Why does this matter to us? Well, the infrared technology could be used to disable the phone camera during concerts, preventing attendees from taking photos and filming. Check out an illustration from the patent below, that shows a band performing on stage and an phone with the notification "recording disabled" on its screen.

 

The patent apparently can detect visible light along with infrared signals. On one hand, the sophisticated technology could be used to learn more about an object in front of the phone camera, such as an exhibit at a museum. On the other, it could be used to disable the camera's recording functions.

 

Obviously, Apple files for patents all the time, and many never reach the market. However, recording industries might be particularly interested in this one, since it could prevent concert piracy.

 

Pitchfork noted that the New York Times said, in 2011, "The recording industry could easily use this technology to disable a camera during a music concert by blasting an infrared signal from the stage and in turn disabling an iPhone from recording the concert..."

 

The article continues, "...for purposes of sharing it online, violating copyright laws.”