iPhone5 dock connector universal orientation?

[MrX8503]

Something I've noticed.

It looks like the new mini dock has no inside and the cable has the contact points on the outside. Just looking at the pictures, it looks like the new cable can be connected to the new mini dock in any orientation, backwards/forwards.

This is useful in connecting the cable in the dark or blindly.

Another theory I have is that the connector is magnetic to assist in the connection and keeping it in place. It doesn't look like the new cable has the extra protrusions to click into the dock like the current one does.

 

[TheStu]

There are indentations on the sides of the new connector, they will click onto springloaded ball bearings internal to the female side. Just like USB ports on Apple systems.

And yes, it is most likely usable in either orientation, that just makes sense.

 

[Eug]

That was the theory online, that it's usable in either orientation, just like a MagSafe connector.

Note however, not all online assessments agree.

http://translate.googleusercontent....69347/&usg=ALkJrhgosROfbUOYOt6QBjQqjmx50p28RQ

 

[MrX8503]

There are indentations on the sides of the new connector, they will click onto springloaded ball bearings internal to the female side. Just like USB ports on Apple systems.

And yes, it is most likely usable in either orientation, that just makes sense.

Ah I see that makes sense.

That was the theory online, that it's usable in either orientation, just like a MagSafe connector.

Note however, not all online assessments agree.

http://translate.googleusercontent....69347/&usg=ALkJrhgosROfbUOYOt6QBjQqjmx50p28RQ

Thanks for the link and photos.