A new patent application from Apple reveals the company’s interest in a smarter approach to wireless charging, as the application outlines charging low-power devices from a near-field magnetic resonant (MFMR) power supply. A few watts of electricity could be transferred wirelessly from a NFMR power source, operating about a meter away from the receiving device rather than making physical contact.
The filing notes that “a realistic and practical approach to wireless transferring useable amounts of power over distances suitable for limited applications can be realized.”
More than one device could be charged using this technology, as peripheral devices — “when tuned to the appropriate frequency” — could join a circuit to draw power from the NFMR power supply. A dongle could also be used as a range extender.
Considering the current watt limitations, it’s possible such a technology could be useful for charging an Pod, iPhone, or possibly even an iPad mini, but likely not a full-sized iPad — at least not for a full-speed charge. However, the fact that charging could take place without the need for wired connections would make this a very viable alternative solution to current chargers.
