Apple’s Next Innovation: Wireless Charging

What’s the Latest Development?

A new patent application filed by Apple called ‘Using an Audio Cable as an Inductive Charging Coil’ demonstrates the company’s intent to innovate in the area of wireless charging. “The first concept involves an oddly designed charging tower. Apple envisions a user wrapping their earphone cables around this charging tower and placing a new conductive metal mesh earphone on the media device to begin the charging process.” Critics are more interested in the second system which involves an acoustic charging mechanism sans charging tower. 

What’s the Big Idea?

Apple is looking for a wireless charging device that suits all portable Apple products; Apple customers are looking for it, too. But perhaps more interesting than its wireless charging tower is its acquisition of a startup company called WiTricity, which uses technology based on M.I.T. research. By tuning a device already anchored to a wall socket, for example a P.C., to the same magnetic field as other devices in the room, substantial amounts of power could be safely transferred to any electronic device in the vicinity.