Apple Insider reports that we may soon see more accessories in different colors and finishes as Apple makes newer MagSafe modules available to more accessory manufacturers. After all, the white silicone finish you see at first doesn’t always match the aesthetic appeal of the product. Still, any accessory that wants to be officially certified will have to go through a rigorous MFi process.
(Image via Apple Insider)
In the case of the magnetic charging accessory for the Apple Watch, for example, Apple provides the proprietary charging module directly to manufacturers to be built into their products, as does the Lighting connector.
Apple then gets the finished product and conducts various safety and performance tests, before assigning a dedicated ID once it has been certified by MFi.
Various MFi certification labels
Officially, this ensures that third-party devices meet Apple’s high standards of safety and performance – the same level of quality assurance as buying an original Apple product.
For those interested, pick up an accessory in its box and look for the ‘Made for iPhone / iPad’ certification mark on it.
Example of MagSafe component construction
Although the manufacturer has been relentless in its efforts to introduce new products, MagSafe accessories to date – whether Nomad or Belkin – have only had the same bright white, soft-touch MagSafe finish.
Apple has also made things a little confusing when it comes to wireless charging, as users can choose between Qi or MagSafe. But with the non-MFi certified magnetic wireless charger, the power is reduced from 15W to 7.5W.
Anker 3-in-1 MagSafe accessory
The good news is that Apple is now rolling out an updated MFi MagSafe component. Not only does it have “full speed” (15W) charging power, but it can also cover a wide range of different surface materials.
In other words, we’ll soon see MagSafe accessories in a variety of shapes, premium leather surfaces and interesting patterns.
