Systems, apparatus, and methods for controlling an operating state of an electronic apparatus to a lock state

This invention describes a system that automatically locks an electronic device, such as a phone or computer. It works by continuously checking the strength of a wireless signal from a connected external device, like a smartwatch. If the signal strength changes significantly compared to an initial measurement, suggesting the external device is moving away, the electronic device locks itself. The claims further specify that this locking action can be linked to a user's login process or triggered by detecting a person approaching the device.

Why it matters: Filed before widespread adoption of precise proximity technologies like UWB, which can provide more reliable distance measurements than traditional signal strength indicators. The increased integration of such technologies into consumer devices since 2020 makes this proximity-based locking mechanism more robust and practical.

Status: ExpiredProtection ended and was never renewed
How hard to build: ModerateWireless signal detection, software logic, OS integration, sensors.

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