Apple has come out with an explanation as to why the new iPhone 16e does not feature MagSafe capabilities. This comes a week after the company dismissed allegations that the new C1 modem was the root cause.
Speaking to Daring Fireball‘s John Gruber, an Apple representative explained that the decision to not include MagSafe was because of the iPhone 16e’s target audience. “Most people in the iPhone 16e’s target audience exclusively charge their phones by plugging them into a charging cable,” it’s been said.
To Apple, the difference between the 7.5W Qi charging speeds and those supported via MagSafe wasn’t enough to justify MagSafe’s inclusion for the “target audience” that prefers wireless charging. It appears as though the cost analysis determined it would be more beneficial to not support MagSafe and reduce costs. As it turns out, the cost reduction by any means is crucial seeing as the iPhone 16e launched starting at $899 in Canada.
However, it is unfortunate that iPhone 16e users won’t be able to take advantage of the many MagSafe accessories. Since launching MagSafe for iPhone in 2020, Apple has developed and shipped many MagSafe products for iPhone. This includes wallet accessories, battery packs, and mounts for desktops and tripods. Without proper MagSafe support, iPhone 16e customers won’t be able to use these products.
It’s worth pointing out that the iPhone 16e’s predecessor, the discontinued iPhone SE, also lacked true MagSafe functionality. So, the introduction of the iPhone 16e wasn’t necessarily a step back for the entry-level (now teetering into mid-range) iPhone series.
In weeks prior, it was speculated that the iPhone 16e was unable to support MagSafe because of the new C1 modem, improving 5G connectivity. However, Apple came out to clear the air and stated that was not the case. However, while dismantling early speculations, the company never quite unveiled the true reasoning until now.
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I opted for a clearance iPhone 12 – that does include MagSafe support – for $299 at Walmart instead. Although, I do suppose that the added battery life may mean I wouldn't need the battery pack support, but it's what I use for my wallet now, and for $600 more just for Apple Intelligence in its infancy? Personally, I can't justify it
The optimized charging part of the Magsafe, I do agree with them actually… but could they have included the magnets so all accessories are compatible (car holder and all). I use it in my car… having the slower Qi charging doesn't botter me at all.
Now… if it's not because of the modem chip, I can buy a case that includes magnets, or not. The choice is mine and if the phone can be sold cheaper for this reason, I'm all good with that!