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News

MagSafe for iPhone

Monday, October 26, 2020

A little over a decade ago, Apple released one of their most ingenious yet under-appreciated new features. They revolutionized laptop charging using a wonderfully simple and elemental technology: magnets.

This charging standard, dubbed “MagSafe” allowed for your charger to be held in place with a magnet instead of being plugged in like a plug in a socket,. This meant that if someone accidentally kicked your chord while you were charging in a coffee shop, the chord would just fall away and not take your computer with it! Brilliant!

In their infinite wisdom, Apple decided to retire this charging standard from their laptop line in 2016, and instead opted for the more universal USB-C charging standard.  However, last week it was announced that this familiar “MagSafe” tech would be coming to the new iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro. Wireless, MagSafe charging for iPhone.

First and foremost this is a way to charge your iPhone. The MagSafe charger is similar to an Apple Watch charger,  just larger. When the iPhone is laid flat upon it, it can charge at up to 15W. This is almost twice the charging power as a generic “Qi” style wireless charger.  Once your phone has plenty of juice, simply pick it up off of the MagSafe pad and you’re on your way. No worries about your phone flying away from the chord being pulled.

The most intriguing aspect of the MagSafe magnetic standard making its way to the new iPhone is the possibility for new iPhone accessories. Apple has already announced new magnetic cases (no more clawing your case off of your phone!) as well as a stylish leather wallet that snaps to the back of your phone using the MagSafe magnet. We will surely see some interesting  magnetic desktop and car mounts, and maybe even a way to stick your iPhone to your ‘fridge!