Since its introduction with the iPhone 12 in 2020, MagSafe has become a staple for iPhone users, offering a wide range of accessories like wireless chargers and wallets. However, recent reports indicate that Apple might consider phasing out this technology. According to insider information, the company is evaluating the production costs against the established accessory ecosystem.
While MagSafe was initially poised to extend to the iPad lineup, plans for iPad Pro models with wireless charging capabilities were scrapped, reflecting Apple’s careful strategy. The primary reason for potentially dropping MagSafe is the device’s thinness. The upcoming foldable “iPhone Ultra” is expected to be just 4.5 mm thick when unfolded, making it challenging to incorporate a magnetic array. If true, this model would be the first premium iPhone since the iPhone 11 Pro to lack MagSafe.
Apple did experiment with removing MagSafe from the iPhone 16e but reinstated it on the iPhone 17e due to strong customer feedback, underscoring its importance to users. Nonetheless, Apple might reduce MagSafe on the standard iPhone 18 series to cut costs, possibly shifting the responsibility to case manufacturers. In such a scenario, users would need to purchase cases with built-in magnets to use MagSafe.
The introduction of the Qi2 standard, based on MagSafe technology, complicates Apple’s decision, as removing MagSafe could disrupt the global accessory market. Apple faces a dilemma between maximizing profits and maintaining customer loyalty.
