Apple is trying to develop an induction-based wireless docking system for its portable devices, such as the iPod and, soon, the iPhone. The device will allow wireless data transfer and power supply and the iPod/iPhone will be docked in any orientation, with as effective results.

The company says an induction-based system would be more reliable and robust that electronic contacts (these can be damaged or worn out). This type of docking station enables energy transfers by proximity, without any actual contact between the device and the iPod or iPhone.

To allow such a transfer and enable data and power transfers, inductive coils must be placed inside both devices. This docking manner would be more elegant and aesthetic than usual electronic contacts as the coils are never exposed, being integrated in the device. Both the docking platform and the portable device also contain transceivers because they both receive and transmit data through electric fields.

"The combination of inductance and wireless provides an efficient way to transfer both power and data while keeping both the docking station and portable electronic device fully enclosed," Apple says. The inductors may be integrated, separated or be superimposed on one another. The station will work properly regardless of the angle or orientation of the portable device: "In essence, the interface mechanisms are rotationally symmetric so that regardless of the orientation of the portable electronic device relative to the docking station the coupling therebetween still works correctly".

Well, that's about enough on technical specifications. We'll find out more when and if it's done. I wish efficiency and best of luck to Apple technicians, all this induction-based wireless docking sounds like a good plan.