Google is working on a new feature called ‘Connected Flight’. It is being designed for Android devices exclusively. Android Authority reported that after the recent discovery of a patent online, this information came to light.
Implementation
Once implemented, the feature would work on different Android devices. The feature intends to detect automatically when a user is on an aircraft and shall immediately switch the smartphone, laptop, or tablet to Airplane mode. The device would get back to normal mode automatically upon landing.
The ‘Connected Flight’ feature would support Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections in all probability. Additionally, it should be able to adapt to Wi-Fi settings aligning with the airplane’s specific requirements.
The feature would be able to evaluate different conditions as well. For instance, it can assess low battery levels, subpar network quality, etc. On the occasion of such incidents, the feature may temporarily disconnect from the network.
Different potential triggers would be employed by the ‘Connected Flight’ mode to ensure accurate detection. For instance, the feature would analyze pressure changes, identify the aircraft’s Wi-Fi signal if present, capture ultrasonic signals, monitor the booking activity of the user for air travel, etc.
Patent
The patent states that the method was initiated “in response to having determined that the sensor has detected information indicating that the mobile computing device is located on the airplane.”
Currently, the patent gives a preview into the ongoing research of Google. To see the feature in action, we need to wait for it to release worldwide officially. There is no information on when the ‘Connected Flight’ feature would be introduced.
Nonetheless, the option to enjoy great convenience and uninterrupted connectivity throughout air travel would surely interest Android users.
