Could a Wireless Inductive Charger be on the Way From Apple?

[Maura]

MacDailyNews reports on a couple of interesting developments that could indicate that Apple has plans in the iOS dock line. Although they note that Phil Schiller poured cold water on the idea of Apple marketing a wireless inductive charger any time soon, MacDailyNews points out that there are a couple of signs that point to the possibility. For starters, there’s the curious matter of the iPhone 5 guide mentioning an iPhone Dock, as pictured above, despite the fact that Schiller has said via email that Apple does not have any plans for an iPhone 5 dock. Why mention it in the guide then? Or is it just a printing error? Of course even if Apple does turn out to be secretly planning to release an iPhone 5 dock, it doesn’t mean that it’s a wireless inductive charging one. However, MacDailyNews has also unearthed a patent application from Apple that shows that Apple has at least been trying out designs for a wireless inductive charging dock, on which you’d be able to charge multiple devices at once. Only question is, will it be here sooner rather than later, if at all?

Many thanks to forum Super Moderator Thomasjtsi for the heads up on this story.

Source: Apple’s iPhone 5 User Guide refers to ‘iPhone Dock’ while new patent application reveals wireless inductive charging dock – MacDailyNews - Welcome Home
Apple Reveals In-Depth Inductive Charging Dock - Patently Apple

 

[Thomasjtsi]

Just another layer of secrecy added to Apple's already questionable shenanigans!! I'm not overly concerned about the idea of a "dock" or "inductive charging" system. Does make for good news though...

 

[thewitt]

Apples holds thousands of patents, many of which have never surfaced in a product...