After introducing MagSafe charging on the iPhone 12, Apple introduced the MagSafe Battery Pack. With deep integration into iOS and unique support for reverse wireless charging, it became an attractive accessory for iPhone users and earned a place in my daily carry.
Unfortunately, it became another disposable accessory from Apple, discontinued with the iPhone 15.
The MagSafe Battery Pack was not a revolutionary accessory and was not without its flaws. For example, it didn’t have enough power to charge most iPhone 12 models from 0 to 100%, and it only charged at 5 watts.
However, the MagSafe battery offered deep integration with iOS, such as a smooth animation that appeared when you connected it to your iPhone. It also integrated with the iOS battery widget, appearing next to your iPhone, AirPods, and other Apple accessories.
The MagSafe battery also had a reverse wireless charging feature that third-party accessory makers can’t match. This allowed you to charge the MagSafe battery by connecting your iPhone to a power source. The iPhone itself would charge first, and then the MagSafe battery would charge.
It’s worth noting that you can technically still use a MagSafe battery with iPhones sold today if you already have one or are willing to buy one on the used market. You’ll just have to live with the Lightning port. iPhone batteries have also gotten larger over the years, meaning a MagSafe battery will have a hard time keeping up with the demands of your modern iPhone.
The Market Today
There are a few MagSafe battery alternatives on the market today, and they do offer some improvements over Apple’s offering.
I recommend 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 zero to 50% in 45 minutes. It also offers a built-in kickstand and a small display on the side that shows the current battery charge.
- Buy Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K) at Best Buy
- Buy Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K) at Amazon
Best comment by Paul Neal
I love mine, it gives me about 60% extra charge, is great for quick top-ups at home, works as a MagSafe charger, and has integration with the battery widget in iOS. Plus, it can keep my phone at 90% charge without fully charging. Overall, a very useful accessory.
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Another non-MagSafe option is the Anker Nano Power Bank. This nifty little accessory features a foldable design that plugs into your iPhone’s USB-C port to create an all-in-one device.
- Buy the Anker Nano External Battery at Best Buy
- Buy the Anker Nano External Battery on Amazon
Still, I long for the days when Apple was committed to MagSafe accessories for the iPhone. The MagSafe Battery is no longer available, the MagSafe Duo is no longer available, and there are no signs of any other accessories in the works. Apple has seemingly handed over the responsibility of making MagSafe accessories to third-party partners.
And let’s not forget Apple’s previous attempt at making battery cases for the iPhone, the Smart Battery Case. The feature was last released for the iPhone 11 and hasn't been revived since.
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