Apple Working on New ‘Ultra Accessory Connector’ for Made for iPhone Program

Apple is working on a new “Ultra Accessory Connector” that would be built into headphones and headsets certified under its Made for iPhone licensing program.

The connector, introduced as part of a developer preview as shared by 9to5Mac, features 8 pins and measures 2.05mm by 4.85mm, thinner and smaller than existing Lightning and USB-C ports. It is said to be similar in shape and size to ultra mini USB connectors that are available in some accessories.

The UAC is smaller than USB-C or Lightning, both pictured
According to Apple’s Made for iPhone specifications for the Ultra Accessory Connector (UAC), it’s designed to be used with headphone cables. Accessory manufacturers will be able to develop Lightning to UAC, USB-A to UAC, and 3.5mm jack to UAC cables, connecting to a UAC port built into an accessory for charging and audio purposes.

Such a port could perhaps be built into products like Beats headphones, which currently use micro-USB for charging purposes, and it could save internal space manufacturers could use for other components.

Why Apple has developed a new port rather than encouraging manufacturers to adopt USB-C or Lightning is unknown (there are already MFi specifications for Lightning ports), and it is also unclear if Apple will allow accessories beyond headphones to use the new Ultra Accessory Connector in the future.

Tags: 9to5mac.com, MFi Program, Ultra Accessory Connector
Discuss this article in our forums

Target Discounting Series 1 Apple Watch Models by $70

Target is currently discounting its entire Series 1 Apple Watch lineup by $70, dropping prices as low as $199.99 on 38mm models and as low as $229.99 on 42mm models. Regular pricing is at $269.99 for 38mm Apple Watches and $299.99 for the 42mm Apple Watches.

Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Target and may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.

A total of eight models are available at the discounted price, which is a solid deal for customers looking to pick up an Apple Watch. The Series 1 Apple Watch models feature the same faster processor that’s available in the Series 2 models, but lack the GPS, improved display, and superior waterproofing.

For customers who do not swim and do not need GPS positioning for fitness purposes, the Apple Watch Series 1 is ideal. A full list of discounted models is below:

• 38mm Space Gray Aluminum with Black Sport Band – $199.99
• 38mm Silver Aluminum With White Sport Band – $199.99
• 38mm Rose Gold Aluminum With Pink Sand Sport Band – $199.99
• 38mm Gold Aluminum With Concrete Sport Band – $199.99
• 42mm Space Gray Aluminum with Black Sport Band – $229.99
• 42mm Silver Aluminum with White Sport Band – $229.99
• 42mm Rose Gold Aluminum With Blue Sport Band – $229.99
• 42mm Gold Aluminum With Cocoa Sport Band – $229.99

Target is only discounting Apple Watch Series 1 models at this time, with no discount available on the Series 2 models. Free shipping is available on the Series 1 models, and many brick and mortar Target stores have them in stock.

Related Roundup: Apple Deals
Tag: Target
Discuss this article in our forums

iPhone 8 Production May Start Earlier Than Usual

Apple may start production of the iPhone 8 earlier than expected, according to information gathered by BlueFin Research Partners and shared by Barron’s Tech Trader Daily.

There is “some indication” from the supply chain that Apple will ramp up production of the iPhone 8 starting in June, but that doesn’t necessarily point towards an earlier non-September release date.

iPhone 8 concept image via Thadeu Brandão

The most intriguing data points that we have uncovered suggests that AAPL is ramping the next generation iPhones earlier than historical norms, although we have no indication that there has been any change in release plans for the iPhone 8/X.[…]

Interestingly, our present reads suggest a 300% increase in iPhone 8/X builds in the June quarter, now sitting at 9M. As a result, overall June quarter builds have increased from 45M to 48M, with the sharp increase in iPhone 8 offset somewhat by modest declines in legacy models.

Given the radical design changes expected in the iPhone 8, it is unsurprising that the company may be planning to ramp up production earlier than normal, if the information BlueFin Research has shared is accurate. An earlier production date will give Apple time to improve yield rates and work out manufacturing issues, and could potentially lead to better supply when the iPhone 8 launches in September.

Rumors suggest the iPhone 8 will include an edge-to-edge OLED display, perhaps with curved edges, with a glass backing, a deviation from the aluminum body used since the iPhone 4s. It’s said to look like a single sheet of glass, with a Touch ID Home button built directly into the display.

Wireless charging in some form is expected to be included in the device, but it is not yet clear if it will be Apple Watch-style inductive charging or a longer-range over-the-air charging solution. Other rumored features include a faster, more efficient A11 processor, advanced biometrics like facial recognition or iris scanning, a new Taptic engine and 3D Touch advancements, and camera improvements.

BlueFin Research also says Apple has adjusted iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, and iPhone SE production downward as it begins preparing for the launch of the iPhone 8.

Related Roundup: iPhone 8 (2017)
Discuss this article in our forums