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Apple snags patent for USB 3.0, Thunderbolt dock connector

Apple has been granted a patent for a dock connector that would combine powerful new connectivity technology like USB 3.0 and Thunderbolt with its proprietary 30-pin connector for mobile devices like iPads, iPhones, and iPods.

Joe Aimonetti MacFixIt Editor
Joe is a seasoned Mac veteran with years of experience on the platform. He reports on Macs, iPods, iPhones and anything else Apple sells. He even has worked in Apple retail stores. He's also a creative professional who knows how to use a Mac to get the job done.
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Joe Aimonetti

Is this the future of dock connectors? Apple

Apple has been granted a patent for a dock connector that would combine powerful new connectivity technology like USB 3.0 and Thunderbolt with its proprietary 30-pin connector for mobile devices like iPads, iPhones, and iPods.

As reported by AppleInsider, "The invention, entitled 'Reduced Size Multi-Pin Male Plug Connector,' was published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on Tuesday and describes a smaller 30-pin dock connector with updated connection standards."

Apple

The dock connector could also support regular DisplayPort technology, currently found in many Apple notebooks. Combined with the recent filing for a power adapter with a built-in battery, Apple seems to be streamlining the amount of cabling needed for their products.

Patents like these bode well for products like the iPad that some think may become the only computer used by many consumers. Is the consolidating of cables good for your Apple experience? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!

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