iPhones, iPads May Get Magnetic Chargers

The magnetic chargers used on Apple's laptops may be coming to the iPhone and iPad, according to reports.

A new patent application made public this week reveals that Cupertino could expand the use of magnets to iOS devices, according to Patently Apple. Future models of the iPhone and iPad may use the so-called "MagSafe" magnetically attached power connectors that Apple introduced in 2006 and now uses on all its MacBook laptops. These connectors easily pull out of the socket, preventing devices from being pulled off a table, for instance, if someone trips over the power cord.

If Apple makes the change, the MagSafe connectors would replace the 30-pin dock connector currently used in iPhone and iPad devices for charging and data transfer. Rumors first swirled that Apple was considering using the MagSafe technology for its iOS devices last August.

The application with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, originally filed in July but made public on Thursday, indicates that Apple is exploring MagSafe adapters with so-called "coded magnets," which could allow for charging and the transfer of data between the devices and a computer, according to Apple Insider. Further, Apple is also considering using magnetic technology for its headphone connectors.

Read the full report HERE!