Apple Files HDR Imaging Patent Application

[dotaloc]

I can kinda see how this warrants a patent. All HDR tech I've used is based on image input. I take two (ideally, more) .jpeg images and, using software, create an HDR one. This is more like combining two raw photos (which can probably already be done) or two differently processed results from one raw image. In the least, it could produce higher quality HDR images than using .jpeg images since compression is only performed once -- the ones read from the sensor are likely uncompressed.

As long as the patent clearly states that this concerns how the HDR image is created (from 1 read of the sensor), and not to HDR in general so that other apps would be in danger.

Still, I think prior art shoudl prevent this from going through since it is so close to processing multiple raw/uncompressed photos into one HDR.

 

[N0Spin]

Just like Apple to 'innovate' by making a minor twist of some very well-established prior art, and then patent their 'game-changing new and improved idea'.

From what I remember, long before DSLRs were mainstream, I believe Fuji created the first sensor specifically designed to natively support single shot HDR photography.

[Fuji actually played with the structural layout of the photosites on their imaging chips.]

I cannot find the original article, but I remember that it was revolutionary concept, and though the 1st generation cameras had to make some serious compromises to offer this ability (ie. a lower resolution - when that actually mattered), I remember thinking that given a couple evolutions in process/technology that this would be simply amazing.

I believe that the results of Apple's 'new' process by their very nature would be completely inferior.

What a fail, first because Apple is based on that (like patenting a rounded corner, duh - hand-sized cellphone shape), second because the US patent system allows them to do it, and third because the public thinks they're amazing and that they actually 'originated all these concepts'.

What passes for original art.....uggh.