Apple's Rumored Reversible USB Connector Supported by Patent Filing, but Likely to Face Challenge

several leaked photos in recent days have suggested apple may looking move reversible usb connector next-generation lightning cables, making easier users plug cables computers, chargers, , other equipment standard usb ports.

noted patently apple late last week, idea supported apple patent application filed in january 2014 covering such design. application published few weeks ago , cites priority provisional patent application filed apple in january 2013.

apple isn't company technology, however, unclear how situation play out given apple's patent application assigned examiner ten days ago. california company name of ultratek holds a patent reversible connector , selling cables through major online retailers.

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ultratek first filed patent application "user-friendly usb connector" technology in 2009 , awarded patent u.s. patent , trademark office in 2010. in patent, company describes cable 2 sets of conductive contact pins allow inserted usb port in either orientation.

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a new user-friendly usb (universal serial bus) male connector physically , functionally compatible existing , future usb female connectors. unlike conventional keyed, polarized , position dependent usb male connector. new user-friendly usb male connector provides spare connections, eliminates potential connector damage , allows normal , opposite insertions usb female connectors.

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more patent, ultratek marketing reversible cable under brand name, flipper, distribution through tripplite. different configurations of reversible usb cables can purchased through retailers such newegg, tigerdirect , others less $10.

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given resources, apple undoubtedly able overcome existing patent protection on concept of reversible usb connectors, either through licensing/purchasing existing patent or finding way work around it. existing patent is, however, rather broad in describing concept of reversible "type a" usb connector of sort apparently being considered apple.

article link: apple's rumored reversible usb connector supported patent filing, face challenge

 

was plugging in usb cords difficult before?

 

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