Reuters is the latest to suggest that Apple will move to a smaller dock connector with the next-generation iPhone. Its sources explain that the move to a 19-pin connector will “make room for the earphone moving to the bottom.” The iPhone’s headphone jack currently sits at the top.
The new port will replace the proprietary 30-pin port that has been standard for a number of years and takes up 21 millimeters of space. Its more compact design could also allow Apple to make smaller devices or squeeze a larger battery into devices of the same size.
The move will likely mean that accessories for current iPhones, iPads, and iPods will not work with the iPhone 5. It remains to be seen if Apple (or an accessory manufacturer) will offer some kind of adaptor so that current device owners can continue to use existing accessories when they upgrade to the new iPhone without having to replace them.
If earlier rumours are correct, Apple will also use the smaller connector in other upcoming products.
Read more: Reuters