Why we need standards
Today, some iPhone 5 parts were leaked and everybody was stunned to find that Apple is still using its proprietary 30-pin connector . . . especially after the fiasco over in Europe.
But as a technology journalist, I find that a worldwide standard would be so much nicer. In fact, you can't even find a modern high-end smartphone (excluding the iPhone and Dell Streak) that doesn't use microUSB. Let's take a look at how this would be beneficial for everyone.
First off, take dock manufacturers. They are generally forced to make a decision between microUSB and Apple's proprietary 30-pin connector. And even though Apple's iPhone and iPod touch lines sell very well, the numbers don't match Android's. If manufacturers of devices used just one connector, dock manufacturers wouldn't have to decide between the two most influential ones.
Secondly, there's just the convenience factor. I, like many other people, use more than one phone. I have my iPhone 4 and an old Samsung BlackJack II. Both of these use proprietary connectors. If I could only have a single microUSB cord for charging and syncing, I could be done charging more quickly and have a simple, easy way to charge and sync both of my devices.
Unfortunately, this is not the case. As with skins, many manufacturers feel the need to put their own mark on their devices (aside from the numerous logos). Until they decide that making the devices is enough, we will simply have to deal with inconsistent connectors.
