As noted by “AppleInsider” (http://www.appleinsider.com) two new job postings on Apple’s “Jobs at Apple” page point to a possible redesign of the current 30-pin dock connector used by the company’s portable devices since the third generation iPod was released in 2003.
One job listing is for a “Connector Design Engineer.” Here’s Apple’s job description: “The Connector Design Engineer will be responsible for managing multiple connector designs and developments in support of the iPod product lines. Cross-functional development and consulting will be a major part of your daily work. As a Lead Engineer you be responsible for identifying appropriate connection technology requirements for new products and follow through with selection and development of suitable interconnect products. This will often involve adaptation of existing connectors or complete new designs. Interfacing with connector suppliers to direct and implement the necessary design changes or creation of completely new designs will also be a major part of your daily work.”
The other job listing is for a “Product Design Engineer — Connector.” Here’s Apple’s job description: “The Connector Design Engineer will be responsible for managing multiple connector designs and developments in support of the iPod product lines. Cross-functional development and consulting will be a major part of your daily work. As a Lead Engineer you be responsible for identifying appropriate connection technology requirements for new products and follow through with selection and development of suitable interconnect products. This will often involve adaptation of existing connectors or complete new designs. Interfacing with connector suppliers to direct and implement the necessary design changes or creation of completely new designs will also be a major part of your daily work.”