“On May 01, 2014, the US Patent & Trademark Office published a patent application from Apple that reveals a new docking station concept that is designed to incorporate a more durable and self-retracting connector that can accommodate iDevices small and large,” Jack Purcher reports for Patently Apple.
“Manufacturers provide docking stations (docks) in which a user can dock a device. Often the docks will have a connector rising out from an opening, with the connector being in a position such that the device can be viewed and/or used when connected,” Purcher reports. “However, connectors can be weak points, especially when devices become large like the iPad and additional stresses are placed on the connector. The connector may also provide most of the support for the device. Accordingly, the connectors of such docking stations can be damaged by misuse, e.g. being pulled in an improper direction.”
Purcher reports, “Apple invents a docking station for an electronic device having a durable self-retracting connector. Some embodiments allow a plug connector to move while connected to a portable electronic device. This movement of the connector can absorb undesirable forces, thereby reducing the likelihood of the connector breaking from misuse.”
Read more, and see Apple’s patent application illustrations, in the full article here.
I like the idea but I’d rather have wireless charging solution which Apple has patented. When will we kill the wire.
Is it easier to dock an iPad with Lightning? I have the 30 pin connector and it’s a hassle some times to connect quickly.
It’s a bazillion times easier with Lightning. You can easily do it one handed without looking.
I just wish Apple would license the female port for devices made for the iPhone so we could use Lightning cables on Mophie battery cases instead of MicroUSB (which are just evil).
How can they patent that?
I’ve had an extending/retracting connector in my docking station for as long as I can remember.
I asked my 97 year old mother if my dad had one of those too.
She just smiled.
Magsafe for iDevices – reversible, power, & data. Can be a cable or connector in a dock / slot.
Mike,
Much easier. I, like you, asked the same question before I upgraded my iP4 to the 5S.