Apple May Drastically Revamp iPhone Charging Method for 6th Generation Model

[Michael Essany]

Although most clues we've received so far regrading the forthcoming launch of the iPhone 5 suggest few major design changes for the next-gen model, the Wall Street Journal and sources within the tech space are already picking up on the scent of a possible major revamp in the works for next year's iPhone release (yes, the iPhone 6).

Naturally, it seems beyond premature to begin speculation about the 6th generation handset before the 5th arrives, but the technology that could be employed for next year's iPhone refresh may be such that work is already underway on the new charging mechanism that will accompany that particular model.

"People briefed on Apple's plans said the company is planning a major iPhone revamp then, with one person saying the company has been experimenting with features such as a new way of charging the phone," the WSJ reported, while not elaborating on the nature of the suspected changes or how a new charging method would impact the basic design of the device.

As it presently stands, this fall's release of the iPhone 5 will likely see few major cosmetic shifts, although analysts and components suppliers largely concur that the device will be thinner and lighter than its predecessors. Additionally, a 8MP camera is believed to be built into the 5th generation model of which 25 million units are now expected to be produced before the end of 2011.

Source: WSJ

[Deeplock]

im betting jumper cables, solar panels, or a fusion reactor....

or maybe just a good ol' fashioned potato...

[whereswaldo]

Here's a new rule, you can't speculate about the iPhone 6 until the iPhone 5 is out, deal?
It sounds like they're thinking of a little more than changing the charging lock screen, they might do something big

[Spaceman1701]

if this is what the new Iphone 5 looks like, I will pass.
iPhone 5 To Go Thinner And Lighter, Expect To Launch By September | Redmond Pie

[teej1410]

if this is what the new Iphone 5 looks like, I will pass.
iPhone 5 To Go Thinner And Lighter, Expect To Launch By September | Redmond Pie

Ugh that looks ugly for an iPhone.

Also, if the iPhone 6 will have a new charging mechanism, I hope they implement the clear solar panels in them.

[PhanaticD]

has there been a date set for the iphone 5? Im wondering if its worth waiting or if i should just get a 4 now

[RICO_]

With as much credit Apple gives itself....I expect the 6th generation iPhone to fully charge in 4.3 seconds.

[GTRagnarok]

It'll include plugs that you stab into your chest to harness your natural electrical energy.

[indyracer05]

I hope its the wireless charging modmyi talked about apple getting getting the patent for a few weeks back. But yes ik, they rarely use any of the patents they have, but it would definitely be a drastic new way

[ikkviper]

Ugh that looks ugly for an iPhone.

Also, if the iPhone 6 will have a new charging mechanism, I hope they implement the clear solar panels in them.

How's that gonna work while its in my pocket? lol

[politicalslug]

How about something as simple as a MagSafe-like docking/charging port, similar to power connector on a MacBook? That sounds both awesome and obvious.

[Stephen.]

Okay, I'm gonna call it. Near field over-the-air wireless charging. They had a patent on it a couple of months ago. Maybe im getting a little ahead of myself but it doesnt seem that far off.

[Subtenko]

could standard wireless charging be a possibility?

[tudtran]

Nice a cancer causing iPhone.

[Notangel74]

How stupid talking about iPhone 6 if the 5 is not out yet what about iPhone 4s