Apple Patents Cutting 3.5mm Jack in Half 369
An anonymous reader writes with an article on a recent patent application by Apple. From the article: "Apple likes thin devices and considers the depth of the iPod, iPhone and iPad as critical component of the aesthetic appearance of a product and has been very aggressive in finding ways to trim fat from its portable devices: The 3.5 mm audio-connector stands in the way of future design improvements: Apple suggests to simply cut it in half."
Re:I'm confused (Score:3, Informative)
You'll note that the patent (you did RTFA right? No, silly me, of course you didn't!) specifies that current connectors would be compatible with the port, but that either it would require a magnetic system to hold the connector onto the port, or a cover would have to be installed to hold the connector on, thus eliminating the need for an adapter since current 3.5mm jacks would work with it.
Re:I'm confused (Score:2, Informative)
Wrong. Current ports would be compatible with the new plug, but NOT the other way around.
And there's already a more standard approach to this - 2.5mm audio jacks.
Re:I'm confused (Score:5, Informative)
RTFA much?
You;re the one that's wrong.
" Current jacks will fit the new port design, but since the port is cut in half and exposed to one side of the device shell, a traditional connector would simply drop out: Apple proposes a magnetic interface that would keep a thin audio connector in place"
Re:Not what I was expecting from the summary (Score:4, Informative)
No, the idea is for a surface mount 3.5mm port that a half-width plug will sit in flush, but a normal 3.5mm plug will sit in but be proud of the surface, both held in place by a magnet. The patent also specifies an optional cover to make it look more aesthetically pleasing (or as a structural element of the port, depending on magnet strength).
Re:I'm confused (Score:4, Informative)
A "jack" is a female fitting.
So, where does the phrase "jacking off" come from?
Turning your own hand into a "female fitting"