Is a New Magsafe Data Cable Going To Replace Apple's 30-Pin Connector?


Using "coded magnets" the cable described in the patent can simultanoeuly charge a device and shift information, too. According to Apple Insider:



"The magnets (would) create a universal port that detects the coded magnet 'signature' of a particular cable type and reconfigures itself accordingly," the filing reads.

The patent also suggests that the cable could handle audio. While that's not terribly exciting — and might be a real headache in terms of using third-party headphones — it does have one thing in its favor. If the only port on an iOS device was a Magsafe connection, it would be possible to compoletely seal the device. Anybody for a waterproof iPhone?

Whether much will come of the patent is up for debate. Moving to an entirely different connection for all iOS devices would create some fairly irritating legacy issues, but maybe the benefits would be worth it. [Apple Insider; Image: Travis Isaacs]