iPhone 8 Said To Include Smart Connector For Wireless Charging & VR/AR Functionality

In a recent report from the Hebrew-language weblog the Verifier, Apple's next generation iPhone 8 will consist of a Smart connector designed to help with wireless charging and, interestingly enough, some VR/AR functions as well.

Even as 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 as far as to assert that the technology may be as impactful as the smartphone.

This isn't the first time Apple's Smart connector has been speculated for an upcoming iPhone. Prior to the iPhone 7's launch last year, leaks showed versions of the iPhone 7 plus in advance of its introduction with the Smart connector placed at the back. Nevertheless, the general design became correct together with the dual camera layout, the Smart connector remains an iPad-most only connection.

According to 9to5 Mac, the wireless charging has been equipped to the iPhone, even though the inductive wireless charging in the same style as the Apple watch could be disappointing. Moreover, it is manageable as owners could use inductive wireless charging to power the iPad Pro using the Smart connector and Logitech Base.

The Verifier believes that Apple may even use the Smart connector for augmented/virtual reality accessories in some other way. The report additionally claims that new Apple TV hardware and Airplay can have a function in Apple's VR/AR vision.

However, it was revealed that the iPhone 8 claims to have IOS 11 together with group FaceTime and more desirable Siri functions like iMessage integration.

Apart from today's claims, the Smart connector has not been all for this iPhone cycle. What users are waiting for consists of new larger edge-to-edge display in the body of the iPhone 7, an OLED panel like the Apple watch, stronger waterproofing and superior cameras.