Apple releases MagSafe Battery Pack for iPhone

Apple has launched a new $99 MagSafe Battery Pack for the iPhone 12 range, which automatically charges alongside the phone.

Following previous rumors that Apple has been developing a pair of MagSafe Battery Packs for the iPhone, the company has now released one on the Apple Store.

"Its compact, intuitive design makes on-the-go charging easy," says the Apple Store Listing. "The perfectly aligned magnets keep it attached to your iPhone 12 or iPhone 12 Pro — providing safe and reliable wireless charging."

"And it automatically charges, so there's no need to turn it on or off," continues Apple. "There's no interference with your credit cards or key fobs either."

The MagSafe Battery Pack sports a capacity of 1,460mAh and the pack itself can be charged at up to either 15W or 20W, depending on connection. Significantly, the new pack is only able to charge an iPhone 12 mini to around 60%, or an iPhone 12 Pro Max to 50%.

"Just plug a Lightning cable into the MagSafe Battery Pack for up to 15W of wireless charging," continues Apple. "With a higher than 20W power adapter, you can charge both the MagSafe Battery Pack and your iPhone even faster."

Apple notes that iOS 14.7 is required for the MagSafe Battery Pack. Also, it must be fully charged the first time it used, with a Lightning to USB-C cable and 20W or higher power adaptor.

The MagSafe Battery Pack costs $99 in the Apple Store. It does not come with either an adaptor or cable. Apple recommends a USB-C to Lightning cable, and "20W or higher USB-C Power Adapter."

This model also appears to feature a form of reverse charging, a first for Apple's iPhone lineup. According to an accompanying support document released today, the battery pack can be charged from an iPhone that is plugged into a power source.

Updated to include information about capacity and reverse charging capabilities.

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