Apple CEO Tim Cook Departs The Stage Following His Keynote Address
Apple CEO Tim Cook departs the stage following his keynote address at the Worldwide Developers Conference in San Francisco, California, June 2, 2014. Reuters

Apple did not just acquire Beats on a whim. The worth of acquisition including recent patent sighting supports Apple's plans on delivering a whole new audio experience for users. According to recent information, the company has been working on developing headphones or earbuds that can detect if a user's ear is near. The device can play audio automatically depending on the proximity of the earphones or headphones.

According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, Dr. Dre will be working on the music division and hardware in Apple. The company has been focusing its efforts on bringing back cutting edge music or audio experience ushered in by the original iPod. Apple will also be devoting its marketing muscle to broaden the reach of Beats' subscription streaming and electronics business. The report suggested that Apple wants to create a brand name under Beats and strengthen it alongside the company's own.

As if to support the acquisition, Apple gained a new patent grant on audio devices. According to the parent published under the US Patent and Trademark Office, Apple has been working on devices like earbuds featuring a wide set of sensors. The sensors can detect a range of data including pressure, temperature, acoustics and capacitive. Apple's invention allows the device to detect of the person's ear or head is in close proximity to hear audio.

The patent is entitled "Electronic Devices and Accessories with Media Streaming Control Features." It describes a process where devices no longer require user interaction to manage audio files. Presently, users have to input if they want to play or stop an audio file. They also have to attach and disconnect their earphones or headphones every time they want to hear music. Apple's invention takes advantage of "ear presence" sensors. Devices can stop or play music once the person puts on or takes off the earbuds or headphones.

With the release of the iPhone 6 and iPad Air 2 in few months, the patent may find its way to these upcoming devices or not like previous patent grants. Apple has yet to release an official announcement about the matter.