Wireless chargers like these require direct contact
Apple has been granted a patent for some enhanced wireless charging technology that could feature in future iPhones and iPads.
Originally filed back in April 2012, the newly granted patent outlines a way of using wireless near-field magnetic resonance (NFMR) to transmit power to multiple devices.
By integrating the NFMR technology into a power supply, something like a laptop could provide charge for a number of compatible devices, even from a distance of around a metre.
“In this way, a charging region can be formed around the computer in which the peripheral device (or any other appropriately configured device) can wirelessly receive useful amounts of power from the power supply,” reads the patent.
The majority of the patent explains how wireless keyboards, mice or other peripherals could be kept remotely charged using the NFMR power supply within the computer itself.
However, the technology could extend to smartphones and tablets, so it would automatically charge when in the general area of your compatible desktop or laptop.
Apparently, the peripherals would have to have a “small form factor wireless power unit… sized along the lines of a standard AAA battery” to pack the NFMR tech.
“It should be noted however, that since small form factor wireless power units… can be of any size and shape, it is contemplated that any battery of any size or configuration can be replaced by small form factor power units”.
That means that current devices could be retrofitted with the technology, especially those with removable batteries. Or, Apple notes that the technology could be in-built into something like a USB dongle that could be fitted to a desktop.
From the sounds of the patent, Apple has been experimenting with this NFMR technology for quite some time. Hopefully, it could be something that is in built into future iPhone and iPad devices, if not the imminent generation of new products like the iPhone 6 or iPad Air 2.
Read more: iPhone 6 vs iPhone 5S – What to expect
Via: ZDNet