Back in 2018, Apple registered a patent according to which the left and right channels of the on-ear headphones can be swapped depending on the position in which they are used. The new patent represents a further development of this technology. It offers more accurate tracking of the device’s position in space, making headphone use with touch controls much more comfortable.

The new development solves the problem of implementing gesture control in case of changing the tilt of the headphones on the head. The patent describes how scroll-based controls can work. So, for example, a gesture directed perpendicular to the ground will be recognized the same for any tilt of the headphone bow. This can be achieved by using a combination of capacitive and optical sensors that determine the position of the device in space and on the user’s head. As soon as the position of the headphones in space changes, the controls will automatically adjust to their new position.

Of course, the information from the patent cannot guarantee that the technology described in it will be used in a real product. However, it is likely to appear in the final device.

As for Apple’s on-ear headphones themselves, it is expected that the company will release them in two variations. Users will be able to choose between premium and lightweight sports models. The earbuds were initially expected to be released in the fall, but the coronavirus crisis may have affected the company’s plans.