MagSafe for iPhone 12 uses a magnetic connection to attach a wireless charger and a potentially endless supply of magnetic accessories you can snap on, such as cases, docks, mounts and even a wallet.
For more like this
Subscribe to the Apple Report newsletter, receive notifications and see related stories on CNET.
We’ll test MagSafe on the iPhone 12 as soon as possible. In the meantime, here’s a look at what Apple says MagSafe does, how it works and how you might use it once you upgrade. And here’s why MagSafe is Apple’s sleeper feature that’s bigger than you think.
Now playing: Watch this:
Apple boosts iPhone 12 with MagSafe tech for better wireless…
3:39
How does MagSafe work on the iPhone?
The new iPhone 12 devices are embedded with what Apple describes as “an array of magnets” (Apple says they’re recycled) around a centered charging coil that can pull up to 15 watts of power — twice as powerful as wireless charging on previous iPhones (but on par with phones from other brands).
When you bring the charging end of the power cord close to the iPhone’s back, those magnets will pull it into place. The same goes for other MagSafe accessories and, depending what you’re clipping on, your iPhone will display a brief animation related to the accessory to confirm that it’s locked on.
Now playing: Watch this:
iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Mini, Pro and Pro Max explained
9:16
Will new iPhones come with a MagSafe charging cable?
No, Apple will include only a USB-C-to-Lightning cable (and no power brick or earbuds) in the box with new iPhones. Apple’s two MagSafe charging cables — one standalone and another that also charges an Apple Watch — will be sold separately, but Apple confirmed that at least one other manufacturer, Belkin, will be selling MagSafe-compatible charging cables as well.
How much will Apple’s MagSafe accessories cost and when will they go on sale?
The standalone MagSafe iPhone charger is available for preorder for $39, with shipping listed as two to three weeks. Clear and silicone cases cost $49 with shipping in 7 to 10 business days. The leather wallet costs $59 and ships in five to six weeks. No word yet on the dual iPhone and Apple Watch charger’s price or availability.
Apple also unveiled a MagSafe-compatible leather wallet that clips on to new iPhones and costs $59.
Beyond that, you can expect third-party accessory makers to use their imaginations in the coming weeks and months. Possibilities include mounts, like for the dash in your car, and docks for your nightstand, table or desk.
Won’t the magnets mess up my bank cards?
Apple says the wallet accessory is specially shielded to prevent damage to credit cards, debit cards and the like.
Now playing: Watch this:
iPhone 12 Mini: Small phone, big potential
7:31
Does MagSafe mess up waterproofing?
No, every iPhone 12 is rated IP68, meaning water resistant up to 6 meters for 30 minutes. In fact, MagSafe wireless charging may lead to even greater waterproofing, if Apple ever decides to go portless.
Do I have to use MagSafe to charge my iPhone?
No, every iPhone 12 will come packaged with a USB-C-to-Lightning cable (you’ll need to supply the power brick). The Lightning port on the phone itself will be backward-compatible with the Lightning chargers you already own.
MagSafe accessories like chargers and the wallet can be stacked atop others, like cases.
Apple
Will my current wireless charger work with the new iPhones?
Yes, the new iPhones are backward-compatible with existing Qi-enabled wireless charging devices. If your old device supplies 7.5 watts of power, that’s how much your new iPhone will draw, but it’s capable of pulling up to 15 watts.
Interestingly, the new MagSafe charger is also backward-compatible with older iPhones (but will only deliver 7.5 watts).
The Motorola Z3 used magnets to connect to accessories (called “Moto Mods”) all the way back in 2016.
Tyler Lizenby/CNET
How did MagSafe work on MacBooks?
The original MagSafe on MacBooks was a way to magnetically attach Apple’s proprietary power cable to the laptop, designed to snap off with a tug. It was included in the name of safety.
Accidentally tripping over a power cord no longer meant worrying about launching your laptop across the room or falling yourself, since the magnet was powerful enough to connect the cable but still loose enough to pull free in the event of a mishap. On the iPhone, MagSafe seems to be more about mobility, making it easier to connect and disconnect to both power and accessories.
CHICAGO (AP) — United Airlines has struck a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to offer satellite-based Starlink WiFi service on flights within the next several years.
The airline said Friday the service will be free to passengers.
United said it will begin testing the service early next year and begin offering it on some flights by later in 2025.
Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.
The announcement comes as airlines rush to offer more amenities as a way to stand out when passengers pick a carrier for a trip. United’s goal is to make sitting on a plane pretty much like being on the ground when it comes to browsing the internet, streaming entertainment and playing games.
“Everything you can do on the ground, you’ll soon be able to do on board a United plane at 35,000 feet, just about anywhere in the world,” CEO Scott Kirby said in announcing the deal.
The airline says Starlink will allow passengers to get internet access even over oceans and polar regions where traditional cell or Wi-Fi signals may be weak or missing.
Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:
Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.
Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers
While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:
Best Buy Canada
Walmart Canada
EB Games (GameStop)
Amazon Canada
The Source
Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:
Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.
3. Sign Up for Notifications
Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.
Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.
4. Prepare for High Demand
Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:
Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.
Final Thoughts
The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.
For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.
Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.
Key Features of the PS5 Pro
The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:
Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.
Optimized Games & Patches
Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:
Alan Wake 2
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Demon’s Souls
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Gran Turismo 7
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Horizon Forbidden West
These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.
Design & Compatibility
Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.
Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.
Pricing & Availability
The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:
$699.99 USD
$949.99 CAD
£699.99 GBP
€799.99 EUR
¥119,980 JPY
Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.
The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.
Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.
