According to a Bloomberg report made earlier today, Cupertino is working with suppliers in the States and Asia to innovate charging of devices. The report claims that Apple is in search for the “holy grail” of wireless charging and it might arrive as early as next year.
Cutting-edge technology (as quoted from Bloomberg) would put their devices in a whole new playing field. To put it in perspective, other smartphone makers already have developed and released wireless charging mats but that’s what they are – mats. You need to physically place them on these “stations” in order to get them juiced.
Apparently they want to allow charging in mid-air (like this company hopes to) and wants to remove the “physicality” associated with wireless charging of today. But they’ll have to deal with the charging efficiency issues that comes with charging a device further way from its charging station.
The British news outlet highlights that Apple has registered numerous patents that explore the concept of “true” wireless charging. One of which is making an iMac a wireless charging hub with the device that needs some power needing to be within 1 meter – utilising NFC to do so.
If Apple does do this, it’ll allow them to do away with ports altogether, making that rumour of ditching the headphone jack all the more promising. Obviously, that lighting cable has to be there but what if it didn’t?
Chances are Jony Ive and Co will maintain the charging port to make way for a lighting cable audio jack but with wireless charging possible, the Verge dutifully points out that you’ll be able to listen to music while wirelessly charging your smartphone.
Bloomberg reached out to Apple reps but received no feedback.
True or unlikely? Tell us what you think in the comments below.