Our methods of communication have come a very, very long way. From tapping codes directly into communication lines, to rotary dials, to twirling cords around our fingers, things changed quickly. Then cellular phones shifted us into a different gear, and smartphones completely rewrote how we talk to one another. But one thing hasn't changed since the advent of the telephone — we still have to pick it up sometimes.
But as technologically advanced smartphones are, they are just as equally deficient in how they sit in our hands. These are smooth glass and metal alloy devices that tend to slip and break. So we buy cases and grips to assist us, similar to that giant rubber thing your mom had on the back of the receiver in the 80s. And grips themselves have continuously advanced, culminating with Apple's MagSafe technology.
What is Magsafe?
MagSafe is Apple's proprietary charging system that uses a series of embedded magnets to quickly and efficiently snap accessories onto your phone. It was introduced with the iPhone 12, and is part of every phone build since. Originally intended for quick charging without the variability of Qi charging, MagSafe capable accessories have sprung up to take advantage of the magnetic connection.
As it pertains to accessories, there are two types: "Made for MagSafe" and "MagSafe compatible". The former indicates a brand that works in partnership with Apple, optimizing their accessory to meet Apple's MFi guidelines and allows for wireless charging up to 15W. The latter allows for charging up to 7.5W and denotes a third-party manufacturer. This is where the bulk of accessories are categorized.
Magsafe accessories
There are a litany of MagSafe accessories available on the market. Each one has a clear advantage over traditional accessories, especially grips.
Phone cases — MagSafe phone cases come in a variety of styles, materials, and colors to suit your particular proclivities. However, the one thing they all have in common is the continuance of MagSafe magnetic tech working through the case, allowing for additional attachments such as chargers and grips.
Wallets — a magnetic wallet seems like a strange thing to attach to your phone to hold credit and debit cards, as magnets can damage the cards. However, MagSafe wallets have a shield that protects your cards, but doesn't allow for additional attachments.
Charging stands — the core purpose of MagSafe is to make for easy charging, and that's what charging stands offer. Quick charging while keeping your phone in a still accessible position.
Mounts — mounting your phone on your car dash or at your workstation is much easier with a MagSafe mount, as it just snaps on, reducing the fidgeting required with most phone mounts.
Grips — MagSafe has substantially upgraded how we grip our phones. Traditional grips suffer from the degradation of time and use, with the sticky pads losing grip over time, or leaving residue when you swap grips. There's an inexactness to traditional grips, solved by the exact magnetic snap of MagSafe grips. Some grips double as chargers, but most offer a new way to ergonomically hold your phone without the connection affected by heat and use over time.
MagSafe grip advantages over traditional grips
There are three main advantages to purchasing a MagSafe grip for your Apple iPhone, over a traditional grip.
- Snap vs. sticky — traditional grips rely on double sided tape to stick to your phone or case. Not only are these sticky pads affected by weather and time, they also leave a grimy residue behind when swapped out. Meanwhile, MagSafe uses a magnetic snap that never degrades.
- Swap it out — and when it comes time to swap your accessory, or simply get a new style of grip, that sticky residue makes it that much more difficult. Sticky doesn't always stick well to dust-embedded sticky. MagSafe swaps are quick and easy, never requiring you to take a straight razor to the back of your phone to peel off glue.
- Ergonomic options — since MagSafe grips are built to snap securely to your phone, they are generally stronger and less flimsy. This enables manufacturers to branch out when creating ergonomic grips, adding more functionality and hinges without compromising the attachment to your phone.
