Apple’s MagSafe adapter has been standard in its MacBook line for years, but the inability to transfer data through the connector has prevented Apple from using the technology to replace the iPod Dock Connector.
A new patent, though, for a Magnetic Connector with Optical Signal Path might change that. Then again, it might not, since it describes a way for data to be transmitted across a MacBook’s MagSafe port, with no mention of iOS devices. It’s easy to see how this patent could possibly be used to drive a MagSafe iPod Dock Connector, though.
Apple’s patent suggests that a MagSafe with an Optical Signal Path could be used to pump USB, fiber-optic, LAN, DVI video or DisplayPort data to a MacBook, just by plugging it in. This would allow a laptop user to “dock” their laptop to the LAN or an external display just by plugging in their MagSafe.
It’s an interesting patent, but it also seems similar to what Intel is trying to do with Light Peak, which allows one type of cable to transmit data, display, audio, networking and power, all at once. Apple’s already interested in Light Peak — it’s been said that Intel only started developing it because they were pushed to do so by Cupertino — so whether or not Apple acts upon this patent largely seems to be up to whether or not Intel can roll it out soon enough to meet Apple’s expectations.
