iPhone 12 Supports 15W Charging Only with MagSafe
Other Qi Chargers Limited to 7.5W Speed
Adapter Cost Passed to Consumers... Even Apple Fans Dissatisfied
[Asia Economy Reporter Han Jinju] Apple has removed charging adapters from all iPhone packages starting with the iPhone 12 and introduced a new wireless charger called "MagSafe." Although the iPhone 12 supports 15W wireless charging, it has been designed to charge at the maximum speed only when using MagSafe.
On the 13th (local time), IT specialist media The Verge reported that the iPhone 12 technical specifications page indicates that wireless charging supports 15W when using MagSafe, while standard Qi chargers support 7.5W charging.
This means that to use 15W wireless charging on the iPhone 12, you must use MagSafe products. The Verge explained, "Since the iPhone 8 released in 2017, iPhones have supported wireless charging with the open Qi standard, but Apple introduced MagSafe allowing up to 15W speeds. However, only MagSafe chargers, not third-party chargers, are permitted."
This move could be seen as a marketing tactic by Apple to increase MagSafe sales. MagSafe is a wireless charger that attaches magnetically to the back of the iPhone. Magnets are arranged around the wireless charging coil so that charging works properly even if the phone is not placed exactly in the center. It can charge even when a case is on. The price is $39.
Third-party accessory manufacturers can also make magnetic Qi chargers, but to support 15W charging, they must cooperate with Apple. The Verge explained, "Manufacturers like Belkin can release MagSafe chargers, but to support faster charging speeds, they need to collaborate with Apple through the MFi licensing program." Apple provides accessory development guidelines to developers who have obtained the MFi license.
Meanwhile, Apple has excluded charging adapters from existing models starting with the iPhone 12 release. Although the stated purpose is "environmental protection" to reduce power adapter waste, consumer complaints are strong. The USB-C to Lightning cable included in the iPhone 12 package is compatible with chargers first provided in the iPhone 11 Pro package. iPhone users who purchased older models have no choice but to use old chargers and cables, and to use the cable included with the iPhone 12 (USB-C to Lightning cable), they must purchase a separate compatible charging adapter. This has led to criticism that Apple is passing the cost of chargers onto consumers.
At the iPhone 12 launch event, Apple explained, "There are 2 billion Apple power adapters scattered worldwide, and reducing raw material consumption for iPhones can reduce carbon emissions. This change will have the effect of reducing over 2 million tons of carbon emissions, equivalent to removing 450,000 cars from the road."
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