AppleInsider reports on an Apple patent filing for an iPod automobile dock. The device would seemingly complete with the TuneDok sold by Belkin, using a different method for cable management.
Apple's patent (patent 20050147951), titled "Electronic device holder", is very general, referring to use for a digital music player in an automobile only as examples. Diagrams are included.
Abstract
An apparatus that can secure an electronic device and be inserted into a conventional cup holder is described. The cup holder, for example, is inside of an automobile. The electronic device being held can be a variety of devices that include a digital music player. One embodiment of the invention includes a spool about which connecting cable can be wound. Adapting sleeves that fit around the base of the apparatus can be used to adapt electronic device holder to cup holders of different sizes and shapes.
