A while back we reported on a patent by Apple that seemed to suggest that the Cupertino company had an idea of using MagSafe chargers for iOS devices. While it is a good idea, it should be noted that the current 30-pin dock connector is not only used for charging iOS devices, but also for data transfer between the device and the computer, but a recent patent by Apple has revealed that the company has thought about that and could be exploring MagSafe chargers with “coded magnets”.
These “coded magnets” will not only act as a charger for the iOS device, but could possibly allow for data transfer as well. The reasoning behind such an innovation is because Apple is attempting to seal up an iOS device complete, which the 30-pin dock connector currently does not allow. By sealing up the device completely, it could protect it from water damage.
The sealing of the device has also gone on to cover the headphone connecter ports, suggesting a similar “coded magnet” to be used by headphone cables instead, thus completely sealing the device from its headphone port to its dock connector. The patent also goes on to note that typically the male half of a data/power cable usually has its pins or prongs exposed, which could ultimately lead to damage thus rendering the cable unusable.
It is a pretty interesting patent and while we can appreciate not tripping over the cables of our iOS devices, we’re not sure how many audio companies are willing to jump on board and start producing coded magnet cables for their headphones and audio products.
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