Apple has been granted a patent that could mean an official native instant messenger application is finally coming to the popular iPhone media device.
Apple applied for the patent after the launch of the iPhone in the summer of 2007 but it was only until recently that the U.S. Patent Office approved it. The patent describes “a new instant messaging interface for touchscreen devices that lets you manipulate chat conversations in real time by editing old chats.” The patent also speaks about allowing users embedding videos and images, something you cannot currently do with the iPhone. What is not clear however is if the patent will be a revised SMS application or a brand new IM application.
Apple has already showed off that AOL’s AIM messenger program can be used on the phone and many users eagerly wait the addition of MMS and IM applications.
We will keep you updated on the reach of this patent as more information becomes available.
Result for: real time
Sony Computer Entertainment said this morning that the oft-delayed PlayStation Home community online service was to be delayed again, marking the third official delay since the service was announced.
The service was initially announced in July 2007 and promised to “provide users with the ability to create their own avatars and participate in a real-time virtual world,” something like the popular Second Life community. At that announcement, Sony said it would be available in the fall of 2007 but then delayed it until spring of this year.
With the latest delay however comes the ability for more users to join a closed beta test. The full public beta will hit in “fall” of this year barring any other delays.
“We understand that we are asking PS3 and prospective PS3 users to wait a bit longer, but we have come to the conclusion that we need more time to refine the service to ensure a more focused gaming entertainment experience than what it is today,” said Kazuo Hirai, president of Sony Computer Entertainment, in a statement.
