Abstract

This document describes techniques that enable a computing device (e.g., a smart watch, ring, glasses, etc.) to more efficiently transition between multiple user modes, such as an adult mode and a child mode. Using a single system image including applications installed on the computing device for every user mode may lead to system image bloat, diminished performance and power inefficiency. Alternatively, creating separate stock keeping units (SKUs) for each user mode may introduce manufacturing and inventory complexities. Instead, the device may divide the device's storage and the applications corresponding to each user mode into three partitions. The first partition may contain code for a first user mode (e.g., adult mode) and code to set up the device for either user mode. The second partition may contain code for a second user mode (e.g., child mode). The third partition may be empty by default. After device setup, the third partition may mimic either the first or second partition, depending on the user mode selected. When the applications installed on the device require a software update, the device may update only the applications included in partitions corresponding to the active user mode. This technique may reduce update size and overhead. When the device undergoes a factory reset, the setup process may simply begin from the first partition again. Described techniques may improve the user experience, mitigate system image bloat and avoid the need for separate SKUs for each user mode.

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

Download

Share

COinS