Back in September 2017 Apple announced its plans to create a hybrid wireless charging pad capable of powering up an iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods case at the same time. This AirPower charger was supposed to launch in 2018, but it didn’t, instead in March 2019 Apple admitted defeat and sad that the project was cancelled – except it wasn’t, as in October 2020 Apple revealed plans to launch the MagSafe Duo charger.
MagSafe Duo is almost what AirPower promised: you can charge two items at once from the iPhone 12, Apple Watch or AirPods. You just can’t charge all three at once.
What is MagSafe Duo?
Apple claims the MagSafe Duo charger will charge compatible iPhone, Apple Watch, wireless charging case for AirPods and other Qi-certified devices.
To achieve this you need only place the devices on the charger as “a steady, efficient charge begins on contact”. The charger ships with a USB-C to Lightning cable one meter in length. You’ll also need to purchase a USB-C power adapter with 20 watts if you don’t already have one. Apple sells a 20W USB-C Power Adapter for £19.
MagSafe Duo Price
Apple has revealed the price for the duo charger for iPhone and Apple Watch. It’s still got no release date though – Apple lists it as “coming soon”.
The MagSafe Duo charger is a new Apple combo charging station for iPhone and Apple Watch enabling both devices to be charged in parallel. The MagSafe Duo will cost £129 when it launches. Apple lists it as “Coming soon”. When it arrives you’ll be able to buy MagSafe Duo from Apple.
MagSafe Duo Release Date
Apple just says that the MagSafe Duo is “Coming soon”. The price is now known so hopefully is will launch soon.
The MagSafe Duo charger has got its first regulator approval however, so it could be coming soon. The Korea regulatory body has confirmed that the MagSafe Duo Charger can go on sale there. We expect other regulatory bodies will be drawing the same conclusion.
We imagine Apple will be keen to get the duo charger out in time for Christmas.
Other MagSafe Products
The simple MagSafe charger already offers wireless charging for the iPhone 12 series via a magnet connection and costs £39. You can buy the MacSafe charger from Apple.
The new Leather Sleeve with MagSafe for the iPhone 12 and 12 Pro is also listed as “Coming Soon”. When it arrives it will also cost £129. Apple points out that the leather will acquire a “natural patina” over time and thus no longer look brand new, so to speak. Over time it could also get “wrinkles and stains”, and MagSafe accessories could also leave “slight marks”. You will be able to buy the Leather Sleeve with MagSafe from Apple.
Want to know more? We have a Complete guide to MagSafe.
And read this article if you are wondering about the AirPower release date.
