It may not be news that will appease disgruntled iPhone 5 owners immediately, but it looks like Apple could be working hard on a solution that could potentially lay to rest the issues surrounding accessory compatibility with iOS devices that are built with the company’s new Lightning port embedded within. The launch of the iPhone 5 didn’t throw up any surprises in relation to the smaller dock connector port, mainly due to the fact that we had already seen multiple reports of the change but that didn’t mean it was any less controversial.
A large section of consumers have felt they are being forced to shell out an additional $29 to Apple for an adaptor that makes their existing device accessories compatible with the iPhone 5 or any other device that includes the Lighting port going forward. Over time, those accessories will obviously be updated to work with the new hardware without requiring an adapter, but that rollout will take time. Apple is reportedly working on their own solution to the problem that involves transmitting data wirelessly to any accessory.
The Cupertino-based company has been granted a patent that was originally filed twelve months ago in September 2011. The patent outlines a universal adapter that allows data to be be transmitted wirelessly to any accessory through the use of a built-in wireless transmitter. It looks as though Apple believes that this patented technology could solve the issues being faced by consumers by replacing internal circuitry on the current adapter with components that can translate signals to one that is understood by whatever accessory is in use.
As part of the patent filing, Apple has raised the issues surrounding the multiple different types of mobile devices being available on the market today, as well as the plethora of accessories that accompany them, ranging from a simple speaker system to more complex high-end arrangements. The company ‘s 8,280,465 Patent Number builds on previous filings from the days of the iPhone 3G and shows that this kind of solution has been in the back of their minds for quite some time. As well as possibly negating the need to buy individual items to suit each portable device, it looks like disgruntled owners of the iPhone 5 may have some light at the end of their tunnel.
(via AppleInsider)
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