Mikey Campbell
A set of images posted to the Web on Wednesday purportedly show a partially dismantled Apple Watch in-store display with attached Lightning cable, suggesting the device can be charged and fed data via a hidden data port.
As seen in the image above, published by Apple blog Blog do iPhone, working Apple Watch display units deployed at Apple's retail stores appear to use a physical Lightning-based connector for transferring data and continuous power from an iPad mini-powered pedestal.
The cable in question terminates with a Lightning connector and is though to interface directly to a data port found on production Apple Watch models nestled in the top strap attachment slot. Existence of the unannounced port was first reported in March, but its purpose has yet to be officially verified.
Apple Stores provide Apple Watch models to try on, though these units are limited to a software demo loop. A limited number of operational models are available for customer, mounted on a wedge-shaped stand next to an iPad mini. The Watch, which is being continuously charged, is connected to the iPad mini for an interactive experience that offers brief descriptions of device functions as customers browse through Watch's apps.
The stand itself sports a six-pin connector on its underside that is thought to provide data connectivity and perhaps power to recharge an internal battery cell.
Earlier this month, developers of Apple Watch battery band accessory Reserve Band claimed the hidden port can indeed be used to charge the device, though a proof of concept was not offered.
While third-party hardware makers are excited about the prospect of gaining deeper access to functional Watch features like direct charging, Apple is unlikely to allow access to the port in the near future.
Amber Neely
Andrew Orr
William Gallagher
Christine McKee
AppleInsider Staff
Chip Loder
19 Comments
Great, bring on the powered bands.
I'm not sure how Apple can block access to it without hampering its use as a diagnostic port. Also, I really don't see them caring if someone develops a battery band. I would note they haven't said a word about battery cases for the iPhone and in fact sell them on their website...
I was talking to an Apple Store guy about the ?Watch interactive display the other day. I thought that was one of the most incredible things I had seen in a while. Beautifully done.
I'm not sure how Apple can block access to it without hampering its use as a diagnostic port. Also, I really don't see them caring if someone develops a battery band. I would note they haven't said a word about battery cases for the iPhone and in fact sell them on their website...
I think that connecting to exposed pins of a connector (albeit inside a strap) with the humidity of wearing on a wrist (washing hands etc...) may make connectivity less than stellar. This is possibly one reason why Apple won't allow battery straps - they connection would probably not be that reliable.
I think that connecting to exposed pins of a connector (albeit inside a strap) with the humidity of wearing on a wrist (washing hands etc...) may make connectivity less than stellar. This is possibly one reason why Apple won't allow battery straps - they connection would probably not be that reliable.
I agree. It would be far from water-resistant, though the connector assembly itself seem to be protected by a gasket. Any water that got behind the band lug would have the potential to corrode and short circuit the electronics.