Microsoft wants to patent magnetic version of USB-C connector

Microsoft has developed a magnetic version of a USB-C connector and plug. This means that a USB-C cable is magnetically attached to a desktop, laptop or tablet. Microsoft now uses a magnetic charger for its Surface products.

The drawings accompanying the patent application, which WIPO published and which has yet to be approved, show a connection with two magnetic pins next to it. The description states that the magnetic parts do not necessarily have to be next to the connection, but could also be above, below or in it.

The intention is that the magnetic connection provides the same functions as those of other magnetic connections, such as the Surface Connector as Microsoft now uses and MagSafe that Apple previously put on MacBooks, according to the extensive description. For example, it is possible to easily click on a cable through the magnets and also release them if users trip over a cable, for example.

It remains unclear exactly how that interacts with the way normal USB-C connections work, but it appears that the regular USB-C connector is pulling back to allow for the magnetic connection. This allows the port and connector to function with other USB-C hardware, but when combined with each other, they can have a magnetic connection.

Update, 17:23: This article first stated that it is unclear how it works, but tweaker Stygeon has explained that. The article has been adapted accordingly.