New Apple Dock Connector may be same size as Micro-USB

A lot has been speculated about the new dock connector expected to feature in the next range of iOS devices, and its size. This dock connector is said to the same size as a Micro-USB but there is no confirmation of it yet. Leaked images posted by French technology website NoWhereElse.fr show the new dock connector alongside a Micro-USB cable.

Almost similar in size

From the images, we can see that there is hardly any difference in size between the two. According to a report by Apple Insider, the Apple dedicated blog states, “As seen in the images, the purported 9-pin format is nearly identical in size to the Micro USB plug, though Apple's rumored part appears to be slightly longer and thinner.  As with most USB connectors, the Micro-A type features a housing in which contact pins are aligned in a linear manner, thus requiring an opening into which the tongue of a female receptacle can interface. Apple's current 30-pin connector is built on the same principle, however the company's new, smaller unit eschews that design for a more robust male/female system.”

There has been a lot of speculation regarding the number of pins that will feature on the new dock connector and though the images show the connector to feature 8-pins, with the metal frame around it acting as the ninth pin.

All put together

The new connector will feature other design innovations and will potentially include the ability to connect with docks or cables in either orientation, much like the case with the MagSafe power connector found on Apple’s Mac range of laptops.

A recent report claimed that Apple will be the exclusive vendor for Dock Connector adaptors that will be compatible with third party iPod/ iPhone docks. Jeremy Horwitz of iLounge stated, “Additional sources have confirmed to iLounge that Apple will be the exclusive initial vendor of a new Dock Connector Adapter, to be sold individually and/or in three-packs. According to sources, the Dock Connector Adapters will sell for approximately $10 each or three for $29, with Apple-branded new USB cables selling for $19 each. For reference, Apple’s MagSafe to MagSafe 2 Converter sells for $9.99, while international pricing for Apple’s earlier iPhone Micro USB Adapter is €9 ($11) or £8 ($13).”

The next iPhone is expected to feature a major design overhaul and is said to be much bigger, measuring 58.47 mm wide, 123.83mm high and 7.6mm thin with a 4-inch display. As previous reports have indicated, the headphone jack will also be relocated from the top of the iPhone to the bottom. The size of the dock has been reduced drastically and is much smaller and similar to the size of a microUSB. This last bit fits in line with the fact that the redesigned dock connector will not feature the traditional 30-pin configuration and instead opt for a smaller one.