iPhone 5 to use 8-pin MagSafe dock connector

The Apple iPhone 5 will use an 8-pin MagSafe dock connector, according to reports.

Historically Apple has favoured a 19-pin docking mechanism on its iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S handsets. This is the same setup found on many of the company’s iPod devices as well and has, up until now, ensured parity across many of Apple’s devices, including its iPad.

News of an 8-pin MagSafe connector contradicts a series of independent reports from June, which claimed that the new iPhone would feature a 19-pin mini docking connector. It also poses problems for users with expensive iPhone docks.

iLounge, who broke the news, claims the new 8-pin set up will be similar to Apple’s MagSafe design used on its MacBook PCs.

‘The male connector has 8 pins on each side,’ reports iLounge, ‘while the female connector has only 8 pins on one side. This enables the iPhone/iPod/iPad (with female port) to connect to either side of a male cable or docking plug.’

Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 5 sometime in September, potentially alongside a miniature version of its iPad. Know Your Mobile has also been told be reliable sources that the launch may occur in August, followed by a September release date.

Can’t wait until then? Check out our guide to the best iPhone 5 leaked images of 2012, which should give you a taste of what to expect come September.