We’ve seen a lot of potential information about Apple’s next iPhone, with one of the most common rumors claiming that the device will sport a new smaller dock connector rather than Apple’s current 30-pin connector. TechCrunch this morning now affirms this with a report of their own.
TechCrunch has independently verified that Apple is working on adding a 19-pin port, replacing the current 30-pin port, to the new iPhone. It is a move that will surly send shocks through the iPhone accessory ecosystem.
Three independent manufacturers all agreed that the 19-pin dock port is in the works and many accessory manufacturers are facing an uneasy few months as they wait for official news of the standard to be announced.
iMore first heard back in February that Apple would be moving to a smaller dock connector, and the rumor has been persistent ever since. Despite the fact that this will likely render all current docking accessories obsolete (or at least make them require an adapter), the idea does make a lot of sense given Apple’s continual commitment to making their products thinner and lighter.
The claim also lines up with supposed leaked schematics, as well as photos and video of supposed leaked hardware that shows the new, smaller connector. TechCrunch adds to the idea, however, specifically stating that the new connector will have 19 pins.
Even though many of these rumors (from largely credible sources) agree with one another, and the idea makes sense, it’s still worth noting that even if the information is accurate, the smaller connector may not be coming to this year’s iPhone – it may be reserved for a future model. It’s also possible that Apple may revise their design.
Nothing is final until it comes down from Apple itself.