Unveiling a Hidden Feature of the iPhone 16e
As I embarked on my review journey for the iPhone 16e (stay tuned for the full breakdown at Macworld!), an unexpected finding caught my attention that warrants discussion.
This past Monday, I penned an article lamenting the absence of MagSafe functionality in Apple’s latest iPhone model, identifying it as one of my foremost grievances. Having navigated and evaluated multiple iterations of iPhones equipped with MagSafe over several years, I find myself apprehensive about reverting to wireless charging that demands pinpoint precision in alignment.
A Surprising Revelation
To illustrate my points with photographic evidence, I removed my iPhone 16e from its unveiling-the-turbulent-high-tech-journey-of-ottawa-jim-bagnalls-telecom-tornado-book-excerpt/” title=”Unveiling the Turbulent High-Tech Journey of Ottawa: Jim Bagnall's Telecom Tornado (Book Excerpt)”>case and tested it with an older MagSafe charger. To my astonishment, I discovered that while there isn’t a robust magnetic connection, there is indeed some attraction between the charger’s magnets and the iPhone 16e itself.
For this interaction to occur smoothly, it’s essential to ensure your phone is not encased—unless you’re using a compatible MagSafe case. Upon testing with Apple’s silicone cover, however, any chance of a connection vanished. Positioning your device correctly over the charging area produces an audible snap (which you can catch in the accompanying video). Carefully lifting your phone reveals that it remains latched onto the puck—albeit tentatively.
Caution Advised
Despite this intriguing discovery, usage should be approached cautiously. The magnetic link is tenuous; any rapid movement or twisting action may result in detachment. It’s wise to avoid testing your phone’s drop resistance without a case since doing so could lead to unintended accidents. Particularly inadvisable would be relying on this setup for magnetic car mounts or bedside docks—it simply wouldn’t hold up under those conditions (and importantly, Apple does not endorse such use cases). Nonetheless, it confirms whether you’ve aligned your cable accurately when placed on flat surfaces.
A Query for Clarification
I’ve reached out to Apple seeking clarification on whether this behavior is intended functionality or merely an unforeseen perk; I will share their insights once available.
The Limitations at Play
This newfound realization certainly has its constraints. Despite showing weak attraction towards certain MagSafe accessories, it’s crucial to note that compatibility with standard MagSafe charging isn’t present in the 16e model; therefore higher charging speeds remain unreachable. Additionally, needing to operate without a protective case presents challenges for those who prioritize safeguarding their devices—myself included.
A Silver Lining for Brave Users
If you belong to that audacious group who prefers going caseless altogether, consider noticing how effortlessly your 16e aligns itself into place when positioned near compatible chargers as minor solace amidst these shortcomings.