WO2022189140A1, filed by Elliptic Laboratories AS

This invention introduces a secure and intuitive method for granting access between digital devices based on physical proximity. Using ultrasonic signals, the system confirms that two devices—such as a smartphone and a laptop—are physically close before enabling a connection or allowing data to be shared.

The core idea is to use ultrasound for proximity verification. Because ultrasonic signals do not travel through walls and are hard to spoof remotely, this offers a reliable way to confirm that the user is present. In practice, it enables seamless and secure device-to-device interactions, such as file sharing, authentication, or session handover, with a simple gesture or tap-like motion.

The patent includes several technical approaches, including one-way and two-way ultrasonic exchanges, and even gesture detection based on Doppler shifts. These methods ensure that actions are triggered only when there is both proximity and intent.

This innovation has been commercially implemented through a partnership with Lenovo, enabling “tap-to-connect” functionality in select Lenovo devices. This feature is described as “true device-to-device interoperability with a simple tap,” and was announced in 2022 as a key AI-powered capability of Elliptic Labs’ platform.