Man and woman talking on iPhones in clear Otterbox phone cases, on yellow background

latest-news| MAR 4, 2026

What is MagSafe?

MagSafe is a magnetic system made up of a ring of magnets built into the backs of iPhone models starting with the iPhone 12. The ring of magnets creates convenience, including simplified wireless charging and the ability to connect and swap various accessories. In other words, MagSafe uses magnetic alignment to help compatible chargers and accessories connect securely to your iPhone.

How does MagSafe work?

MagSafe works by using magnets around the charging coil inside the phone to guide chargers and accessories into the correct position automatically. The magnetic alignment creates a consistent way to dock with a MagSafe charging stand or MagSafe charging case. The magnetic connection helps keep the charger or accessory properly aligned with the phone during use.

Explore MagSafe Charging Stands

MagSafe also creates a brilliant platform for connecting and swapping accessories. MagSafe wallets snap right to the back of a phone, allowing you to leave home with just the essentials and travel lighter. MagSafe is all about tapping into your phone’s inner strengths to boost its outer capabilities.

Explore MagSafe Accessories

Which iPhones have MagSafe?

Every iPhone since the iPhone 12 has MagSafe built in. That means MagSafe charging and snap-on accessories are supported on all newer iPhone models.

Do I need a MagSafe case?

You don't need a MagSafe case to use an iPhone, but a compatible case can help maintain the magnetic connection when using MagSafe chargers and accessories.

We also make a range of OtterBox MagSafe iPhone cases with built-in magnets that snap securely to chargers and MagSafe accessories. But not every case is magnetized because not everyone uses MagSafe.

If you’re interested in getting the most out of the MagSafe system, using MagSafe compatible cases help maintain proper alignment and attachment when charging or using accessories.

What’s the difference between MagSafe and Qi2?

MagSafe is Apple's magnetic technology for compatible iPhone models, while Qi2 is a wireless charging standard developed by the Wireless Power Consortium. Both use magnetic alignment with compatible devices and chargers, but charging capabilities and compatibility depend on the specific device and accessory.

Explore wireless charging options from OtterBox.

For more informaiton about choosing a MagSafe case, see our MagSafe phone case guide.

FAQs about MagSafe technology

If a case’s name ends with “for MagSafe” or if it says “MagSafe compatible,” it’s outfitted with a built-in ring of magnets to ensure a secure connection.

The magnets in your phone are only so strong. And if there’s too much of a gap between the device and the MagSafe accessory, then there’s no connection.

A MagSafe case helps maintain proper magnetic alignment between your phone, chargers and accessories. This improves attachment strength and makes wireless charging more reliable during everyday use.

Yes, MagSafe works through phone cases – but only if the case is MagSafe-compatible and includes built-in magnets. Cases without magnets can weaken the connection or prevent accessories from attaching securely.

MagSafe cases are phone cases with integrated magnets that allow MagSafe chargers and accessories to snap securely into place while still protecting your phone.

All iPhone models starting with iPhone 12 include the MagSafe system. Earlier models do not support MagSafe charging or accessories.

Yes, OtterBox phone cases for MagSafe are designed with built-in magnets to support MagSafe charging and compatible snap-on accessories.

MagSafe accessories require compatible devices and cases to work properly, and non-MagSafe cases may reduce charging efficiency or attachment strength.