Apple files for solar power management system patent

November 1, 2013
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Reddit
Email

Technology manufacturing giant Apple applied to the US patent and trademark office on Thursday for the patent of a power management system to utilise portable solar panels.

The Apple system would use solar power for iPhones, Macbooks and iPod touch without needing to plug into a mains socket to recharge. The use of solar power would aid devices currently dependent on mains socket for power and recharging.

This article requires Premium SubscriptionBasic (FREE) Subscription

Try Premium for just $1

  • Full premium access for the first month at only $1
  • Converts to an annual rate after 30 days unless cancelled
  • Cancel anytime during the trial period

Premium Benefits

  • Expert industry analysis and interviews
  • Digital access to PV Tech Power journal
  • Exclusive event discounts

Or get the full Premium subscription right away

Or continue reading this article for free

The system would accept direct current (DC) from solar panels, and AC current using a system micro controller (SMC), to an AC-DC adapter, so devices can use both solar power and an adapter.  

It uses existing technologies including maximum power point tracking (MPPT) and would not use a converter circuit, allowing adapter and solar power use simultaneously to power devices or recharge batteries.

Previously solar panels were considered too bulky for Apple products, but a portable solar panel accessory connecting to devices using a USB connector, or other ports would be used with the power management to increase portability. The power management system could also allow devices to be lighter and smaller; the idea could lead to a portable product line up, getting rid of the need for bulky external converters.

Alternative energy solutions are becoming more popular for those in need of power on the go power, not able to use a plug adapter or mains supply. Apple already uses on site solar to power its buildings, and has been granted several solar patents previously, including submitting a patent request for using external sunlight to illuminate Macbook screens to harness battery life.  

Speculation on Apple’s use of solar power for its products was raised with a job advert in September for a thin-film engineer.  

Apple is one of many mainstream technology and electronics firms to back solar power. Samsung bagged Apple’s previous semiconductor engineer, Kisun Lee. Both LG and Intel, have begun using solar power and producing solar products. 

Read Next

October 16, 2025
Masdar and Turkey have entered the final stage of US$1 billion agreement to develop the 1.1GW plant in Bor, Niğde Province, central Turkey.
October 16, 2025
T1 Energy and Nextracker have agreed to use the latter’s steel module frames at the former’s new 5GW module manufacturing facility in Dallas.
October 16, 2025
US utility-scale solar additions grew by 56% in 2024, reaching 30GW from 2023’s 19GW and representing over 54% of all new electricity generation capacity added in the country last year.
October 16, 2025
Expanding the electrification of Europe’s energy sector, would be the 'main tool' to improve the EU’s energy security, according to Ember.
October 16, 2025
Jakson Green and Blueleaf Energy have reached financial close for the 840MWp Bikaner solar projects in Rajasthan, western India. 
October 16, 2025
Off-grid solar company Sun King has revealed plans to set up manufacturing operations in Kenya and Nigeria.

Subscribe to Newsletter

Upcoming Events

Solar Media Events
October 21, 2025
New York, USA
Solar Media Events
November 25, 2025
Warsaw, Poland
Solar Media Events
December 2, 2025
Málaga, Spain
Solar Media Events
February 3, 2026
London, UK