Skip to main content

Apple looks towards versatility with new MagSafe-like stackable connector patent

Apple may not abandon the MagSafe connector after all if a newly published patent is to be believed. The patent, published Tuesday, calls for a stackable magnetic connector that would also allow for multiple peripherals to be attached to the same magnetic port.

The news comes as some comfort to fans of Apple’s MagSafe connectors. The technology disappeared from the redesigned MacBook in 2015, leading some to speculate that Apple was moving away from MagSafe, and perhaps toward something new.

Recommended Videos

It’s hard to know what Apple has in mind, but we can speculate. The effort could be part of a bigger move by the company to reduce the number of connection ports for its devices. Rumors of the headphone jack’s demise in the next iPhone got the Internet buzzing not too long ago, and we could be seeing a potential implementation here.

There are several drawings in the patent application that represent various potential designs for the magnetic plugs. One looks similar to Apple’s current Lightning plug connector, and likely would be used like the traditional MagSafe connector.

Another looks similar to Apple Watch’s magnetic charger, except here the charging cord connector is magnetic on both sides, and features connectors to transfer power and data between the cords.

The patent images suggest as many as three of these connectors could be stacked on top of each other. Sharing the port among multiple peripherals would enable users to further customize their Apple devices to their liking instead of having to pick one over the other.

Apple magnetic connectors
Two types of possible new stackable connectors. Image used with permission by copyright holder

The patent does describe some potential use cases which give an idea what type of peripherals may be a good match. Apple says the connectors could be used to add battery packs, keyboards, external storage units, and more. Another possibility is use in new docking stations.

In a docking station, the technology might be useful for hands-free viewing or data transfer, or even as a conversion device. The dock may include legacy ports, such as USB, which would be converted and sent to the device via the new magnetic connector.

That’s sure to please some Apple users, who may otherwise complain that the company limits the types of devices we can connect to due to its proprietary connection mechanisms.

We should point out that this isn’t the first time Apple has toyed with magnetic connectors for devices other than its line of laptops, though. In 2012, the company filed for a similar patent — although there the patent related much more closely to a MagSafe connector and only allowed for one connection at a time.

That idea never saw the light of day, so don’t be surprised if this doesn’t either. After all, Apple has many patents for technologies it has never used.

Ed Oswald
For fifteen years, Ed has written about the latest and greatest in gadgets and technology trends. At Digital Trends, he's…
If this is what an Apple smart ring could look like, I need it right now
An Apple smart ring concept by Jonas Daehnert

Forget the Apple Vision Pro. What many users really might want to see is an Apple smart ring. A new concept shows what one of these first-generation wearables could look like. Consider me sold, Apple; where can I lay down my credit card?

There have been rumors in recent years about the possibility of Apple releasing a smart ring that would compete with the Oura Ring and the long-rumored Samsung Galaxy Ring. If Apple were to release such a device, it would likely track various health metrics to help users understand their sleep patterns, activity levels, and overall health. Essentially, it would be like an Apple Watch for your finger.

Read more
If watchOS 10 looks like this, I need it on my Apple Watch right now
watchOS 10 home screen reimagined through a concept render

We’re fast approaching Apple’s WWDC on June 5, where we will not only get a glimpse of what’s to come in Apple product software updates but possibly a look at the hyped-up mixed reality headset. But even if you aren’t interested in the AR/VR stuff, Apple will still be showing iOS/iPadOS 17, watchOS 10, and macOS 14 too.

This year has also had a lot of back and forth going on in the rumor mill, with Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman saying that iOS 17 may be a quiet release this year, then later saying it may be big by bringing highly requested user features. He also claimed that while the Apple Watch itself may have more modest hardware upgrades this year, there may be more focus on the software front with watchOS 10 instead.

Read more
The Huawei Watch Ultimate looks like the perfect Apple Watch Ultra rival
The Huawei Watch Ultimate in Voyage Blue and Expedition Black themes.

See if you can guess which smartwatch Huawei wants to take on with its latest release. It’s called the Huawei Watch Ultimate, and it’s made to appeal to outdoorsy types, complete with comprehensive diving and expedition modes.

It has a really big screen and a big battery too. That’s right, the Huawei Watch Ultimate is an Apple Watch Ultra competitor — but don’t pass it by just yet, because it’s worth your attention.

Read more