sciencetech-blog

comments

Final plans for a new reversible USB cable were announced last week.

But now it appears that Apple is going a step further, with rumours that its Lightning cable will be reversible at both ends.

New photos that have emerged of the cable show it has a 'floating' centre.

The new photo suggests that Apple's Lightning cable is set to become even easier to use because it will be reversible at both ends. Sonny Dickson's image hints that Apple's next cable will have a reversible USB port (pictured right), with a floating centre instead of fixed pins (plug pictured left)

Apple tipsterSonny Dickson, based in Melbourne, Australia, has shared a photo that suggests the new Lightning Cable is completely reversible at both ends, so the frustration of jabbing at USB ports blindly to insert cables may be over.

Just like the USB 3.1 Type-C connector, Apple's new cable will reportedly feature a reversible USB port that will plug into computers more easily, and it could be available as soon as next month. 

The picture suggests that the cable has a 'floating' centre, instead of pins fixed down one side, so it can be inserted into a USB port either way 

Experts say that the cable will use USB 3.0 technology – an improvement on the current cable's USB 2.0.

Last week, the USB Promoter Group unveiled its Type-C plug (pictured) which is reversible and slimmer than previous standards. No release date was announced, but Apple's Lightning connector - which is rumoured to boast a reversible USB port too - could be launched as soon as next month along with the iPhone 6

Apple launched its Lightning cable alongside the iPhone 5 in 2012 and it was the first charging cable that could be plugged into a smartphone or tablet either way up.

It is thought that the new cables might accompany the iPhone 6, which is set to launch on September 9.

A USB 3.0 cable would support HD audio, which means that Apple's earphones could be upgraded and connect through the iPhone's lightning port instead of a standard headphone jack, MacRumours reported.

Apple rolled out Lightning cable MFi specifications for headphones in June, which could mean that manufacturers are creating headphones and other devices that can connect to the iPhone 6 via its charging port.

With the launch of the highly-anticipated iPhone 6 on the horizon, rumours are circulating about its individual features.

The latest model is expected to come in two sizes – with one measuring 4.7 inches corner-to-corner and a larger 5.5 inch version.

It is thought the phone could boast a flexible and scratch-proof sapphire screen, which is about to go into large-scale production in the US.

The screen is tipped to be 'Retina display+' with a 1,704x904 resolution.

Experts also predict a faster A8 processor, better rear-facing camera – possibly with changeable lenses – and wireless charging support.

It may also include a heart rate sensor like the Samsung Galaxy S5.