Android Users Can Use MagSafe Accessories With Magnetic Cases or Ring Attachments, Engadget Reports

Apple introduced MagSafe for the iPhone 12 lineup in 2020. Engadget said the feature became part of the iPhone’s design, and that when the iPhone 16e launched without it, the omission was discussed in nearly every review. The report also recalled earlier hardware experiments that did not last, including 3D Touch on iPhone, the Touch Bar on MacBooks, Motorola’s Moto Mods and Essential’s magnetic accessory connector.

Some Android manufacturers have adopted similar magnetic charging systems through the Qi2 standard, according to Engadget. Google’s phones have Pixelsnap, and the HMD Skyline from 2024 was one of the first Android smartphones with built-in magnets. Even so, the report said the feature is still not widely available on Android phones.

For Android users, one option is a phone case with built-in magnets. Engadget reported that Samsung and OnePlus sell official cases with built-in magnets, and that third-party cases may sometimes be substantially cheaper. Such cases often advertise the function clearly, and users can also look for the distinctive magnetic ring on the back or inside the case. After putting the phone in the case, the phone can work with MagSafe accessories.

The report said the downside is limited choice in case appearance and feel. Some less popular phone models may not have magnetic cases on the market. For those phones, magnetic ring conversion kits are an alternative. These attach to the back of an existing phone case, usually with 3M adhesive, and allow magnetic accessories to attach. Engadget cited the ESR MagSafe Sticker as a popular Amazon option with more than 12,500 reviews, but said it is not designed to stick directly to a phone, so a case is still needed.

Engadget said magnetic cases and ring attachments are not as clean or convenient as the built-in mechanism on iPhone, but they are a quick way to add compatibility. Before using one with a MagSafe car mount or wallet, users should make sure the magnetic hold is strong enough to keep the accessory attached. The report added that many third-party cases offer a stronger magnetic hold than a caseless iPhone.

Editor's Summary

Engadget reported that Android users can access MagSafe accessories through magnetic phone cases or magnetic ring attachments, with wireless charging required for charging accessories. The method expands accessory use beyond iPhone, although case choice and phone models can limit the options. The report advised users to check magnetic strength before relying on mounts or wallets.