Apple is already preparing the iPhone for 2021. The company nailed the revenue of the iPhone 12, in view of the record sales figures of the last quarter. However, the market lives on the news and the iPhone 13 can bring the user a “new” Touch ID. In addition, a much more daring step can be taken!
With the advent of MagSafe, the idea that Apple could remove the Lightning charging port has become more prevalent. But does Apple already have the technical conditions to move forward?
Touch ID vs Face ID: Masks have changed the paradigm
There is no doubt that the obligation to use the masks forced Apple to think about how to get around this new reality. Face ID is one of the most advanced authentication systems in the world, which enhances iPhones in order to validate the user's identity. However, with the face covered, Face ID loses its potential.
The Cupertino company realized this and has already developed technology that can replace and even complement this type of authentication. Yes, it will be the Touch ID that Apple has been using for many years.
The company started using this technology on the seventh-generation iPhone, introduced in 2013. Since then, this technology has evolved even inside doors and is still used both on the latest iPhones and on the iPad.
Therefore, in 2020, Apple launched the 2nd generation iPhone SE with Touch ID and launched the 4th generation iPad Air. However, these two devices have different technologies. The iPhone has Touch ID on the Home button and the iPad has Touch ID on the Power button.
In addition, Apple has a patent for a Touch ID sensor under the screen. So, the question is: what technologies will the iPhone 13 bring for authentication?
Thus, rumors are growing that the next iPhone will bring Touch ID. Some reports bet on the sensor under the screen, but others report that it makes more sense to be on the On / Off button. Besides, just for lack of time, this button did not incorporate the iPhone 12.
MagSafe will remove the Lightning physical loading port
Another point where Apple can “make the leap” is in removing the physical loading port. As you know, this port, which appeared in 2007 on the original iPhone, was developed in 2003.
The 30-pin port, also known as the dock connector, is owned by Apple and has accompanied the iPhone and iPad for many years. In 2012, Apple launched the Lightning port. It was the most advanced port on the market and continued to be until the recent appearance of the USB-C port.
At the time, this technology brought a plug with only 8 pins, against 30 from the old dock. Thus, in addition to being more elegant and robust, this plug was 80% smaller, in addition to being reversible.
It is compatible with iPhones, iPads and iPod touches… basically, all these devices launched after the iPhone 5. So, it may be time for Apple to take the leap. This is where MagSafe appears.
As we described in a dedicated article, MagSafe allows you to charge your iPhone without cables. In addition, the technology allows transporting energy up to 15W on the iPhone 12 and Pro models and up to 12W peak on the iPhone 12 mini model. It is a small evolution compared to the compatible Qi chargers that supply 7.5W.
Well, it is not the archetype when it comes to wireless charging, but it does include an interesting charging flow and has room for progression.
In this order of ideas, the next MagSafe will aim to charge speeds up to 40W, as several Android devices currently allow, which would resolve the issue of charging speed.
But what about communicating with the device?
This problem no longer exists. Apple's new operating systems, both iOS 14 and Big Sur allow synchronization between machines via WiFi, even transparently. Now just be on the same WiFi network as the iPhone already appears in the macOS Finder.
But doesn't this door have other technical features? Yes, it does, but Apple, on the Apple Watch, has also put a technical port. This is only accessible for actions that are not of use to the user. Then, on the iPhone, you can do the same.
Therefore, Apple may indeed have technical and technological conditions to move towards the elimination of the physical port Lightning.
We will wait to understand the path that Apple can follow, but surely the iPhone 13 will bring news.
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