Apple’s New Charger Has a Boost Trick (If You Use It Right) | One More Thing

Apple's new 40-watt dynamic power adapter intelligently adjusts its power output based on the connected device, offering a 60-watt boost for short periods to MacBooks and optimizing charge times for the latest iPhones, with variations depending on the iPhone model and charging method.

• Apple's 40-watt dynamic charger intelligently adjusts power output based on the connected device.

• Fast charging for iPhones depends on matching the charger's wattage to the phone's maximum intake and using compatible cables.

• MagSafe charging speeds vary by charger version and phone model, with newer MagSafe adopting the Qi 2.2 standard for improved performance and thermal management.

Apple's new 40-watt dynamic power adapter is a smart charger that can temporarily deliver up to 60 watts to compatible devices like MacBooks, while optimizing its sustained output for iPhones, typically 40 watts for newer models. Achieving the fastest charging speeds requires understanding specific device wattage needs and using appropriate cables and chargers, as not all accessories provide the same performance. Careful consideration of charger and cable wattage can lead to efficient charging without overspending.

Apple Dynamic Charger

• 00:00:00 Apple's new 40-watt dynamic power adapter behaves differently from typical chargers, intelligently communicating with the connected device to provide the maximum wattage it can handle. While it can deliver a brief 60-watt burst for devices like MacBooks, it sustains 40 watts and supplies iPhones with their maximum intake, which is less than 60 watts. This compact adapter, costing $40, achieves this dynamic power delivery through advanced engineering, allowing short sprints of higher wattage.

iPhone Fast Charging

• 00:02:24 Newer iPhone models like the iPhone 17 and 17 Pro benefit from a 40-watt or higher power adapter, achieving 50% battery in approximately 20 minutes with a 40-watt charger. The iPhone Air, however, maxes out at 20 watts, taking 30 minutes to reach 50% battery. It is crucial to use the appropriate USB-C cord, ideally the one provided with the device, as not all cables deliver the same wattage, and matching cable capacity to charger output is essential for optimal results.

MagSafe Charging Speeds

• 00:04:15 MagSafe wireless charging generally does not charge as fast as wired charging, with speeds varying by phone model and the MagSafe charger version. The first Apple MagSafe chargers provided up to 15 watts, while the second version, released in 2024 with a braided cord, delivers up to 25 watts. For optimal MagSafe results, a plug adapter of at least 30 watts is recommended, with current iPhone models supporting between 20 and 25 watts, except for the iPhone 16e, which uses basic 7.5-watt Qi wireless charging.

Charging Innovation

• 00:05:54 The charging landscape is evolving with innovations from various companies, including Google's Pixel Flex 67-watt charger. Apple's newer MagSafe technology has been standardized under the Wireless Power Consortium's Qi 2.2, allowing third-party companies to develop compatible MagSafe chargers that deliver similar wattage. This standardization also incorporates smart temperature management, as excessive heat can slow down charging, leading some charging stands to include built-in cooling features like fans.