According to a new report from Patently Apple, the next-generation AirPods case might double as a wireless charging dock for iPhone and Apple Watch.
Last month, Apple filed a total of 250 patents applications with the U.S. Patent Office on a single day. The latest finding was a part of those 250 applications. While the concept may be super simple, it could be very beneficial for consumers.
To be more specific, Apple lists the following as a method for future devices to be recharged by the AirPods case:
“Such devices can include, for example, portable music players (e.g., MP3 devices and Apple’s iPod devices), portable video players (e.g., portable DVD players), cellular telephones (e.g., smart telephones such as Apple’s iPhone devices), video cameras, digital still cameras, projection systems (e.g., holographic projection systems), gaming systems, PDAs, as well as tablet (e.g., Apple’s iPad devices), laptop (e.g. MacBooks) or other mobile computers. Some of these devices can be configured to provide audio, video or other data or sensory output.”
The patent also mentions “holographic projection systems” which could refer to a possible augmented reality device from the company.
Given that this is only a patent, it is still unclear whether this technology will every appear in a device that the company ships to consumers. Only time will tell!
