Apple patent offers automatic volume controls

A patent filed yesterday from Apple shows off a possible option for dynamic sound control on Macintosh computers and, potentially, the iPod/iPhone ranges. The patent suggests the device is fitted with an ambient sound sensor to detect sound around the user and alter the volume as necessary. So, a loud environment would increase your music to an audible (not dangerous) level, while being in a quiet environment would lower the volume to a comfortable level. Although the end user would still have ultimate control over volume, the system would use set ranges to extend between, always keeping your music sounding at a constant level whatever is happening around you.