Hybrid magnet for retarding haptic applications using active friction braking

This invention describes a method for providing a haptic feedback to a user of a wireless portable device (e.g., a gaming device or a mobile terminal or phone) utilizing a hybrid magnet controlling a friction brake based haptic actuator. This novel hybrid magnet actuator uses a displacement of a permanent magnet assembly relative to a magnet yoke to actively control the friction between the magnetic yoke and an anchor plate made from a magnetic material. This permanent magnet assembly displacement is achieved by using a coil incorporated within said the magnet yoke by applying an electric current of a predetermined direction and/or a predetermined pulse width or repetition rate to the coil.