Until USB Type-C becomes the norm, we’ll have to fear plugging the charging cable the wrong way, fact that could damage both the connector and the smartphone’s microUSB port. ZNAPS solves that problem in a very simple way.
The concept behind ZNAPS is so simple that’s unbelievable how no one has ever thought about it. Magnetic connector could prevent a lot of damage to smartphones, tablets, and the objects around them. You don’t even need to get a new cable, as ZNAPS has a component (the adapter) that attaches to the existing cable (Lightning or microUSB, depending on your device), and another one (the connector) that’s plugged in the charging port. Smartphones, tablets and in the future even notebooks could be charged this ways. My hope is that the Toronto-based company that developed ZNAPS patented the design, so that device manufacturers don’t steal it. I admit that it would be useful if devices came with such chargers out of the box, but manufacturers would have to admit ZNAPS’ brilliance and pay the developers their share before implementing this.
ZNAPS supports not only charging, but also data transfers, so you don’t have to remove the connector before transferring files from a computer to the smartphone or tablet. Just use the same cable.
Here is the developer’s description of the ZNAPS magnetic connector:
“Let’s make charging easier! ZNAPS is a simple yet perfect solution to prevent frayed charging cables, tripping over cable resulting in smashed phones, pointless fiddling to plug in cable in the dark, water damage through charging outlet, and more! This innovative magnetic charging adapter will make your life just a bit more convenient.
ZNAPS supports charging process as well as data synchronization and it’s designed for both Lightning cable (iPhone) and Micro-USB cable (Android). ZNAPS is a minimalist’s dream come true and perfect for those who love to accessorize. Thanks to our specialized micro-connector, ZNAPS is so small it will fit into any custom phone case so you don\t have to ditch your favorite phone cover.”
The manufacturer turned to Kickstarter to raise the money necessary for making ZNAPS commercially available. To do that, ZNAPS needs $120,000, but given how useful and affordable it is, I have no doubts that the funding goal will be reached and even exceeded several times. To get a ZNAPS adapter, you need to pledge $11 or more, and should expect to receive the product in November 2015.
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