Methods and apparatus for a self-configuring smart modular wireless device

Abstract

A smart modular wireless device is divided into two main parts—the cartridge contains wireless components and the shell contains non-wireless components. Software applications on the shell may register for various wireless services, and then configure themselves based on the services supported by the cartridge. Once connected to the shell, the cartridge may download software to the shell that may replace or upgrade the software already in the shell. The cartridge and shell may exchange information to synchronize user data or exchange subscriber information. The shell may be locked so that only approved cartridges can be used with the shell. The cartridge may be locked from unauthorized use. The cartridge and shell may support a protocol that enables the user to enter information a specific cartridge needs to operate. The protocol may also enable the cartridge to communicate notices and messages to the user that are specific to the characteristics the cartridge. Thus a smart modular wireless device can maintain flexibility with air-interface standards and configure its operation according to the type of cartridge inserted.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.