Apple patents fuel technology rumors

CUPERTINO, Calif., Dec. 29 (UPI) -- A series of patents by the U.S. computer giant Apple Inc. has led to speculation about new technology that may soon become available.

While there's no official word of what the patents were related to, recent rumors had Apple offering wireless services through its iPhones capable of pre-ordering beverages at Starbucks, The San Francisco Chronicle said Saturday.

Other developments from Apple, including improved scroll-wheel technology, were said to be part of the December patent filings.

Meanwhile, Apple ranked high in customer satisfaction this holiday season, a recent ForeSee Results survey said.

The California-based company joined Netflix, Amazon.com, QVC and L.L. Bean as the top companies used during the busy shopping season.

The Chronicle said the worst ranked companies in the survey included Sears, OfficeMax and CompUSA.