Slashdot Mirror
Apple Developing Wireless Charging For Mobile Devices (thestack.com)
An anonymous reader writes: Apple is currently working with partners in the US and Asia to develop wireless charging for iPhone and iPad. Mobile devices with wireless charging capabilities could be released as soon as next year. Apple has not released the specific details on the range that could be available, but as far back as 2010, Apple applied for a patent to use an iMac as a wireless charging hub for distances of 1 meter. In 2014 it applied for a patent on specialized housing for a mobile device with an integrated RF antenna, which would also allow for wireless charging by helping to eliminate the problem of metallic interference with charging signals. Apple would apparently be building on these ideas to create a new iPhone or iPad that could charge further away from the hub, while continuing to be used.
That's one thing that's bugging me with all these wireless charging ideas. I don't care which company makes it, wasting energy for the sake of not having to connect a wire is the perfect example of "First world problem".
Engineers: Hey everyone, we figured out a way to save 5% of our energy!
Tech companies: Great, because all our new devices waste over 50% of the energy they use every day!
Well, Tesla's dead. That's all the proof I need.
It would be extremely shortsighted for apple to make it an iMac exclusive. Although I wouldn't put it past them.
Hoping it lives up to the hype. It's 2016 and everyone seems to have "hover boards" that neither hover or resemble boards. Lets not make the same mistake with wireless charging. Just say no to pad type.
Minimum threshold fixed. Thanks!
Apple is looking on a new technology for distance charging of a wireless device – rather than placing the phone on a charging mat, a customer can actually walk around with the device, using it while it charges.
Are there any phones on the market that can do this?
Obligatory XKCD
Definitely get a pair of wireless headphones - no more cables for the dog to trip over, or to get pulled out when there's a sudden emergency downstairs. But the only problem is charging via USB.
Vintage computer adverts: http://www.vintageadbrowser.com/computers-and-software-ads
sure its been done, but just like micro USB, you cant expect apple to use those common technologies. they have to have their own!!!
have you seen my sig? there are many others like it but none that are the same
The difference here is that Apple's purported solution requires no physical contact with the device. No mat, no pad, just use your device anywhere within the range of the charger and it'll charge wirelessly, over-the-air.
They certainly didn't invent it, and it isn't innovative at this point, but if they're the first ones to put it into widespread use, they'll likely reap a lot of well-deserved credit in the media.