Categories: Archived Post

Apple patent filing hints at the return of the MagSafe connector

With the 2016 MacBook Pro line, Apple ditched the beloved MagSafe connector, which disengaged with the slightest amount of pressure. This saved many Mac laptops from a disastrous plummet when someone accidentally snagged the power cable. However, a recent patent filing (number 20170093104) for a “magnetic adapter” hints that it could return.

The patent is for adapters that may have a MagSafe connector receptacle and a Universal Serial Bus Type-C connector insert. This may allow MagSafe chargers to be used to charge devices having Universal Serial Bus Type-C connector receptacles. This also may provide the breakaway characteristic of a MagSafe connector system for a device that does not include a MagSafe connector receptacle. Other adapters may have other types of magnetic connector receptacles and connector inserts.

Of course, Apple files for — and is granted — lots of patents by the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office. Many are for inventions that never see the light of day. However, you never can tell which ones will materialize in a real product.

Dennis Sellers

Dennis Sellers is the editor/publisher of Apple World Today. He’s been an “Apple journalist” since 1995 (starting with the first big Apple news site, MacCentral). He loves to read, run, play sports, and watch movies.

Recent Posts

Don’t look for a new standard iPad or updated iPad mini at next week’s ‘Let Loose’ event

Don’t look for a new standard iPad or updated iPad mini at next week’s “Let…

6 hours ago

Newly granted patent shows Apple is considering an ‘iPhone Fold’

I’m still dubious that we’ll see a foldable iPhone. However, a newly granted patent for…

8 hours ago

Exploring Legacy Modernization Services and Outsourcing Models for Business Evolution

Modernizing legacy systems is crucial for business evolution as it enables organizations to adapt to…

8 hours ago

Today’s deal: Rosetta Stone lifetime subscription only $189

With its intuitive, immersive training method, Rosetta Stone will have you reading, writing, and speaking…

8 hours ago

Apple wants its Map app to do a better job of offering alternative routes

Apple wants its Map app to do a better job of offering alternative routes.

8 hours ago

How to use the Measure app in on the iPhone, iPad

iOS and iPadOS come with a Measure app that allows you to draw (virtual) straight…

8 hours ago