Disable USB charging when plugging in?

[Joz3d]

Is there any way to disable the iPhone from charging when plugging it in via USB? I've started commuting to work by train (hour and a half trip), and am tethering with my MacBook Air over USB (because it's much faster than via Bluetooth). It seems to be draining my MacBook's battery a bit faster than usual due to powering the iPhone (which I start with a full charge anyway). I'd like to disable USB charging so my battery lasts longer. It's tremendously easier to charge my iPhone at work vs. my MacBook.

 

[Small White Car]

The only way I can think of is to get a custom iPhone cable that has the 'power' connection-pins removed from the 30-pin connector.

I've never seen anything like that for sale, though. I'd suggest calling companies that do iPhone repairs. Perhaps one of them would be willing to take on a custom job like that.

(And I'm just guessing. Perhaps they can tell you why my idea is stupid. Worth asking.)

 

[maflynn]

Unless you want to physically alter the usb cable, then no there's no way. Its feature that is physically designed and not controlled by software.

 

[Givmeabrek]

Maybe a cheap USB hub that has no external power supply. Worth a try.

 

[headcheese]

Was coming in to type what Givmeabrek said. Try it!

 

[Joz3d]

The only way I can think of is to get a custom iPhone cable that has the 'power' connection-pins removed from the 30-pin connector.

I've never seen anything like that for sale, though. I'd suggest calling companies that do iPhone repairs. Perhaps one of them would be willing to take on a custom job like that.

(And I'm just guessing. Perhaps they can tell you why my idea is stupid. Worth asking.)

That's a good idea, thanks.

 

[dgstan]

You also might want to try and older cable. Didn't they change the pinouts a while back?

 

[fhd4]

Remove the battery from the phone .... Oops it is not removable !!

 

[WolfXL]

Remove the battery from the phone .... Oops it is not removable !!

In which case (if you could) it would still draw power through the USB...nice try though.

 

[Julien]

In which case (if you could) it would still draw power through the USB...

...and weigh more and/or have less power reserve.