Apple Sourcing Technology for ipod from outside!

Foxconn Technology Group recently sold 5 patents to Apple inc. which are related to electrical connector of the ipod. These connectors are used for power transmission and improved strain resistance.

Following drawings are taken from the patents which may indicate future/present ipod (or other Apple  device) connectors in the market.

Apple bought these patents in January this year and these were formally recorded at USPTO in April.

US7632134 Electrical Connector Having Protective Member
US7654856 Cable Connector Assembly Having Strain Relief Member For Cable
US20090298322 Cable Connector Assembly Having Strain Relief Member For Cable
US20090298339 Cable Connector Assembly Having Strain Relief Member For Cable
US20100120290 Cable Connector Assembly With Sticky Film 

As the world is getting smaller by technology, companies operating in any domain must look beyond internal R&D outputs.  More companies are adopting "Proudly Found Elsewhere" culture and maintaining a competitive edge in the market. Companies must overcome "Not Invented Here" syndrome and start using or buying already existing products, research or knowledge (but by buying or licensing not stealing).