Here’s how Apple could bring MagSafe to USB-C

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When Apple left off MagSafe connection to its USB-C MacBook, Griffin came up with a solution.
When Apple left off MagSafe connection to its USB-C MacBook, Griffin came up with a solution.
Photo: Griffin

Apple killed its awesome MagSafe power connection feature on the new MacBook Pro, but based on a new patent filing, the beloved port could be ready to make a comeback.

USB-C replaced MagSafe on the MacBook Pro because it can handle both power and data on a single port. It lacks the brilliant safety features of MagSafe. Hwever, it looks like Apple found a workaround similar to Griffin’s magnetic BreakSafe cables.

The United States Patent and Trademark Office received a patent filing from Apple in January 2016 that described a “Magnetic Adapter” for USB-C. Apple was granted the patent at the end of March 2017.

In the description, Apple’s engineers say it would enable “MagSafe chargers to be used to charge devices having Universal Serial Bus Type-C connector receptacles. This also may provide the breakaway characteristic of a MagSafe connector system for a device that does not include a MagSafe connector receptacle.”

Here’s what it might look like based on patent drawings:

magsafe for usb-c
It’s not as elegant as MagSafe, but it’ll do.
Image: Apple

Of course, just because Apple filed a patent for this magnetic adapter doesn’t mean the company will release it as a product. Unfortunately, if it ever does come out, you’ll need to buy yet another USB-C dongle.

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