On July 11, the latest list published by the USPTO shows that Apple has received a new communication patent. This patent allows users to conduct voice group chats through nearby devices such as iPhones and AirPods without needing Wi-Fi or cellular networks. The technology is seen as a voice version of "AirDrop," enabling direct communication between devices.

Specifically, the new patent's principle is similar to the "Walkie-Talkie" feature of the Apple Watch but extends to group instant messaging, upgrading from personal to group communication. Unlike the "Walkie-Talkie" feature, which relies on Apple's cloud servers and can sometimes be unreliable, this new feature doesn't require round-trip cloud server interactions, allowing nearby individuals who wish to communicate to talk to each other simultaneously.

This means that as long as you have an iPhone in your pocket, you can seamlessly talk to one or more selected people. This functionality, similar to AirDrop but for voice communication, doesn't need a network connection or cloud transfer; instead, it shares voice data directly. The proposed technology enables one-to-many connections, allowing all group members to communicate with each other simultaneously.

For example, users could discuss where to meet in a crowded area, with iPhones displaying the location, current distance, and navigation directions of other group members, enhancing group communication. This innovation allows nearby iPhone, AirPods, and other Apple device users to engage in voice chats without relying on Wi-Fi or cellular networks, further enhancing the interactive experience between devices.