The most peculiar absence in the iPhone 16e is the lack of MagSafe support. The surprise was significant enough for Apple to provide some clarification about it.
However, the situation seems even more puzzling with the realization that the device comes incredibly close to having this capability…
Three Benefits of MagSafe
As previously mentioned, the iPhone 16e boasts several flagship features, but MagSafe is noticeably missing – a significant omission considering the three advantages it provides.
First, MagSafe simplifies wireless charging by allowing you to place your phone near a wireless charger, where it snaps effortlessly into position. No more fumbling to find the correct alignment.
Second, wireless charging speeds are notably improved. While original Qi wireless charging was limited to 7.5w, MagSafe and Qi2 have doubled this to 15w, and the iPhone 16 lineup can reach up to 25w with an updated MagSafe charger.
Third, MagSafe has introduced a broad range of accessories, from integrated car mounts and chargers to MagSafe wallets and camera stabilizers.
Apple’s Circular Reasoning for the Omission
Apple defended the absence of this feature in the latest iPhone by suggesting that the target demographic doesn’t utilize it.
As per Apple representatives, a significant portion of the 16e’s target market primarily charges their devices with a cable, rarely using inductive charging.
However, this argument is somewhat circular. Apple seems to imply that the target audience will comprise users of the iPhone SE models or earlier versions, who typically do not engage with MagSafe. Yet, these users didn’t use MagSafe due to their devices lacking the capability.
The iPhone 16e Nearly Supports MagSafe
Macworld’s David Price observed that the new iPhone is equipped with MagSafe magnets – albeit not enough to create a proper attachment.
When I removed my iPhone 16e from its case to capture some images with an older MagSafe charging puck for demonstration purposes (showing it can charge with such accessories but lacks a strong magnetic attachment), I made an unexpected discovery: the magnets within the charger do connect with the iPhone 16e. Though it’s a weak link, it’s definitely present.
He shared a video demonstrating how he positioned the device just above a MagSafe charger, which then lifted from the table and audibly attached itself to the phone. It maintained its magnetic hold when he lifted the phone.
This phenomenon had likely gone unnoticed earlier due to the weak magnetic force being unable to penetrate a case. He also warns that a vertical magnetic dock may not support the phone’s weight.
Nonetheless, this adds to the enigma of why Apple came so close to implementing MagSafe without following through.
Highlighted Accessories
Image: DMN collage of images from Apple and Yuriy Kovalev on Unsplash
