4 days ago
4
Following the introduction of MagSafe charging on the iPhone 12, Apple unveiled a MagSafe Battery Pack accessory. With deep iOS integration and unique reverse wireless charging support, it was a compelling accessory for iPhone users and earned a spot in my everyday carry.
Unfortunately, it went on to be yet another one-and-done Apple accessory that was discontinued with the iPhone 15.
The MagSafe Battery Pack wasn’t a revolutionary accessory, and it wasn’t without its shortcomings. For instance, it didn’t have enough juice to charge most iPhone 12 models from 0-100% and it charged at a measly 5W.
Still, the MagSafe Battery Pack offered deep integration with iOS, such as slick animations that appeared when you connected it to your iPhone. It also integrated with the iOS battery widget, appearing alongside your iPhone, AirPods, and other Apple accessories.
The MagSafe Battery Pack also had a reverse wireless charging functionality that third-party accessory makers can’t match. This allowed you to recharge the MagSafe Battery Pack by connecting your iPhone to power. The iPhone itself would charge first, followed by the MagSafe Battery Pack.
It’s worth mentioning that you can technically still use the MagSafe Battery Pack with iPhones sold today, so long as you already have one or are willing to buy aftermarket. You’ll just have to live with the Lightning port. iPhone batteries have also gotten bigger over the years, which means the MagSafe Battery pack will struggle to keep up with charging your modern iPhone.
The market today
There are several alternatives to the MagSafe Battery Pack on the market today, and they do offer several improvements compared to Apple’s offering.
My go-to recommendation is the Anker MagGo Power Bank, which attaches magnetically to the back of your iPhone. It charges at 15W and can charge an iPhone 16 from empty to 50% in 45 minutes. It also offers a built-in kickstand and a small display on the side that shows the current charge of the battery pack.
Another non-MagSafe option is the Anker Nano Power Bank. This slick little accessory features a foldable design that connects to your iPhone’s USB-C port for an all-in-one design.
Still, I long for the days of Apple’s commitment to MagSafe accessories for the iPhone. The MagSafe Battery Pack is dead, the MagSafe Duo is dead, and there are no signs of any other accessories in the pipeline. Apple has seemingly offloaded the responsibility of making MagSafe accessories to third-party partners.
And let us not forget Apple’s previous foray into iPhone battery packs, the Smart Battery Case. This one was last released for the iPhone 11 and hasn’t been revived since then.
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