Apple rumored to be only maker of new iPhone 5 dock connector adapters
(CBS News) Apple is expected to announce the iPhone 5 next week, which means rumors surrounding the new smartphone are at fever pitch. This time, a report is circulating that claims the company will be the sole maker of adapters for the iPhone 5's new dock connector.
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Citing several sources, the blog iLounge reported that initially Apple will be the exclusive vendor for the iPhone 5's dock connector adapter. According to the report, the company has not offered developers specifications for the rumored dock connector. Additionally, the sources say the adapters will sell for about $10 each or $29 for a pack of three.
In July, Reuters also reported that the iPhone's connector dock will switch from a 30-pin connector port to a smaller 19-pin port. At the time, analysts suggested that it would be a boon for the accessories market. But if iLounge's report is true, Apple may be the only one laughing all the way to the bank - at least for now.
So why does this matter?
If Apple changes the size of its dock connector, that means all past generations of iPhones, iPads and iPod Touches will need a converter to work with future generations of accessories, like docks, monitors and chargers.
One analyst has already estimated that the iPhone 5 could sell up to 10 million units in its first week. The popularity of the smartphone could be incentive enough for Apple to play its cards close its chest.
According to the Fiscal Times, the mobile phone accessories market took in $34 billion in revenue. Products made or approved by Apple made up about $2 to $3 billion of that number. One can assume that Apple is just trying to increase its market share
We'll all get some answers soon enough. Apple's press event is schedule for Sept. 12.
