According to a new report from the Hebrew-language blog The Verifier (via 9to5Mac), Apple’s next-gen iPhone 8 will include a Smart Connector designed to assist with wireless charging and, interestingly enough, some VR/AR features as well. While Apple hasn’t yet made a play in the VR/AR space, it’s no secret that Tim Cook is especially excited about the potential for augmented reality, even going so far as to claim that the technology may be as impactful as the smartphone.
Indeed, we’ve seen quite a few rumors claiming that the iPhone 8 will feature advanced 3D cameras designed to serve as the foundation for new augmented reality features. Additionally, there have even been reports that Apple is currently working on a pair of augmented reality glasses that may see the light of day in the next year or two.
The Verifier report reads in part:
Today we can share with you that the next iPhone (iPhone 8, iPhone X, iPhone Pro or 7S) will include the same “3 points” of the same iPhone. The smart connection at the bottom will enable wireless charging without the need for a dedicated cover. In addition, the same connection will be used by the new iPhone users in the VR / AR experience which Apple has been working on lately. It is not yet known what will be the way to transfer that experience (VR glasses? AR glasses like Google Glass?) But Apple is looking for creative ways to differentiate itself from its competitor.
At this point, it’s a safe bet that the iPhone 8 will in fact include wireless charging functionality. Indeed, a number of credible sources have corroborated this rumor over the past few months. Earlier this year, word surfaced that Apple has spent the last three years working with Broadcom on a wireless charging solution. And speaking to how seriously Apple views the feature, a Reuters report from February relayed that Apple currently has “at least five different groups working on wireless charging technology.”
The Verifier also notes that a new version of the
