The latest beta from Apple holds potential evidence of new hardware in next iOS lineup

Aug 8, 2012 12:07 GMT  ·  By
Alleged iPhone 5 case next to current-generation iPhone (dock connector hole visibly smaller on the iPhone 5 enclosure)
   Alleged iPhone 5 case next to current-generation iPhone (dock connector hole visibly smaller on the iPhone 5 enclosure)

A new finding in iOS 6 supports rumors that Apple is introducing a new, smaller dock connector with the next generation of iDevices this fall. However, not all rumors seem to be consistent with one another regarding this particular hardware feature.

A “possible” reference to a 9-pin dock connector has been discovered and reported by 9to5mac after the site’s editors sifted through the endless strings of code in iOS 6 Beta 4 and found the following hardware designation: 00002d9c t_copyDeviceSupport9Pin.

The site concluded that the code references a new iOS hardware feature called ‘9Pin.’

The code in question was traced all the way back to iOS 6 Beta 1. Needless to point out, such an important hardware change couldn’t have been thought out at the last minute.

Moreover, the code also suggests Apple is on track to make the new specification a standard across its entire iOS lineup, as previously rumored.

There’s a problem though. Some reports initially said Apple’s new mini dock connector would boast 19 pins. Other sources indicated to iLounge that Apple’s new docking plug was actually using 8 pins.

Apple’s own code now says 9, and let’s not forget that such code interpretations aren’t always accurate. “9Pin” could stand for virtually anything in Apple’s iOS.

Apple is said to have decided a segment-wide refresh in the docking department, planning to include the new specification in the next generation of iPhones, iPods and iPads.

For example, a new iPod nano is expected to arrive this fall, alongside a refreshed iPod touch – Apple’s best-selling portable media player.

An iPad mini is rumored to be making an appearance this year as well. This device would also be equipped with the new plug.

Last but not least, there’s talk of Apple redesigning the iPad 3 a bit to improve its internals (addressing overheating issues) and to equip the tablet with the mini dock connector.