The Apple Watch Series 7 has a brand new 60.5GHz module that works with a secret, corresponding dock, according to FCC filings (through MacRumors). The new wi-fi information switch function is designed to pair with a corresponding dock that Apple will use for at the moment unknown inner functions. When the Series 7 watch is positioned on that pad, it’ll activate the module — prospects gained’t really be capable to use it.

Now, that is technically nothing new for the Apple Watch, which has included a hidden bodily diagnostic port since its inception. Without really seeing an Apple Watch Series 7 in individual (and checking to see if Apple is eradicating the bodily port), it’s arduous to say whether or not that is some new, nascent Apple know-how or only a extra handy technique for working {hardware} diagnostics for Genius Bar workers.

But the information comes simply because the European Commission has introduced plans to require all smartphone producers to completely use USB-C ports on their gadgets in an effort to cut back e-waste. Combined with present rumors that Apple has plans to take away all of the ports on its iPhones — one thing that will be a extra urgent concern if Apple was trying to sidestep the brand new EU proposal — and there’s been quite a lot of theorizing across the new 60.5GHz tech.

The argument is that Apple might doubtlessly be trying to incorporate the brand new wi-fi information switch know-how into its present charging requirements, like MagSafe, on a future iPhone, promoting a proprietary dock that permits wi-fi information switch to a linked pc to switch a bodily Lightning cable.

It’s a idea that has some advantage; the port-less iPhone rumors have been round for some time, they usually come from the widely correct analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. It’s arduous to think about Apple giving in and abruptly providing a USB-C iPhone that will circumvent each its MFi licensing charges and its management over its most essential (and profitable) gadgets.

That mentioned, the timing might be just a little too handy right here; it appears extremely unlikely that Apple was working to put the groundwork for a alternative commonplace that will slot neatly right into a port-less iPhone, revealed on the precise day that the EU commonplace was introduced.

There are additionally loads of previous inner Apple options which have equally by no means come to fruition for any compelling client use. There’s the aforementioned Apple Watch diagnostic port, which has lain dormant for half a decade now regardless of goals of battery life-extending bands and different equipment. Or, take into account the Apple TV’s hidden USB-C or Lightning ports, which might’t even accomplish a process so simple as charging an Apple TV distant in any case these years.

Then once more, one by no means does know with Apple. If the corporate is trying to ditch charging ports — on account of EU guidelines or its personal whims — then it’s attainable the brand new 60.5GHz module is a primary take a look at how Apple will try to perform it.