Apple keeping Dock Connector Adapter manufacturing to itself
By now, it's widely accepted that any iPhone announced next week will come with a new, smaller connector port. iLounge is reporting that Apple is initially going to be the exclusive vendor of a Dock Connector Adapter -- a potential windfall for the company.
The Dock Connector Adapter is designed to bridge the new port with existing accessories that use the 30-pin Dock Connector. Sources told iLounge that the adapters will be priced at about US$10 each or in a three-pack for $30. There will also be a new USB cable from Apple, expected to sell for $19. All of these prices are in line with what Apple currently charges for adapters such as the MagSafe to MagSafe 2 Converter ($9.99) and the internationally available Apple iPhone Micro USB adapter ($11 - $13).
If these prices are right, and if Apple does initially limit competition by remaining the sole source of the adapter, the company could generate revenues of $100 million by the end of 2012. However, if the company releases the specification after the iPhone announcement on Sept. 12, other manufacturers might have a very happy holiday season selling the little bits of plastic and metal.
