7 Things You Should Know About Apple’s New MagSafe Accessories for iPhone 12
Credit: Apple
Apple unveiled some sweet new MagSafe-enabled accessories for the iPhone 12 lineup during its October press event. Are you wondering when the new cases will arrive and how much they will cost? Curious what items will be included with the new MagSafe chargers? You are not alone. We did the research and found the answers to the questions you may have. Continue reading to learn 7 Things You Need to Know About Apple's New MagSafe Accessories.
What Is MagSafe?
If you've never owned a Mac, then you may not be familiar with MagSafe. Introduced in 2006, MagSafe was a line of magnetically attached power connectors for Apple's MacBook computers.
Instead of inserting a plug into a computer's side, the MagSafe charger connected to the computer easily using a strong magnet. The magnet would allow the power cord to detach from the computer without damaging the connector or the notebook's power socket.
MagSafe was extremely popular among Mac users, but that didn't stop Apple from removing the connector from its lineup starting in 2016. It eventually was replaced by USB-C.
MagSafe Was Reimagined for the iPhone 12
In 2020, Apple reintroduced MagSafe, adding it to its iPhone 12 lineup. The new iPhone 12 lineup is equipped with an array of magnets built into the back of the device. These magnets are designed to attach to Apple's latest accessories like its MagSafe magnetic cases or its MagSafe wireless chargers. Apple isn't alone in creating MagSafe accessories. The Cupertino company also is working with Belkin, which is developing new magnetic products for the iPhone 12.
When Will the New MagSafe iPhone Cases Arrive?
Apple's website now lists a few select silicone MagSafe cases, clear MagSafe cases, and the leather wallet. These are available online starting October 16. The silicone cases and clear cases, and the leather wallet cost $49 and are available in an array of colors.
Noticeably missing from this accessory page are the leather cases that have been heavily advertised by Apple. The leather cases will be delayed until a later date.
When Can I Buy a MagSafe Charger?
Just like the cases, the MagSafe chargers have a staggered release. The regular $39 MagSafe Charger that charges a single iPhone 12 will be available starting October 16.
The MagSafe Duo charger, which charges both the iPhone 12 and the Apple Watch, won't be available until a later date. Hopefully, Apple follows through with the Duo Charger. The Duo Charger is a charging pad that resembles Apple's ill-fated AirPower charging pad. Apple announced the AirPower in September 2017 with much fanfare and, just like now, promised to deliver at a later date. That date never came and the company ended up canceling the device.
What's Included with the MagSafe Charger?
Apple is catching some flak for this, but the MagSafe package only includes the MagSafe charging puck and its attached USB-C cable. When you order a MagSafe charger, you will need to purchase a separate 20W power adapter.
Does MagSafe Work with Apple's Other Wireless-Charging iPhones?
Yes, according to Apple's website, its MagSafe chargers will charge the following iPhone models: iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone 11, iPhone SE (2nd generation), iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, iPhone X, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus. The MagSafe Charger also will charge the wireless AirPods, while only the Duo can accommodate the Apple Watch.
Because they lack a magnetic back, the following models will charge but not "stick" to the charger like the iPhone 12: iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone 11, iPhone SE (2nd generation), iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, iPhone X, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus
What About Belkin's MagSafe Accessories?
Belkin recently unveiled two new MagSafe-equipped products, including the BOOST?CHARGE PRO MagSafe 3-in-1 Wireless Charger and the MagSafe Car Vent Mount PRO. As its name implies, the MagSafe Car Vent Mount PRO ($39) is a magnetic car mount that you stick into your car vent. The BOOST?CHARGE?PRO MagSafe 3-in-1 Wireless Charger is a small stand that charges three devices at once. It has a base that'll charge the AirPods and two raised stands -- one for the iPhone and one for the Apple Watch. It's rather pricey though, at $149.