Apple Patents Power Adapter That Recovers Lost Passwords 210
Sparrowvsrevolution writes "Apple has patented a power charger that also serves as a password recovery backup. If a user forgets his Macbook's password, for instance, he simply plugs in the cord, and it would provide a unique ID number stored in a memory chip in the adapter that acts as a decryption key, unscrambling an encrypted copy of the password stored on the machine. The technique, according to the patent, incentivizes better password use by avoiding traditional password recovery techniques that annoy users and lead to disabled or easily-guessed passwords. The new technique is only secure, the patent admits, in cases where the user leaves a mobile device's charger at home. So the idea may make the most sense for long-battery-life devices like iPods, iPads and iPhones rather than laptops, at least until laptop batteries last long enough that users don't take their power adapters with them and expose them to theft."
Re:And in one move (Score:5, Funny)
Not to mention the extra sale this can add to a mac book sale
Sir, you also want our "mobile adapter" - it allows you to charge your mac book anywhere, and if someone was to steal it, they wouldn't be able to reset your password using it! Brilliant isn't it? We do it in black, or white.
Re:Apple tax (Score:4, Funny)
As if they need a technical restriction, when they're so heavy handed with the legislative restrictions.
I'd never buy, for example a phone, that didn't have a micro USB charger, or a stereo that had a wacky propitiatory interface like an "ipod dock".
It shouldn't be legal to block or tax 3rd party accessory makers, and what's needed is more forced standards for consumer screwing companies like Apple.
It's only an Apple Tax (same as a Microsoft Tax) if you go that way.
Every time you buy into some proprietary technology you sell a little piece of your soul.
Cool, just added it to my charger (Score:5, Funny)
All it took is sticking a PostIt note on the side. Can I now patent moving the sticky to the inside of my closet, where it will be more secure from friends and allow me to take the charger for travel?