iPhone To Get Smaller Dock Connector, Self-Healing Screen Protectors Coming?

The iPhone 5 is rumored to have a larger screen, faster processor, and a compact design. These rumors are nothing new. We have been hearing about them for months now. Apple is planning to use a smaller dock connector in the new iPhone too. Two sources familiar with the matter have claimed that the new iPhone will have a 19 pin dock connector. That means many of the current docks and accessories won’t work with the new iPhone.

Why is Apple making this move? The main reason seems to be to make room for the earphone moving to the bottom. This is not necessarily a bad thing for accessory manufacturers. After all, many of their current customers may have to buy new accessories to use with their new iPhone. Apple and some of its largest accessory makers have not commented on the story. This move is going to turn off some customers though. But we doubt people will stop buying iPhones just for that reason only.

Whether you are buying a new iPhone or an old one to save some money in the process, you are going to need a screen protector to keep your phone’s screen scratch free. The researches from the Eindhoven University of Technology have developed a non-stick protective plastic coating that heals itself when scratched. That is bad news for traditional screen protectors. Self-healing coating could have applications for cars, airplanes, appliances, and other gadgets. It will be interesting to see when the technology makes it to the market.