Apple files patent for 'iBike'

Apple Inc., the maker of the iPad and the iPhone, may have an iBike in the works, if a recently published patent application is any indication.

According to application 20100198453, published Aug. 5 in the database of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, Apple is seeking a patent on a system and method for integrating a portable electronic device with a bicycle.

The technology covered by the patent can be used with devices other than those made by the Cupertino-based company. According to the application, suitable electronic devices would include Research in Motion Ltd.'s BlackBerry or T-Mobile USA Inc.'s Sidekick, in addition to Apple's iPhone, or a video recorder, domestic appliance, or medical device.

Devices enabled with this technology can provide riders with operative data such as riding characteristics, or global positioning information. The devices could also display information received from other cyclists, such as members of a cycling team participating in a race, according to the patent. It could also be used to transmit voice, text or video messages.

The information is displayed on a device that can be attached to handlebars, coupled to the user's wrist or arm or placed in a pouch or even permanently embedded in a bicycle.

Apple applied for the patent in February 2009, with the assistance of New York's Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP.