MagSafe
MagSafe is Apple's system of magnets built into the back of the iPhone, used to snap on accessories and line up wireless chargers. According to Apple it is on the iPhone 12 and later models, including the iPhone 17e and iPhone Air, but not the iPhone 16e or the iPhone SE.
What does MagSafe mean?
The name joins magnetic and safe. On the iPhone it describes a ring of magnets around the wireless charging coil in the back of the phone. Anything built for MagSafe, such as a charger, a wallet, a case or a car mount, finds the right position and holds on by itself.
How does MagSafe work?
The magnets do two jobs. They hold the accessory on, and they line a wireless charger up with the phone's charging coil, so it charges without you having to find the right spot. Apple's own MagSafe Charger uses this alignment for faster wireless charging on supported models.
Which iPhones have MagSafe?
- — iPhone 12, 13, 14 and 15 models.
- — iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max.
- — iPhone 17, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max, iPhone Air and iPhone 17e.
- — Later models listed on Apple's MagSafe page.
- — Not the iPhone 16e or the iPhone SE. Apple describes these as Qi-compatible instead.
MagSafe in the car
With MagSafe, a magnetic car phone holder holds the phone directly: you bring it close and it snaps on, with nothing stuck to the phone. Phones without MagSafe, including Android phones, can use the same kind of mount with a metal ring on the back of the phone or case.
MagSafe works through a MagSafe-compatible case. A thick case without magnets weakens the hold. Our guide on magnetic mount compatibility covers cases, cards and the camera.