New MacBook Pro Trademark Suggests Light Peak

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We earlier shared information that Apple might include high-speed universal connection options in its upcoming MacBook Pro update. A recently-discovered trademark filing suggests this might be in the form of a MagSafe connection.

Remember our post late last year about Apple applying for a MagSafe-based universal docking station? An updated trademark filing for the “MacBook Pro” lists “power adaptors” and “power converters” separately, which means Apple might be placing additional functionality on the MagSafe cord, outlet or power adaptor.

Patently Apple believes this could be a fiber-optic channel, which will ideally support high-speed data.

Apple’s patent FIG. 11 illustrates a power and data transfer system. Data received at the data connections is converted to optical data by the power and data adapter and provided to the connector insert via the fiber-optic and DC power cable. Data received at the connector insert is received by the power and data adapter, again via the fiber-optic and DC power cable. The power and data adapter could then convert this data and provide it on the appropriate connector.

This means that the additional channel on the MagSafe port can potentially be used for transmitting and receiving data. And if a high-speed, high-capacity technology such as Light Peak were to be used, then the single port might be able to support multiple devices attached via a docking station or similar device.

Some are even speculating that this technology can be used for syncing with the iPad, iPhone or other iOS devices, which might be a good replacement to the 30-pin port currently used by the iPhone, iPad and iPod.

Whatever the case, we will know for sure in a few days (weeks?) when Apple makes its much-anticipated announcement for a MacBook Pro update.