The iPhone isn't just evolving through new processors or better cameras. Even smaller hardware features can make a big difference in everyday use. One of these is MagSafe, Apple's magnetic system for accessories and wireless charging.
With the introduction of the iPhone 17e, Apple has implemented an important change. For the first time, every new iPhone supports MagSafe. This means the entire current iPhone lineup has a hardware feature that was previously missing from Samsung smartphones.
The journey of MagSafe to the entire iPhone lineup
Apple introduced MagSafe in October 2020 alongside the iPhone 12. The system is based on a ring of magnets inside the smartphone. These magnets ensure that accessories automatically snap into place on the back of the device.
In recent years, MagSafe has become a standard feature on many iPhone models. The iPhone 16e was an exception. This model replaced the iPhone SE and continued to lack MagSafe, as the SE never had this feature either. With the new iPhone 17e, Apple has now closed this gap.
The iPhone 17e brings MagSafe to all iPhones
This week, Apple is launching the iPhone 17e as the successor to the iPhone 16e. The device costs €699, offers double the storage capacity, and for the first time also supports MagSafe.
This means that every new iPhone Apple sells now works with the magnetic system – without any additional case. Since MagSafe was introduced in 2020, this level of support has never been available across the entire product line.
How MagSafe works on the iPhone
MagSafe uses a strong magnetic connection on the back of the iPhone. An integrated magnetic ring ensures that accessories are automatically positioned correctly.
This allows various accessories to be easily attached to the device, such as wallets, stands, or power banks. MagSafe is particularly practical for wireless charging. The magnets ensure that the charging coil automatically aligns correctly, resulting in more reliable charging.
Samsung continues to forgo integrated magnets
While Apple now integrates MagSafe as standard into every iPhone, Samsung is pursuing a different strategy. Even the most expensive models in the Samsung Galaxy series do not have integrated magnets for accessories.
This has repeatedly drawn criticism from reviewers. Samsung was again questioned about this decision this year. The tech website The Verge asked Samsung manager Won-Joon Choi, responsible for research, development, and operations in the mobile business, for the reason. His answer: Integrating magnets would make the smartphone slightly thicker.
Samsung's argument: Most users use a case anyway
According to Samsung, around 80 to 90 percent of smartphone users already use a case. Many of these cases now have integrated magnets.
From the company's perspective, it therefore makes more sense to use the additional space inside the smartphone differently. Samsung would prefer to use this space for a larger battery or a thinner device.
At the same time, Samsung emphasizes that research continues into solutions to potentially integrate magnets without compromise in the future.
Apple relies on a fixed accessory standard
Apple, on the other hand, takes a different approach. With the iPhone, the magnetic ring is integrated directly into the device. This creates a clear standard for accessory manufacturers, who know exactly where the magnets are located and how strong they are.
Samsung, on the other hand, usually leaves the integration of magnetic solutions to the manufacturers of smartphone cases. This can result in variations in the position, strength, and quality of the magnets, potentially leading to inconsistent use of accessories.
Apple has also demonstrated that MagSafe can be integrated into very thin devices. Even the exceptionally slim iPhone Air supports the technology without significantly impacting battery life in everyday use.
With the iPhone 17e, MagSafe finally becomes the standard
With the iPhone 17e, Apple finally made MagSafe a standard feature across the entire iPhone lineup. The magnetic system makes it easier to use accessories and also improves wireless charging.
Samsung continues to forgo integrated magnets in its smartphones, relying instead on solutions via smartphone cases. This means that every new iPhone currently has a practical hardware feature that is not integrated directly into any Samsung smartphone. (Image: Shutterstock / Framesira)
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