MagSafe: what it is, features, applications

How does MagSafe wireless charging technology work? Is the power transmitted directly «through the air»? I wish it could, but it doesn't. MagSafe works differently. It used to be a technology in miniature on the Mac, when the plug was attached to a magnetic socket, but then it was removed, and users were disappointed. But MagSafe is now available in the iPhone 12 and 13. Some people were happy about it, while others were skeptical. But MagSafe does have some good points, and even critics have been receptive to the technology.

How MagSafe works

It is a magnetic device in the form of a device that attaches to the back cover of the smartphone. The energy is not transmitted «through the air». From the magnetic unit, a wire goes to the adapter, which is plugged into the mains. It can be connected to a car battery.

Such charging is called wireless, because the energy to the smartphone battery does not go through the socket, but through the back panel. It is convenient - you don't have to look in the dark where the socket is. MagSafe locks the device quickly. We put the iPhone on the socket without looking at it and charging begins in an instant. If you get a call during power, just unplug your smartphone from the MagSafe. No frantically pulling the cord out of the slot and then searching under the table or behind the bed.

The technology combines a mounting system and a charging system, applied not only to fill the battery, but also to the interaction between the smartphone and accessories. MagSafe on the iPhone has a new magnetometer and NFC reader that recognizes and interacts with accessories.

When a MagSafe device is especially handy

Magnetic charger comes in handy in such cases:

• Firmly secures your smartphone to the front panel in the car. MagSafe both holds the device and charges it. With other wireless charging technologies, you can't both power your smartphone and place it in a classic holder. It's handy when you have to leave the car several times on the way and take your phone with you. Just take it, then just put it back to MagSafe, and charging continues.
• It's convenient to use your smartphone while the device is powered up. MagSafe can be placed so that the wire doesn't interfere with holding the iPhone in your hands or placing it on a table, bed or stand.
• The MagSafe Duo opens and you can charge both your smartphone and Apple Watch at the same time. Convenient for travel - one wire for 2 devices. This model is significantly more expensive than the classic MagSafe.
• On the cover of the iPhone with MagSafe, it is possible to carry bank cards in a special case, which is fixed with magnets.

It is important to keep in mind that you can not hold credit cards, e-passes and other items with magnetic tape, inserting them between the smartphone and MagSafe. The chip or magnetic tape in these items may be damaged. There should be no metal objects between the charger and the cover.

Not everything is perfect with MagSafe

The magnetic charger has something that users don't like:

• The cable coming out of the charger is tight at the base. It can lift the MagSafe depending on the position of the smartphone.
• Charging is not very fast. Fills the battery 2 times slower than the classic wired one.
• Soft and leather cases leave a trace of MagSafe. Apple makes silicone and polycarbonate cases where there is room for fixing the magnetic charging.
• Not many accessories that support MagSafe.

Many who have appreciated the MagSafe, for months do not use the classic charging. It is much more convenient to simply attach the smartphone to the magnet, than to stick the plug into a small socket. Someone uses MagSafe in the car more often.