MagSafe

Last updated

MagSafe Connector
MagSafe (logo).svg
MacBook Pro 16 (M1 Pro, 2021) - Wikipedia.jpg
MagSafe 3 connector in use on a MacBook Pro (2021)
Type Computer power connector
Production history
Designer Apple Inc.
Manufacturer Apple Inc.
Produced 2006–present
Superseded Apple Power Connector (2005)
General specifications
Hot pluggable Yes
External Yes
Pins 5
Pinout
MagSafe-Pinout.svg
Male MagSafe 1 connector, front view
Pin 1 GND (0 V)
Pin 2 V+ (14.5 / 16.5 / 18.5 / 20 V DC)
Pin 3 Charge control pin
Pin 4 V+ (14.5 / 16.5 / 18.5 / 20 V DC)
Pin 5 GND (0 V)
Gray area indicates magnetic connector shroud

MagSafe is a series of proprietary magnetically attached power connectors developed by Apple Inc. for Mac laptops. MagSafe was introduced on 10 January 2006, in conjunction with the MacBook Pro, the first Intel-based Mac laptop, at the Macworld Expo. A MagSafe connector is held in place magnetically so that if it is tugged (for example, by someone tripping over the cable), it will be pulled out of the port without damaging the connector or the port, and without pulling the computer off its surface. [1] A thinner and wider version, called MagSafe 2, was introduced in 2012. It was discontinued across Apple's product lines between 2016 and 2019 and replaced with USB-C and USB Power Delivery charging. MagSafe returned to Mac laptops with the introduction of updated MacBook Pro models with MagSafe 3 in 2021.

Contents

History

The basic concept of MagSafe is derived from the magnetic power connectors that are part of many deep fryers and Japanese countertop cooking appliances since the early 2000s in order to avoid spilling their dangerously hot contents. [2] [3] [4] [ failed verification ] MagSafe was introduced on January 10, 2006 in the first-generation MacBook Pro. [5] Apple was granted US Patent No. 7311526 for MagSafe ("Magnetic connector for electronic device", issued in 2007) as MagSafe was deemed to be a sufficient improvement due to the connector being symmetrical and reversible, and the fact that magnets within a connector are arranged in opposing polarities for improved coupling strength.

Apple phased out the original MagSafe and MagSafe 2 with the release of the 12-inch MacBook and the 2016 MacBook Pro which both used only USB-C for charging. [6] [7] The last with MagSafe before 2021, the 2017 MacBook Air, was discontinued on July 9, 2019. [8]

The MagSafe connector returned in 2021 as "MagSafe 3" with the introduction of updated 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models. [9]

Apple also uses the MagSafe name for a wireless power transfer and accessory-attachment standard for the iPhone based on the Qi standard, introduced with the iPhone 12 and 12 Pro. [10]

Features

MagSafe

Close-up of the first-generation MagSafe connector MagSafe1.jpg
Close-up of the first-generation MagSafe connector

The first generation MagSafe (also referred to as MagSafe 1 after the introduction of MagSafe 2) has connector pins that are designed so the rectangular connector can be inserted in either orientation. Originally the connector was T-shaped, with the cable directed straight out; later it became L-shaped, with the cable directed along the side of the computer, but still capable of being inserted in either orientation, unless simultaneous use of neighboring ports such as USB required directing the cable toward the rear. LEDs on both the top and bottom of the connector show green if the computer battery is fully charged and amber or red if the battery is charging. MagSafe can be found on the MacBook (2006–2011), MacBook Pro (2006 through mid-2012, non-Retina) and MacBook Air (2008–2011) notebook computers. The Apple LED Cinema Display and Thunderbolt Display include built-in MagSafe chargers. [11]

The MacBook and the 13-inch MacBook Pro use a 60  W MagSafe charger, whereas the 15- and 17-inch MacBook Pro use an 85 W version. The MacBook Air used a lower-powered 45 W version. According to Apple, an adapter with a higher wattage than that originally provided may be used without problems. [12]

Apple formerly offered a "MagSafe Airline Adapter" for use on airplanes with EmPower Classic outlets. The MagSafe Airline Adapter had a DC input (instead of AC like the original MagSafe chargers) and would power the computer but would not charge the battery. [13]

MagSafe 2

Close-up of the MagSafe 2 connector Apple MagSafe 2 Connector.jpg
Close-up of the MagSafe 2 connector

MagSafe 2 was introduced on the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro with Retina Display at the 2012 Worldwide Developers Conference on June 11, 2012. It was made thinner to fit the thinner laptops, and also wider to preserve magnetic grip force. It also returns to the T-shaped design that points straight out, rather than the L-shape that runs along the side of the machine. [14] MagSafe 2 can be found on the MacBook Pro (2012–2015 Retina models) and MacBook Air (2012–2017) notebook computers.

The resulting shape is incompatible with the older MagSafe connector; Apple released a MagSafe to MagSafe 2 adapter that was also bundled with the Thunderbolt Display, which used the original MagSafe connector.

MagSafe 3

Close-up of the MagSafe 3 connector Magsafe3 closeup.jpg
Close-up of the MagSafe 3 connector

On October 18, 2021, Apple announced the M1 Pro and M1 Max 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models with MagSafe 3. [15] MagSafe 3 is slimmer than its predecessor and connects to a power supply using a removable cable with a USB-C end. It supports up to 140 W power delivery on the 16-inch MacBook Pro with its bundled 140 W GaN power adapter which supports USB Power Delivery 3.1. [16]

In June 2022, Apple announced the M2 MacBook Air with MagSafe 3, and new braided-jacket cables available in three colorways matching the available MacBook Air case colors. [17]

Pinout

The MagSafe connector pins allow for the adapter to be inserted in either orientation. The first and second pins on each side of the central pin have continuity with their mirror pins.

The rectangular metal shroud surrounding the pins acts as shielding for the electrical pins and a ferrous attractor for the magnet in the laptop.

Third-party products

Apple does not license the MagSafe connector to third parties, but manufacturers have devised a workaround: their MagSafe-compatible products use the actual connector from Apple's AC adapter, grafted onto their own products. Since this uses an actual Apple product, purchased legally, manufacturers believe that no licensing agreements are needed (a principle referred to as the first sale doctrine) and no patent was violated. [19] However, in 2010 Apple still sued one such manufacturer, Sanho Corporation for selling its very popular HyperMac battery extension products which Apple claimed violated their patents. [20] Sanho has since ceased to sell their connector cable for the HyperMac series of external batteries. [21]

Fake MagSafe 2 chargers were offered for sale on sites such as Amazon. These chargers were sometimes unsafe or had false specifications in their labelling or malfunctioned: e.g. the LEDs on the connector did not show the correct color. [22] [23] [24] [25]

Related Research Articles

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<span class="mw-page-title-main">Apple Cinema Display</span> Series of computer monitors sold by Apple Inc.

The Apple Cinema Display is a line of flat-panel computer monitors developed and sold by Apple Inc. between 1999 and 2011. It was initially sold alongside the older line of Studio Displays, but eventually replaced them. Apple offered 20, 22, 23, 24, 27, and 30-inch sizes, with the last model being a 27-inch size with LED backlighting.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">MacBook Pro</span> Line of notebook computer

The MacBook Pro is a line of Mac laptop computers developed and manufactured by Apple. Introduced in January 2006, it is the high-end sibling of the MacBook family, sitting above the ultra-portable MacBook Air and previously the low-end MacBook. It is currently sold with 14-inch and 16-inch screens, all using Apple M-series chips. Before Apple silicon, the MacBook Pro used Intel chips, and was the first laptop made by Apple to do so, replacing the earlier PowerBook. It was also the first Apple laptop to carry the MacBook moniker.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Belkin</span> American consumer electronics and networking company

Belkin International, Inc., is an American consumer electronics company headquartered in El Segundo, California. It produces mobile and computer connectivity devices and peripherals for consumer and commercial use. These include wireless chargers, power banks, charging cables, data cables, audio and video adapters, headphones, earbuds, screen protectors and cases, surge protectors, docking stations and data hubs, secure KVM switches and network cables.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">MacBook Air</span> Line of ultraportable notebook computers by Apple

The MacBook Air is a line of laptop computers developed and manufactured by Apple since 2008. It features a thin, light structure in a machined aluminum case and currently either a 13-inch or 15-inch screen. The MacBook Air's lower prices relative to the larger, higher performance MacBook Pro have made it Apple's entry-level notebook since the discontinuation of the original MacBook line in 2011.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">MacBook</span> Line of laptop computers by Apple

MacBook is a brand of Mac notebook computers designed and marketed by Apple that use Apple's macOS operating system since 2006. The MacBook brand replaced the PowerBook and iBook brands during the Mac transition to Intel processors, announced in 2005. The current lineup consists of the MacBook Air (2008–present) and the MacBook Pro (2006–present). Two different lines simply named "MacBook" existed from 2006 to 2012 and 2015 to 2019. The MacBook brand was the "world's top-selling line of premium laptops" as of 2015.

EmPower is a brand name that refers to three different power outlets available on commercial airlines:

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mac (computer)</span> Family of personal computers made by Apple

Mac, short for Macintosh, is a family of personal computers designed and marketed by Apple. The name Macintosh is a reference to a type of apple called McIntosh. The product lineup includes the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro laptops, and the iMac, Mac Mini, Mac Studio, and Mac Pro desktops. Macs are sold with the macOS operating system; the latest release is macOS 15 Sequoia.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mini DisplayPort</span> Miniaturized version of the DisplayPort connector

The Mini DisplayPort is a miniaturized version of the DisplayPort audio-visual digital interface.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Dock connector</span> Bus and power connector in laptops and mobile devices

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<span class="mw-page-title-main">Universal charger</span>

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Thunderbolt is the brand name of a hardware interface for the connection of external peripherals to a computer. It was developed by Intel in collaboration with Apple. It was initially marketed under the name Light Peak, and first sold as part of an end-user product on 24 February 2011.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Apple Thunderbolt Display</span> Flat panel computer monitor sold by Apple Inc.

The Apple Thunderbolt Display is a 27-inch flat panel computer monitor developed by Apple Inc.and sold from July 2011 to June 2016. Originally priced at $999, it replaced Apple’s 27-inch Cinema Display. For displays it can only connect with computers with a Thunderbolt port. It is incompatible with most non-Apple computers, along with Macs released before 2011 and the 2012 Mac Pro or the single USB-C Retina MacBook. Devices with Thunderbolt 3 using an adaptor will work with the Apple Display.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Lightning (connector)</span> Proprietary computer bus and power connector by Apple Inc.

Lightning is a proprietary computer bus and power connector, created and designed by Apple Inc. It was introduced on September 12, 2012, in conjunction with the iPhone 5, to replace its predecessor, the 30-pin dock connector. The Lightning connector is used to connect Apple mobile devices like iPhones, iPads, and iPods to host computers, external monitors, cameras, USB battery chargers, and other peripherals. Using 8 pins instead of 30, Lightning is much smaller than its predecessor. The Lightning connector is reversible. The plug is indented on each side to match up with corresponding points inside the receptacle to retain the connection.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">USB-C</span> 24-pin USB connector system

USB-C, or USB Type-C, is a 24-pin connector that supersedes previous USB connectors and can carry audio, video, and other data, to connect to monitors or external drives. It can also provide and receive power, to power, e.g., a laptop or a mobile phone. It is used not only by USB technology, but also by other protocols, including Thunderbolt, PCIe, HDMI, DisplayPort, and others. It is extensible to support future protocols.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">12-inch MacBook</span> 2010s line of Apple notebook computers

The 12-inch MacBook is a discontinued Mac laptop made by Apple Inc., which sat between the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro in Apple's laptop lineup.

iPad Pro Line of Apple tablet computers (2015–present)

The iPad Pro is a series of tablet computers, positioned as a premium model of Apple's iPad tablet computer. It runs iPadOS, a tablet-optimized version of the iOS operating system.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">MagSafe (wireless charger)</span> Magnetic connection system for Apple products

MagSafe is a proprietary, magnetically attached wireless power transfer and accessory-attachment standard developed by Apple Inc. for its iPhone and AirPods product lines. It was announced on October 13, 2020, in conjunction with the iPhone 12 and 12 Pro series. The first version provides up to 15 W of power and is compatible with the open Qi standard for up to 7.5 W of power. The second version, announced in 2024 in conjunction with the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro, provides up to 25 W of power and is compatible with the Qi2 standard for up to 15 W of power. The connector also enables connecting non-charger accessories such as card holders and cases with communication through an integrated NFC loop. The charger uses a circle of rare-earth magnets.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">MacBook Pro (Apple silicon)</span> Current line of high-end notebook computers by Apple

The MacBook Pro with Apple silicon is a line of Mac notebook computers first introduced in November 2020 by Apple. It is the higher-end model of the MacBook family, sitting above the consumer-focused MacBook Air, and is currently sold with 14-inch and 16-inch screens. All models use Apple-designed M series systems on a chip.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">MacBook Pro (Intel-based)</span> Line of notebook computers

The Intel-based MacBook Pro is a discontinued line of Macintosh notebook computers sold by Apple Inc. from 2006 to 2021. It was the higher-end model of the MacBook family, sitting above the low-end plastic MacBook and the ultra-portable MacBook Air, and was sold with 13-inch to 17-inch screens.

References

  1. ↑ "Apple Unveils New MacBook with Intel Core 2 Duo Processors" (press release). Apple Inc. 8 November 2006.
  2. ↑ Vallese, Julie (4 July 2001). "'Break-Away' Cord Aims To Make Deep Fryers Safer". CNN . Retrieved 9 July 2012.
  3. ↑ "Break Away Power Cords, Durez 152". www.dowell.com.hk. Retrieved 9 June 2019.
  4. ↑ Prior art for Apple's Magsafe. Patents Stack Exchange
  5. ↑ Bowe, Tucker (28 May 2020). "What Ever Happened to One of the MacBook's Best Features?". Gear Patrol. Retrieved 14 October 2020.
  6. ↑ Fleishman, Glenn (12 March 2015). "Will your new MacBook crash to the ground without MagSafe? (Yes.)". Macworld. Retrieved 28 October 2016.
  7. ↑ Kastrenakes, Jacob (27 October 2016). "Apple is killing off MagSafe, one of the MacBook's best features". The Verge. Retrieved 28 October 2016.
  8. ↑ Tracy, Phillip (9 July 2019). "Apple Just Killed the MacBook Air with Good Keyboard and 12-inch MacBook". www.laptopmag.com. Retrieved 13 July 2019.
  9. ↑ "Apple's latest MacBook Pros have MagSafe, SD card slots and camera notches". Engadget. 18 October 2021. Retrieved 18 October 2021.
  10. ↑ Screen Rant: Does iPhone 13 Have MagSafe? Here's What You Should Know "The back of every iPhone 13 has a series of magnets that work with cases, chargers, etc. MagSafe-compatible accessories line up with these magnets"
  11. ↑ "MacBook". Apple Inc.
  12. ↑ "Intel-Based Apple Portables: Identifying the Right Power Adapter and Power Cord". Apple Inc. 7 July 2023.
  13. ↑ "Apple MagSafe Airline Adapter". Apple Inc. Archived from the original on 14 May 2011.
  14. ↑ "One of Apple's Best Ideas Ever — Made Worse", The New York Times , 30 July 2012, archived from the original on 1 June 2020
  15. ↑ "Apple brings MagSafe 3 to the new MacBook Pro". The Verge. 18 October 2021. Retrieved 19 October 2021.
  16. ↑ Porter, Jon (19 October 2021). "Apple's new 140 W charger can fast charge a lot more than just your MacBook Pro". The Verge. Retrieved 19 October 2021.
  17. ↑ Faulkner, Cameron (6 June 2022). "Apple announces redesigned MacBook Air with M2 chip and MagSafe". The Verge. Retrieved 16 June 2022.
  18. 1 2 Shirriff, Ken. "Teardown and exploration of Apple's Magsafe connector" . Retrieved 3 December 2013.
  19. ↑ Frakes, Dan (15 June 2007). "A Third-Party MagSafe Solution?". Mobile Mac (blog of Macworld). Retrieved 9 July 2012.
  20. ↑ "US District Court for the District of Northern California, Apple Inc. v Sanho Corporation" (PDF format).
  21. ↑ Cheng, Jacqui (18 October 2010). "HyperMac To Halt MagSafe Sales, Hopes To Appease Apple". Ars Technica . Retrieved 9 July 2012.
  22. ↑ Cheng, Jacqui (8 November 2011). "Frayed MagSafe Power Connector? There's Now a Settlement for That". Ars Technica . Retrieved 9 July 2012.
  23. ↑ "Class-Action Lawsuit Forces Apple To Replace Frayed MagSafe Power Cords". TechCrunch. 10 November 2011. Retrieved 7 July 2022.
  24. ↑ Lowensohn, Josh. "Apple settles split cord MagSafe lawsuit". CNET. Retrieved 7 July 2022.
  25. ↑ Cesa, Dante (8 November 2011). "Apple reaches settlement in MagSafe class action suit, dodges fireball". Engadget. Retrieved 7 July 2022.
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