SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR LOCATING WIRELESS ACCESSORIES

Smart overview of the Invention

The described system and method offer a solution for locating wireless accessories that cannot connect to a wide area network. Utilizing a data processing system, the method involves loading a user interface on an electronic device, which facilitates determining the location of a wireless accessory associated with it. The system generates public keys broadcast by the accessory, sends them to a server, and retrieves corresponding data to decrypt and process location information.

Technical Field

This invention pertains to locating wireless devices and accessories, specifically through crowdsourcing methods. It addresses the challenge faced by accessories like earbuds and smartwatches that lack inherent location capabilities and cannot communicate with remote tracking services over wide area networks.

Background

Traditional security features in devices allow users to identify their location when lost or stolen, provided they have positioning technology. However, many wireless accessories communicate via peer-to-peer connections with devices but cannot determine or report their location independently. This limitation prevents them from being tracked when misplaced.

Methodology

The system employs a method where an electronic device performs a beacon scan using its baseband processor while in low power mode. It receives beacon data identifying the accessory, stores timestamps, and encrypts location data using the beacon identifier. This encrypted data is then sent to a server for storage and later retrieval by devices associated with the accessory.

Implementation

The network operating environment includes mobile devices capable of communicating over various networks. These devices can perform data communication tasks such as making calls and retrieving documents over cellular or Wi-Fi networks. The described system enables these devices to establish peer-to-peer connections for data synchronization and accessory tracking.