may include advanced features. For example, in addition to allowing processing circuitry  470  and/or circuit  474  to operate in accordance with a first, or initial, set point temperature (described above), control system  476  can also allow processing circuitry  470  and/or circuit  474  to operate in accordance with a second, or subsequent, set point temperature. The second set point temperature may be higher than the first set point temperature. In some embodiments, the first set point temperature is selected in a range of 55 to 65 degrees Celsius, and the second set point temperature is selected in a range of 75 to 85 degrees Celsius. By allowing processing circuitry  470  and/or circuit  474  to operate in accordance with the second set point temperature, processing circuitry  470  and/or circuit  474  can operate at higher temperatures, which corresponds to additional processes or more complex processes, before control system  476  provides a control signal to limit or cease processing circuitry  470  and/or circuit  474  from further operations. For example, advanced gaming systems, with detailed, high-resolution graphics and high-frequency display refresh rates, are known to cause processing circuitry  470  and/or circuit  474  to generate a relatively high amount of thermal energy. When electronic device  450  uses processing circuitry  470  (e.g., CPU) and circuit  474  (e.g., GPU) to run an advanced gaming system on a display  454 , processing circuitry  470  and circuit  474  may each generate a relatively high amount of thermal energy that causes the internal temperature to exceed the first set point temperature. However, when control system  476  allows processing circuitry  470  and circuit  474  to exceed the first set point temperature, control system  476  does not restrict processing circuitry  470  and circuit  474  until the temperature (as determined by temperature sensor  478 ) reaches the second set point temperature. Accordingly, the user of electronic device  450  can play the advanced gaming system for a longer period of time, and in some cases, without interruption. Accordingly, control system  476  allows processing circuitry  470  and/or circuit  474  to perform a first set of operations when regulated by the first set point temperature. Additionally, control system  476  allows processing circuitry  470  and/or circuit  474  to perform a second (different) set of operations when regulated by the first set point temperature. Generally, the second set of operations is associated with permitting greater processing frequency, higher complexity software applications (e.g., advanced gaming), and additional software applications running simultaneously, as opposed to the first set of operations. 
     In order to enable control system  476  to monitor processing circuitry  470  and circuit  474  at the second set point temperature, electronic device  450  can receive an indication that electronic device  450  is disposed/position within, or carried by, an accessory device (e.g., any accessory device described herein). In this regard, electronic device  450  may further include a magnetic field sensor  480  designed to detect a magnetic field generated from a magnet or magnetic assembly external to electronic device  450 . In some embodiments, magnetic field sensor  480  is a Hall Effect sensor. In the embodiment shown in  FIG.  7   , magnetic field sensor  480  is a magnetometer. In this regard, magnetic field sensor  480  can detect a magnet field from not only a magnetic assembly, but also can detect the Earth&#39;s magnetic field, and accordingly, electronic device  450  can use magnetic field sensor  480  to provide a compass, i.e., a software application that provides compass information presented on display  454 . 
     Additionally, magnetic field sensor  480  can detect a magnetic field from a magnetic assembly in an accessory device, such as magnetic assembly  108  of accessory device  100  (shown in  FIG.  1   ). Moreover, magnetic field sensor  480  can determine/detect a magnetic field vector, such as magnetic field vector  116  of magnetic assembly  108  (shown in  FIG.  3   ), and provide the determined/detected magnetic field vector (including direction and magnitude) to processing circuitry  470 . In this regard, magnetic field sensor  480  is designed to detect the characteristics of a magnetic field vector of an accessory device described herein, including the magnitude and angle of the magnetic field vector, the latter of which may include an angle formed by a magnetic field vector with three components in three different dimensions. Magnetic field sensor  480  can detect a magnetic field vector in a variety of magnitudes and angles. Processing circuitry  470  can compare the detected magnetic field vector with a predetermined magnetic field vector, either through a lookup table stored on memory  472  or a remote server, including a cloud-based server. When a sufficient match, within a predetermined tolerance (e.g., 60% to 100%), between the detected magnetic field vector and the predetermined magnetic field vector is determined, the electronic device  450  can authenticate an accessory device through a “handshake,” for example. 
     Further, the magnetic field vector detected by magnetic field sensor  480  based upon the location of magnetic field sensor  480  in electronic device  450 . Accordingly, the position of magnetic field sensor  480  can be accounted for in determining the magnetic field vector, as the magnetic field vector, as detected by magnetic field sensor  480 . Accordingly, a magnetic field vector (from a magnetic assembly) can register differently (i.e., as a different magnetic field vector in terms of magnitude and angle) at different positions/locations relative to magnet field sensor  480 . 
     Electronic device  450  may further include a wireless communication circuit  482 . Wireless communication circuit  482  may include an NFC circuit, as a non-limiting example. Subsequent to the aforementioned authentication process, electronic device  450  can use wireless communication circuit  482  to read information from a wireless communication circuit of an accessory device, such as information  220  from wireless communication circuit  210  of accessory device  200  (shown in  FIG.  4   ). Wireless communication circuit  482  can provide the information to processing circuitry  470 . The information provided to processing circuitry  470  may include the type of the accessory device (e.g., case, cover/folio, wallet, sleeve, etc.), the material makeup of the accessory device, and/or dimensional information of the accessory device, as non-limiting examples. 
     In some embodiments, the exchange of information between wireless communication circuit  482  and a wireless communication circuit of an accessory device can be minimized. For example, in some embodiments, using memory  472 , electronic device  450  stores a prior instance of a detected magnet field vector and resultant information read from a wireless communication circuit of an accessory device (that generated the magnetic field vector). Further, using magnetic field sensor  480 , electronic device  450  can detect a current instance of a detected magnet field vector. The two magnetic field vectors can be compared by using, for example, processing circuitry  470 . If the difference between the two vectors is below (or within) a threshold difference value, then electronic device  450  can determine the same accessory device currently used with electronic device  450  was previously used with electronic device  450 . The “threshold difference value” can be a function of several characteristics, such as an average and standard deviation or hysteresis, to create an acceptable vector range that the currently detected magnetic field vector may fall within. As a result, the exchange of wireless communication may not be required, and electronic device  450  can retrieve, using memory  472 , the characteristics of an accessory device that was previously used with electronic device  450 . Accordingly, in this exemplary embodiment, a “predetermined magnetic field vector” corresponds to a magnetic field vector stored on the electronic device through a prior instance of the electronic device being used with the accessory device. Also, in some embodiments, memory  472  can store several, if not all, instances of a detected magnetic field and electronic device  450  can compare a currently-detected magnetic field vector, using magnetic field sensor  480 , with any prior stored instance of a magnet field vector to determine/predict the accessory device currently being used with electronic device  450  and forego reading from the wireless communication circuit of the accessory device, as electronic device  450  already has the information previously read from the accessory device stored on memory  472 . 
     Moreover, in some instances, an external magnet (different from a magnetic assembly) can combine with the magnetic assembly to generate a different magnetic field vector. This can result in magnetic field sensor  480  detecting/determining a magnetic field vector different from an expected magnet field vector from a magnetic assembly of an accessory device. For example, wireless inductive chargers, magnets, and/or metals surfaces can alter the magnetic field vector provided by an accessory device to be detected by magnetic field sensor  480 . In this regard, electronic device  450  can use an absolute magnetic field vector (in terms of magnitude and angle) or compare with a prior detected magnetic field vector that generated/initiated wireless communication with an accessory device. In either method, electronic device  450  can compare the detected (current) magnetic field vector with a range/threshold of predetermined or prior magnetic field vectors. When the current detected magnetic field vector is within an expected range of magnetic field vectors, electronic device  450  can initiate wireless communication to read the wireless communication circuit of the accessory device, or alternatively, electronic device  450  can determine the accessory device has previously provided information from the wireless communication circuit of the accessory device and use that information to make a determination about altering an operation of electronic device  450 , such as adjusting a set point temperature. 
     In some embodiments, electronic device  450  determines, based on the information received from the accessory device, that the accessory device can sufficiently absorb thermal energy generated by the aforementioned heat-generating operational components of electronic device  450 , and control system  476  can adjust the set point temperature to the second set point temperature. Alternatively, or in combination, electronic device  450  determines, based on the information received from the accessory device, that the accessory device can either sufficiently shield a user of electronic device  450  from the thermal energy generated by the aforementioned heat-generating operational components of electronic device  450 , and control system  476  can adjust the set point temperature to the second set point temperature. Accordingly, accessory devices described herein can contribute to electronic device  450  adjusting to the second set point temperature, and running additional and/or more complex processes. 
     In some embodiments, control system  476  uses the received information to control processing circuitry  470  and/or circuit  474  in accordance with an intermediate, or third, set point temperature. The intermediate set point temperature may include a temperature between the first set point temperature and the second set point temperature. In this regard, electronic device  450  can control processing circuitry  470  and/or circuit  474  in accordance with a sliding scale of set point temperatures, which is based upon the selected accessory device and its material makeup and/or dimensional information. Accordingly, electronic device  450  can provide a dynamic set point temperature within a range of set point temperatures, as compared to a binary set point temperature configuration. 
     Regarding the material makeup, the information provided to processing circuitry  470  may include the presence of a magnetic assembly (such as magnetic assembly  108 , shown in  FIG.  1   ), including the number of magnetic elements, size and shape of each of the magnetic elements, and the magnetic polarity of each of the magnetic elements. Processing circuitry  470  can then determine that the accessory device can optimize a wireless charging event. For example, electronic device  450  may further include an inductive charging module  484  for wireless charging of a battery  486  of electronic device  450 . Inductive charging module  484  may include an inductive charging receiver coil. The magnetic assembly in the accessory device may align with inductive charging module  484  when electronic device  450  is positioned in a receptacle of the accessory device. In this manner, a wireless charger used to provide a wireless charge to battery  486  is aligned with inductive charging module  484 , thereby increasing efficiency (i.e., less energy required per charge, or less time with the same amount of energy) of the wireless charging event. 
     Also, in some embodiments, electronic device  450 , having received the information that includes the material makeup of the accessory device, can further optimize inductive charging module  484  to increase charging efficiency. For example, electronic device  450  can determine (or at least approximate) the effective impedance of a wireless charger when the accessory device is positioned between the wireless charger and electronic device  450 . In other words, when a wireless charger is used to charge battery  486  via inductive charging module  484 , the accessory device can alter the overall impedance of the wireless charging event. In this regard, electronic device  450  can use the information related to the accessory device to adjust the impedance of the inductive charging module  484  to match (or at least substantially match) that of the effective impedance, based on the wireless charger and the accessory device, thereby increasing charging efficiency during a wireless charging event. 
       FIG.  8    illustrates a plan view of an electronic device  550  positioned in an accessory device  500 , in accordance with some described embodiments. Accessory device  500  and electronic device  550  may include any features described herein for an accessory device and an electronic device, respectively. In this regard, accessory device  500  and electronic device  550  may each include a wireless communication circuit. Also, when electronic device  550  is positioned within a receptacle (not labeled) of accessory device  500 , as shown in  FIG.  8   , electronic device  550  and accessory device  500  are within sufficient proximity for their respective wireless communication circuits to communicate with each together. For example, the wireless communication circuit of electronic device  550  can read information from the wireless communication circuit of accessory device  500 . Alternatively, “sufficient proximity” may be defined as a distance between electronic device  550  and accessory device  500  in which a magnetic field sensor (e.g., magnetic field sensor  480  in  FIG.  7   ) can detect a magnetic field vector (e.g., magnetic field vector  116  in  FIG.  3   ). In this regard, in some embodiments, a magnetic field sensor of electronic device  550  can detect a magnetic field vector of accessory device  500  even when electronic device  550  is not positioned in a receptacle of accessory device  500 . 
       FIG.  9    illustrates a flowchart  600  showing an exemplary process for altering an electronic device based on interaction with an accessory device, in accordance with some described embodiments. In step  602 , the electronic device can monitor for a magnetic field. The electronic device may include a magnetic field sensor, such as a magnetometer (as a non-limiting example). The magnetic field to be monitored may include a magnetic field generated by a magnetic assembly located in an accessory device. 
     In step  604 , a magnetic field is detected. This may include the magnetic field from the aforementioned magnetic assembly. The magnetic field sensor can detect the direction and magnitude of the magnetic field, represented as a magnetic field vector. Additionally, the magnetic field sensor can detect an angle of the magnetic field vector that lies outside a two-dimensional (e.g., X-Y) plane. 
     In step  606 , a determination is made whether the detected magnetic matches a predetermined magnetic field. The electronic device can compare the detected magnetic field vector with a predetermined (or predefined or preprogrammed) magnetic field vector. If the electronic device determines a sufficient match, within a predetermined tolerance (e.g., 60% to 100%), between the detected magnetic field vector and the predetermined magnetic field vector, the electronic device can authenticate, or initiate a “handshake” with, the accessory device. In some embodiments, the magnetic field vector corresponds to a particular model of accessory device. In this regard, the electronic device can determine the model of the accessory device, including several features thereof. If, on the other hand, the detected magnetic field vector does not sufficiently match the predetermined magnet field vector, flowchart  600  returns to step  602 . 
     In another example, an electronic device can store a prior instance of a detected magnet field vector and the information read from a wireless communication circuit of an accessory device. The two magnetic field vectors (current and prior) can be compared, and if the difference between the two vectors is below a threshold difference value, the electronic device can determine the same accessory device used with electronic device in the prior instance is currently being used. Also, the electronic device can store several, if not all, instances of a detected magnetic field and can compare a currently-detected magnetic field vector with any prior stored instance of a magnet field vector to determine/predict the accessory device currently being used with electronic device and forego reading from the wireless communication circuit of the accessory device, as electronic device already has the information previously read from the accessory device stored on memory. Accordingly, the “predetermined magnet field” in this example corresponds to a magnetic field vector stored on the electronic device through a prior instance of the electronic device being used with the accessory device. 
     When flowchart  600  proceeds to step  608 , the electronic device reads the information from the accessory device. The electronic device may include a wireless communication circuit capable of reading the information from a corresponding wireless communication circuit of the accessory device. The information may include the material makeup of the accessory device, the dimensional information of the accessory device, and the size, shape and location of the magnetic assembly of the accessory device, as non-limiting examples. It should be noted that, in some instances, step  608  may only occur subsequent to the detection of a magnetic field vector matching the predetermined magnetic field vector, as described in step  606 . 
     In step  610 , the electronic device may perform an operation based on the received information. In some embodiments, the operation performed includes raising/increasing a set point temperature from a first set point temperature to a second set point temperature, or adjusting the set point temperature to an intermediate set point temperature between the first and second set point temperatures. In some embodiments, the operation performed includes adjusting the impedance of an inductive charging module of the electronic device to match that of an effective impedance of a wireless charger when the accessory device (positioned between the electronic device and the wireless charging mechanism) is accounted for. In some embodiments, the operation performed includes an application-specific mode based on receiving application-specific information. For example, the application-specific information may include aviation information, automotive/driving information, or home automation information. In this regard, the application-specific information may cause the electronic device to enable some features (e.g., display certain software applications) and disable other applications (e.g., touch input to the display). This will be discussed further below. 
       FIG.  10    illustrates a flowchart  700  showing an exemplary process for controlling an electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments. In step  702 , a control system of the electronic device is operated based on a first temperature threshold, or first set point temperature. The control system of the electronic device is designed to monitor operational components, specifically heat-generating operational components. In this manner, the electronic device may include one or more temperature sensors (e.g., solid-state temperature sensors, thermistors) that are positioned in the electronic device in a location(s) near the heat-generating operational components. The control system can use one or more temperature sensors to monitor the temperature of the heat-generating operational components, and when it is determined that a heat-generating operational component(s) reaches a temperature at (or in some cases, above) the first temperature threshold, the control system can provide a signal to the heat-generating operational component(s) to limit or prevent additional usage of the heat-generating operational component(s), thereby limiting further thermal energy generation. 
     The control system can control a heat-generating operational component to operate based on a first temperature threshold in different ways. For example, the control system can limit the frequency of operations of a heat-generating operational component that includes a processor circuit. In other words, in accordance with the first temperature threshold, the control system can limit the processing speeds to a frequency below the maximum specified frequency of the processor circuit. As another example, the control system can shut down a heat-generating operational component when the temperature reaches or exceeds the first temperature threshold. In yet another example, the control system can limit the number of software applications running on a heat-generating operational component that includes a processor circuit. 
     In step  704 , a determination is made whether a predetermined magnetic field is detected. In this regard, the electronic device may include a magnetic field sensor, such as a magnetometer (as a non-limiting example). The magnetic field to be monitored may include a magnetic field generated by a magnetic assembly located in an accessory device. A magnetic field vector may represent the direction and magnitude of the magnetic field. The electronic device can compare the detected magnetic field vector with a predetermined (or predefined or preprogrammed) magnetic field vector. If the electronic device determines a sufficient match, within a predetermined tolerance (e.g., 60% to 100%), between the detected magnetic field vector and the predetermined magnetic field vector, the electronic device can authenticate, or initiate a “handshake” with, the accessory device, and can subsequently read information from a wireless communication circuit of the accessory device. If, on the other hand, the detected magnetic field vector does not sufficiently match the predetermined magnet field vector, flowchart  700  returns to step  702 . 
     In another example, an electronic device can store a prior instance of a detected magnet field vector and the information read from a wireless communication circuit of an accessory device. The two magnetic field vectors (current and prior) can be compared, and if the difference between the two vectors is below a threshold difference value, the electronic device can determine the same accessory device used with electronic device in the prior instance is currently being used. Also, the electronic device can store several, if not all, instances of a detected magnetic field and can compare a currently-detected magnetic field vector with any prior stored instance of a magnet field vector to determine/predict the accessory device currently being used with electronic device and forego reading from the wireless communication circuit of the accessory device, as electronic device already has the information previously read from the accessory device stored on memory. Accordingly, the “predetermined magnet field” in this example corresponds to a magnetic field vector stored on the electronic device through a prior instance of the electronic device being used with the accessory device. 
     In step  706 , the electronic device reads the information from the accessory device. The electronic device may include a wireless communication circuit capable of reading the information from a corresponding wireless communication circuit of the accessory device. It should be noted that, in some instances, step  706  may only occur subsequent to the detection of a magnetic field vector matching the predetermined magnetic field vector, as described in step  704 . 
     The information provided to the electronic device may include several features related to the accessory device. For example, the information may include the material makeup of the accessory device. The material makeup of the accessory device may include some combination of leather, faux leather, microfiber, or silicone, as non-limiting examples. The material makeup of the accessory device may also include a magnetic assembly, including the size, shape, and location of the magnetic elements of the magnetic assembly, as well as the magnetic polarity of each of the magnetic elements. Additionally, the information may include dimensional information of the accessory device, such as the thickness of a back wall or bottom wall of the accessory device. 
     In step  708 , the control system is adjusted to operate based on a second temperature threshold, or second set point temperature, based on the information received from the accessory device. The second temperature threshold may be greater than the first temperature threshold. The electronic device can use the information related to, for example, the material makeup of the accessory device, and determine that a heat-generating operational component(s) of the electronic device can operate at a higher temperature (e.g., above the first temperature threshold), and thus generate additional thermal energy at the higher temperature. At least some of the generated thermal energy can be absorbed, dissipated, and/or redirected through one or more materials of the accessory device. In this manner, a user holding the accessory device with the electronic device disposed in the accessory device (see  FIG.  8   , for example) will not be injured through thermal energy exposure. Moreover, the dimensional information of the accessory device, when received by the electronic device, can be used to approximate an amount of thermal energy the accessory device can absorb, thereby contributing to a determination whether the user will be sufficiently shielded from thermal energy. 
     The control system can control a heat-generating operational component to operate based on a second temperature threshold in different ways. For example, the control system can allow the processing speed, or processing frequency, of a processor circuit to exceed, as compared to the (limited) frequency associated with the first temperature threshold. As another example, the control system may not initiate a shutdown event of a heat-generating operational component that exceeds a temperature above the first temperature threshold. In yet another example, the control system can increase the number of software applications running on a heat-generating operational component that includes a processor circuit. However, it should be noted that when one or more temperatures sensors determine the heat-generating operational components reach (or in some cases, exceed) the second temperature threshold, the control system can subsequently limit or prevent further operations of the heat-generating operational components. 
       FIGS.  11 - 17    show and describe alternate embodiments of accessory devices. Although not shown and described for each embodiments, the accessory devices shown and described in  FIGS.  11 - 17    may include several features described herein for accessory devices. 
       FIG.  11    illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment of an accessory device  800 , showing additional materials of accessory device  800 . Similar to prior embodiments, accessory device  800  may include a wall  802 , and sidewalls (sidewalls  804   a  and  804   c  shown) that extend from wall  802  to form a receptacle  806  for an electronic device (not shown in  FIG.  11   ). Additionally, accessory device  800  may include a magnetic assembly  808  and a wireless communication circuit  810 , which may include any features described herein for a magnetic assembly and a wireless communication circuit, respectively. 
     Accessory device  800  may further include a heat spreader  811 . As shown, heat spreader  811  is located in wall  802 . However, in some embodiments (not shown), heat spreader  811  extends into at least one of sidewalls  804   a  and  804   c . In some embodiments, heat spreader  811  includes a thermally conductive material, such as a metal (e.g., copper). In some embodiments, heat spreader  811  includes a thermally conductive non-metal material, such as graphite. In some embodiments, heat spreader  811  includes a phase change material (e.g., wax) capable of absorbing thermal energy from an electronic device by changing from a solid to a liquid. The type of heat spreader  811  integrated into accessory device  800  can be stored as information on wireless communication circuit  810  and subsequently transmitted to an electronic device in a manner previously described. 
       FIG.  12    illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an accessory device  900 , showing accessory device  900  having a case  922  and a cover  924 . As shown, accessory device  900  may include a wall  902 , also referred to as a back wall or bottom wall. Accessory device  900  may further include several sidewalls, including a sidewall  904   a , a sidewall  904   b , a sidewall  904   c  and a sidewall  904   d , each of which extend from wall  902 . Wall  902  and sidewalls  904   a ,  904   b ,  904   c , and  904   d  combine to define a receptacle  906 , or cavity or space, for an electronic device (not shown in  FIG.  12   ). Also, similar to prior embodiments, accessory device  900  may include a magnetic assembly  908  and a wireless communication circuit  910  that may include any features described herein for a magnetic assembly and a wireless communication circuit, respectively. 
     Cover  924  is designed to pivot/rotate relative to case  922 , based on a hinge  926  that is coupled with case  922  and cover  924 . Accordingly, hinge  926  allows relative movement between case  922  and cover  924 . Cover  924  may include a sleeve  928  that can store various personal items, such as credit cards or cash (as non-limiting examples). While accessory device  900  is in an open position in  FIG.  12   , cover  924  can rotate relative to, and be positioned on, case  922  in order conceal and protect an electronic device positioned in receptacle  906 , thereby placing the accessory device  900  in a closed position. 
       FIG.  13    illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an accessory device  1000 , showing accessory device  1000  with a battery  1030 . Similar to prior embodiments, accessory device  1000  may include a receptacle  1006 , defined by a wall  1002  and several sidewalls (not labeled). Further, accessory device includes battery  1030  stored in a compartment  1032 . Accessory device  1000  includes a connector  1034  designed to electrically couple with an electronic device (not shown in  FIG.  13   ) disposed in receptacle  1006 . In this manner, battery  1030  can be used to charge a battery of the electronic device, based in part on the electrical connected formed by connector  1034 . In some embodiments (not shown), accessory device  1000  includes one or more electrical contacts located on wall  1002 , with the electrical contacts designed to electrically couple to corresponding electrical contacts of an electronic device when the electronic device is positioned in receptacle  1006 . Also, similar to prior embodiments, accessory device  1000  may include a magnetic assembly  1008  and a wireless communication circuit  1010  that may include any features described herein for a magnetic assembly and a wireless communication circuit, respectively. 
     Wireless communication circuit  1010  may store information related not only to the material makeup of accessory device  1000 , but also a thickness  1014 , or length along the Z-axis. Thickness  1014  may include a combined thickness of wall  1002  and compartment  1032 . Moreover, wireless communication circuit  1010  may also store information related to battery  1030 . In this manner, wireless communication circuit  1010  can transmit this information to an electronic device, and the electronic can determine thermal characteristic of accessory device  1000 , which can be used to, for example, determine whether to alter a set point temperature by a control system of the electronic device. 
       FIG.  14    illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an accessory device  1100 , showing accessory device  1100  having multiple sleeves or pockets for various items. Accessory device  1100  is designed to carry and support an electronic device, as well as carry/hold a user&#39;s personal items, such as credit cards, hotel cards, cash, etc., as non-limiting examples. In this regard, accessory device  1100  may include multiple sections coupled together. For example, as shown in the enlarged view, accessory device  1100  includes a section  1102   a , a section  1102   b , and a section  1102   c . Sections  1102   a ,  1102   b , and  1102   c  may be referred to as a first section, a second section, and a third section, respectively. Additionally, sections  1102   a  and  1102   c  may be referred to as a front (or top) section and back (or rear or bottom) section, respectively, while section  1102   b  may be referred to as a middle section. Sections  1102   a ,  1102   b , and  1102   c  define pockets (or sleeves or cavities) for a user&#39;s personal items. For example, sections  1102   a  and  1102   b  define a pocket  1104   a  for a user&#39;s credit cards, cash, etc., while sections  1102   b  and  1102   c  define a pocket  1104   b  for an electronic device. Pockets  1104   a  and  1104   b  are shown as dotted lines. Also, similar to prior embodiments, accessory device  1100  may include a magnetic assembly  1108  and a wireless communication circuit  1110  (embedded in section  1102   c ) that may include any features described herein for a magnetic assembly and a wireless communication circuit, respectively. 
     Although an electronic device (not shown in  FIG.  14   ) may be substantially covered by accessory device  1100  when the electronic device is inserted into pocket  1104   b , accessory device  1100  is nonetheless designed to promote user interaction with the portable electronic device. For example, section  1102   a  may include an opening  1136   a  and an opening  1136   b . In some embodiments, opening  1136   a  renders a region of a display of the electronic device at least partially visible, and as a result, the display can present visual information viewable through opening  1136   a . In some embodiments, opening  1136   b  renders input and output mechanisms (e.g., camera(s), sensor(s), and/or audio speaker(s)) of the electronic device unobscured/unobstructed, and as a result, the electronic device can use the input and output mechanisms, based on opening  1136   b , while being positioned in accessory device  1100 . Wireless communication circuit  1110  may store information related not only to the material makeup of accessory device  1100 , but also the size, shape, and location of openings  1136   a  and  1136   b . In this manner, wireless communication circuit  1110  can transmit this information to an electronic device, and the electronic device can determine thermal characteristic of accessory device  1100 , which can be used to, for example, determine whether to alter a set point temperature by a control system of the electronic device. 
     Also, a strap  1138  may extend from accessory device  1100 . Strap  1138  is sized and shaped to fit around a user&#39;s appendage (e.g., wrist or forearm) thus providing another means for carrying accessory device  1100  by the user. In some embodiments, strap  1138  is permanently coupled with accessory device  1100 . In the embodiment shown in  FIG.  14   , strap  1138  can be removed from accessory device  1100 . 
       FIG.  15    illustrates a schematic diagram of an accessory device  1200  designed for application-specific purposes. Accessory device  1200  may include a structural embodiment described herein for an accessory device. As a non-limiting example, accessory device  1200  may take the form of accessory device  100  (shown in  FIG.  1   ). As shown, accessory device  1200  may include a magnetic assembly  1208  and a wireless communication circuit  1210  that may include any features described herein for a magnetic assembly and a wireless communication circuit, respectively. 
     Wireless communication circuit  1210  may further include information  1220  that can be read from, or transmitted by, wireless communication circuit  1210 . Information  1220  may include any information described herein for information on a wireless communication circuit. Additionally, information  1220  may further include application-specific information  1240 . Application-specific information  1240  may include characteristics and features such that, when transmitted to an electronic device, causes the electronic device to initiate a particular software application(s). In some embodiments, the particular software application(s) is otherwise inaccessible or unavailable to a user unless or until the electronic device receives application-specific information  1240 . Moreover, in some embodiments, application-specific information  1240  can initiate/enable or terminate/disable some hardware devices of the electronic device in order for the aforementioned initiated software to operate in a particular manner. 
     The following examples show and describe a variety of ways of utilizing application-specific information  1240 , and should not be construed as limiting. In some embodiments, accessory device  1200  is an aviation-based accessory device and application-specific information  1240 , when received by an electronic device, causes the electronic device to initiate a software application(s) related to aviation/flying. As a result, processing circuitry of the electronic device may signal a display of the electronic device to present a software application, such as a global positioning system (“GPS”) software application, a map software application, or an airport software application, as non-limiting examples. Additionally, the electronic device can determine, based on application-specific information  1240 , that the electronic device is being used during an aviation event, and subsequently adjust some hardware devices. For example, the electronic device may include a light sensor (e.g., light sensor  360  shown in  FIG.  5   ) used to detect light intensity incident on the display, and adjust the display brightness based upon the detected light intensity. 
     In another example, accessory device  1200  is an automotive-based accessory device and application-specific information  1240 , when received by an electronic device, causes the electronic device to initiate a software application(s) related to vehicles or driving. As a result, processing circuitry of the electronic device may signal a display of the electronic device to present a software application, such as a GPS software application or a map software application, as non-limiting examples. Additionally, the electronic device can determine, based on application-specific information  1240 , that the electronic device is being used while a user is driving, and subsequently adjust some hardware devices. For example, the electronic device can deactivate touch input capabilities of the display, thereby preventing the user from interacting with the display while driving for purposes of user safety. 
     In yet another example, accessory device  1200  is a home automation accessory device and application-specific information  1240 , when received by an electronic device, causes the electronic device to initiate a software application(s) related to controls of hardware within a household. As a result, processing circuitry of the electronic device may signal a display of the electronic device to present one or more software applications, such as a home lighting control software application, a garage control software application, one or more home appliance control software applications, and/or a home security software application, as non-limiting examples. Accordingly, the user is automatically provided with home-based software applications when the electronic device receives application-specific information  1240 . 
       FIG.  16    illustrates a plan view of an alternate embodiment of an accessory device  1300 , showing accessory device  1300  designed as a game controller. As shown, accessory device  1300  includes a housing  1302  having a receptacle  1306  designed to receive an electronic device (not shown in  FIG.  16   ). Also, accessory device  1300  may include a magnetic assembly  1308  and a wireless communication circuit  1310  that may include any features described herein for a magnetic assembly and a wireless communication circuit, respectively. Although not shown, accessory device  1300  may include a connector or electrical contacts (in a location corresponding to receptacle  1306 ) designed to electrically couple with the electronic device. 
     Accessory device  1300 , as a game controller, includes a controller  1341  and buttons  1342   a  and  1342   b , all of which are designed to provide a gaming control/input to the electronic device while a user interacts with the electronic device via accessory device  1300 . In some embodiments, the electronic device can detect a magnetic field vector from magnetic assembly  1308  to authenticate accessory device  1300 , and wireless communication circuit  1310  can subsequently provide information to the electronic device related to accessory device  1300 . The information may be related to the material makeup of accessory device  1300 , which can be used by the electronic device to, for example, alter a set point temperature. Alternatively, or in combination, the information stored on wireless communication circuit  1310  may include application-specific information, and accordingly, accessory device  1300  may cause the electronic device to present one or more gaming software applications on a display of the electronic device. 
       FIG.  17    illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an accessory device  1400  designed for a laptop computing device. As shown, accessory device  1400  includes a housing  1402  having a receptacle  1406  designed to receive an electronic device  1450 , representing a laptop computing device including features such as a display housing  1452  that carries a display  1456 , and a base portion  1454  (rotationally coupled to display housing  1452 ) that carries a trackpad  1458  and a keyboard  1460 . Also, accessory device  1400  may include a magnetic assembly  1408  and a wireless communication circuit  1410  that may include any features described herein for a magnetic assembly and a wireless communication circuit, respectively. 
     Similar to prior embodiments, electronic device  1450  can detect a magnetic field vector from magnetic assembly  1408  to authenticate accessory device  1400 , and wireless communication circuit  1410  can subsequently provide information to electronic device  1450  related to accessory device  1400 . The information may be related to the material makeup of accessory device  1400 . Additionally, the information provided to electronic device  1450  may indicate accessory device  1400  includes a cooling mechanism, such as a fan  1413 . Based in part upon features such as fan  1413  and/or material makeup of accessory device  1400 , electronic device  1450  may alter an operation, such as adjusting (e.g., increasing) a set point temperature, thereby allowing one or more heat-generating operational components of electronic device  1450  to run at higher temperatures, i.e., generate additional thermal energy. 
       FIGS.  18  and  19    show and described alternate forms of accessory devices, in the form of wireless (inductive) charging devices.  FIG.  18    illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an accessory device  1500  in the form of a charging mat. As shown, accessory device  1500  includes a mat  1502 . Mat  1502  can carry a magnetic assembly  1508  and a wireless communication circuit  1510  that may include any features described herein for a magnetic assembly and a wireless communication circuit, respectively. Accessory device  1500  may further include an inductive charging transmitter coil  1513  and a cable  1515  designed to connect to a power source (not shown in  FIG.  18   ), and provide power to inductive charging transmitter coil  1513 . 
     Accessory device  1500 , as a charging mat, can receive a device (e.g., smartphone, laptop, headphones, wireless earbuds, smartwatch, digital stylus, etc.) on mat  1502  and subsequently charge the electronic device through wireless charging using inductive charging transmitter coil  1513 . When placed on mat  1502 , the electronic device can authenticate accessory device  1500  through detection of a magnetic field vector from magnetic assembly  1508 , and subsequently read information from wireless communication circuit  1510 . The information from wireless communication circuit  1510  can be used to, for example, adjust the impedance of an inductive charging receiver coil, thereby increasing the efficiency of a wireless charging event provided by accessory device  1500 . 
       FIG.  19    illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an accessory device  1600  in the form of a charging module. As shown, accessory device  1600  includes a platform  1602 . Platform  1602  can carry a magnetic assembly  1608  and a wireless communication circuit  1610  that may include any features described herein for a magnetic assembly and a wireless communication circuit, respectively. Accessory device  1600  may further include an inductive charging transmitter coil  1613  and a cable  1615  designed to connect to a power source (not shown in  FIG.  19   ), and provide power to inductive charging transmitter coil  1613 . 
     Accessory device  1600 , as a charging module, can receive a device (e.g., smartphone, headphones, wireless earbuds, smartwatch, digital stylus, etc.) on platform  1602  and subsequently charge the electronic device through wireless charging using inductive charging transmitter coil  1613 . When placed on platform  1602 , the electronic device can authenticate accessory device  1600  through detection of a magnetic field vector from magnetic assembly  1608 , and subsequently read information from wireless communication circuit  1610 . The information from wireless communication circuit  1610  can be used to, for example, adjust the impedance of an inductive charging receiver coil, thereby increasing the efficiency of a wireless charging event provided by accessory device  1600 . 
     The various aspects, embodiments, implementations or features of the described embodiments can be used separately or in any combination. Various aspects of the described embodiments can be implemented by software, hardware or a combination of hardware and software. The described embodiments can also be embodied as computer readable code on a non-transitory computer readable medium. The non-transitory computer readable medium is any data storage device that can store data which can thereafter be read by a computer system. Examples of the non-transitory computer readable medium include read-only memory, random-access memory, CD-ROMs, HDDs, DVDs, magnetic tape, and optical data storage devices. The non-transitory computer readable medium can also be distributed over network-coupled computer systems so that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion. 
     The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the described embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. 
     It is well understood that the use of personally identifiable information should follow privacy policies and practices that are generally recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or governmental requirements for maintaining the privacy of users. In particular, personally identifiable information data should be managed and handled so as to minimize risks of unintentional or unauthorized access or use, and the nature of authorized use should be clearly indicated to users.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20210125
Publication Date: 20231226
Grant Date: 20231226
Priority Date: 20201009
Inventors: KALYANASUNDARAM, NAGARAJAN
DINH, RICHARD HUNG MINH
HERESZTYN, AMAURY J.
LIANG, FRANK F.
SCHOOLEY, STEPHEN T.
ZHANG, LIAN
DICARLO, DEREK J.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H05K5/0217", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G05B15/02", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G08C17/04", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H02J50/10", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K7/20", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G08C17/04", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K5/0217", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04B1/3888", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H02J50/10", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H02J7/02", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04B1/036", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04B1/3888", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H02J50/10", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G08C17/04", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K7/20", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H02J50/10", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G05B15/02", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04B5/24", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04B5/72", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04B5/79", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 80818286