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Apple’s latest iPhone 12 series has a bunch of innovative and upgraded features, but its MagSafe technology really stands out from the pack. Here’s everything you need to know about it, as well as the best MagSafe phone cases to purchase right now.
What Is MagSafe?
MagSafe support is basically a new standard on the back of the iPhone 12 series, but what can it do? The most obvious use is magnetizing. This can make it easy to connect your phone to things like wallets and wireless chargers. But it’s more than just a way to conveniently hold things in place.
MagSafe also works with Qi-based wireless charging, so you shouldn’t need to upgrade to a new charging pad to power your new phone. A MagSafe charging pad is designed to fuel your phone quickly with 15 watts of power. Apple’s magnets make sure your device is perfectly centered on the pad to guarantee you’re getting a fast charge, so you won’t need to place your phone exactly at the right place every time. The company’s MagSafe Duo charger also has a central, circular section that flips up to charge your Apple Watch at the same time. Plus, it’s foldable, making it ideal for taking with you on the go.
MagSafe Cases Buying Guide
Apple is starting to integrate MagSafe into its latest cases, mostly made with silicone and leather. Some include a magnetometer inside to detect magnetic signals, along with an NFC ring to automatically sense what accessory is connected, as well as how the phone should react. They’re also safe to put near credit cards, so snapping on a wallet case is worry-free.
At this point, MagSafe is still in its infancy, and this technology is just getting started. For now, we’ve picked a few of our favorite MagSafe cases below to consider. Before you buy one, make sure it’s capable of charging. While it may seem like a given, some cases are only designed for mounting your MagSafe phone.
The Best MagSafe Phone Cases
Here are our favorite MagSafe cases to cover your iPhone 12.
1. Apple Leather Case with MagSafe
Apple’s MagSafe case aligns its magnets perfectly with accessories like wallets and charging pads. The MagSafe magnet, built right into the case, is a natural fit on this sleek covering. You can still use your existing Qi-certified charger, but this will help seamlessly fuel up your iPhone 12 Pro Max.
There’s a slightly raised plastic rim around the camera opening to protect it, and if you need to plug in your lightning cable, the bottom port is still accessible. Buttons like volume are easily clickable, and speakers are unblocked to still get maximum audio.
The material, tanned and finished with high-quality leather, feels soft and still remains tough against accidental drops.
2. OtterBox Slim Case with MagSafe for iPhone 12 Mini
OtterBox’s cases have become synonymous with tough, rugged protection over the years. And this iPhone 12 Mini one, with MagSafe compatibility, still provides the protection and quality you’d expect.
There’s a hard exterior to guard against damage, with a softer rubber-y interior to absorb vibrations from drops. Installation is as easy as a snap, with a tight fit that will still leave room for a screen protector and all buttons and ports. A MagSafe charger slaps right onto the back.
3. Smartish Gripmunk iPhone 12 Slim Case
The Gripmunk case is a MagSafe-compatible cover, and fits the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro. There aren’t magnets in the case itself, allowing it to be thinner and lighter than most. It’s slim enough that there’s zero interference between the phone’s MagSafe magnet and your wireless charger.
Like the name suggests, this is definitely a lot easier to grip and hold than some of the other case options. Its “Air Pocket” corners are designed to leave a little bit of space to take the damage from drops, with raised edges around the screen and camera for extra protection.
4. Kiket Magnetic Clear Case for iPhone 12 & iPhone 12 Pro
This transparent, affordable option is slim, lightweight and provides protection, with a strong, built-in magnet. The company drop-tested this over 30,000 times from 36 angles to make sure the case’s military-grade body can take daily wear and tear. All corners, over both the screen as well as the camera, are raised to protect it when falling hard on flat surfaces.
Its liquid silicone material is soft, and won’t pick up lint and dust when pulling it out of a pocket. Plus, the magnet itself holds well, and it’s great for both wireless charging and for using with vertical car mounts.
From Rolling Stone US