Apple’s recent announcement of four new iPhone 15 models with USB-C ports also marked the discontinuation of the MagSafe Battery Pack and MagSafe Duo Charger, both of which featured Lightning connectors. While Apple hasn’t officially disclosed the reasons behind this move, it aligns with the company’s ongoing transition away from the Lightning interface. The looming question now is whether these accessories will make a comeback with USB-C ports.
Apple MagSafe Charger - Wireless Charger with Fast Charging Capability, Type C Wall Charger, Compatible with iPhone and AirPods
John Gruber from Daring Fireball notes that Apple has historically introduced battery packs a few months after the release of new iPhone models. For example, Smart Battery Cases for the iPhone 6s, iPhone XR, and iPhone 11 were launched between two and four months after each device’s debut.
Apple MagSafe Battery Pack - Portable Charger with Fast Charging Capability, Power Bank Compatible with iPhone
Similarly, the MagSafe Battery Pack was introduced nine months after the iPhone 12’s release. Gruber speculates that Apple might have ceased sales of the MagSafe Battery Pack for good, or if they are planning a USB-C version, it may not have been ready for release during the recent iPhone 15 launch. It appears we’ll have to wait until November for any potential updates.
MagSafe Charger, Anker 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe, 15W Max Fast Charging Foldable Wireless Charger, For iPhone 15/14/13 Series, Apple Watch Series 1-8/Ultra, AirPods Pro/3/2 (30W USB-C Charger Included)
Mark Gurman, writing in his “Power On” newsletter, still anticipates the eventual return of USB-C versions of the MagSafe Battery Pack and MagSafe Duo Charger. However, he advises against holding one’s breath, indicating uncertainty about the timeline.
Anker Magnetic Portable Charger 5K, 5000mAh Wireless Portable Charger with USB-C Cable, Battery Pack Only Compatible with Magsafe, iPhone 15/15 Pro/15 Pro Max, iPhone 14/ 13/12 Series
In May 2022, prior to the discontinuation of the MagSafe Battery Pack, renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggested that a USB-C version of the accessory would be coming in the “foreseeable future.” It remains unclear whether Kuo still maintains this expectation.
Apple Leather Wallet with MagSafe (for iPhone) - Now with Find My Support - Midnight
The MagSafe Battery Pack, introduced in July 2021 at a price of $99, attaches magnetically to the back of iPhone 12 and newer models, offering additional hours of battery life. It can be conveniently recharged using a Lightning cable.
Apple Leather Wallet with MagSafe (for iPhone) - Saddle Brown (Previous Version, Without Find My)
On the other hand, the MagSafe Duo, launched in December 2020 at a cost of $129, is a foldable charging mat featuring a MagSafe charger for iPhones and an Apple Watch charging puck.