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Apple patent suggests wireless device charging
According to a recent Apple patent, users may one day be able to charge their iPhones and iPads wirelessly. The patent, titled "Wireless power utilization in a local computing environment," describes a way that computers, such as an iMac or MacBook, could charge a device like the iPhone when it is put within three feet of the computer. The technology works using near field magnetic resonance (NFMR) power transmission. Now that iOS devices can sync wirelessly, wireless charging would be a godsend and enable users to fully cut the cord. However, another advantage of NFMR power charging goes beyond iOS devices. Imagine never having to replace batteries in Apple's Wireless Keyboard or Magic Mouse. Matter of fact, given the low power requirements for these peripherals, its likely that if Apple does employ NFMR power transmission in future devices, it would likely come to them first. All that would need to be added to a mouse or keyboard is a small coupling antenna.
Apple patent app sheds light on wireless charging dreams, NFMR love affair
Apple threw quite the wireless party by introducing PC Free and iCloud at yesterday's WWDC keynote, but it seems that the engineers in Cupertino may have even more tricks up their sleeve. Judging by a recently filed patent application, the company's hoping to add charging to its list of cord-cutting services. Specifically, the patent describes building a NFMR (near-field magnetic resolution) power supply directly into your iMac so it can charge your iPhone, iPad, or even peripherals -- such as a keyboard or mouse, when equipped with a special antenna -- without the assistance of your ol' trusty charging cords or batteries. Sporting a somewhat mature iMac that's operating sans NFMR? Pop a special USB dongle in that bad boy and presto, you're good to go. The patent points out that the range is limited to one meter, though there may be ways to install repeaters in peripherals to extend that distance further. Of course, patents won't guarantee we'll be grabbing the scissors to cut our cords anytime soon, but at least we won't have to rely on these things for the rest of eternity.
