Which iPhones Work with the MagSafe Battery? Compatibility Secrets Revealed!

At its AweDropping event, Apple announced the comeback of its MagSafe Battery, but with a significant twist: it’s now only compatible with the new iPhone Air. This decision clearly highlights the strategic direction Apple is taking with this ultra-thin model.

65% More Battery Life

Designed to offset the thinness—and thus reduced capacity—of the built-in battery, this MagSafe Battery for the iPhone Air is engineered to boost the device’s battery life by 65%. According to Apple, this should provide the longest battery life ever achieved on an iPhone with an accessory. Despite this enhancement, the overall design remains impressively lightweight and does not significantly increase the thickness, thus preserving the iPhone Air’s sleek appearance.

Apple had discontinued its original MagSafe Battery when transitioning from Lightning to USB-C. Since then, only third-party manufacturers offered USB-C compatible MagSafe batteries. The reintroduction of the official version marks a repositioning—somewhat forced—back into this segment by the company.

Slim and Lightweight Design
Exclusively created for the iPhone Air, the MagSafe Battery for iPhone Air is meant to be easily pocketable. Soft to the touch, it boosts your iPhone Air’s battery life by up to 65%. That’s more than any other iPhone to date.

Convenient and Smart
Attach the MagSafe Battery to your fully charged iPhone Air to enjoy a full day’s battery life. To optimize longevity, this combined system selects the best times to charge. And if you need a quick power boost, simply attach the battery for a fast wireless charge of up to 12W wherever you are.

Fast Charging
To charge your iPhone Air even faster, attach the MagSafe Battery to your iPhone and connect it at the same time to a 20W (or higher) adapter.

What About Compatibility with Other iPhones?

However, Apple points out that this new battery is not limited to just the iPhone Air. Thanks to its USB-C port, it can also serve as an external battery for other devices: USB-C accessories, small peripherals, or even an iPhone or iPad that can be charged via cable. Of course, its modest capacity limits its appeal as a universal power bank, but it can be handy in a pinch.

Why aren’t all iPhones compatible? The main reason given is the specific design of the iPhone Air. Its flat back and lack of a large camera bump allow for perfect alignment with the battery. In contrast, the larger camera modules of the iPhone 17 and 17 Pro would make it physically impossible to use the battery. This limitation is likely to frustrate users of the premium models.

Price and Availability

However, be aware that the MagSafe Battery is a premium accessory, consistent with Apple’s pricing standards. Indeed, it will cost you 115 euros to get one. At this price, its main appeal remains for buyers of the new ultra-thin iPhone, who will benefit from both extended battery life and a design that integrates seamlessly.

In summary, the MagSafe Battery makes a comeback, but in a more exclusive form than ever: an accessory designed primarily to enhance the iPhone Air experience, while also serving minor functions for other USB-C devices. However, there are certainly more affordable alternatives available, like these Anker batteries (link below).

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