Originally the connector was T-shaped, with the cable directed straight out later it became L-shaped, with the cable directed along the side of the computer, but still capable of being inserted in either orientation, unless simultaneous use of neighboring ports such as USB required directing the cable toward the rear.

MagSafe has connector pins that are designed so the rectangular connector can be inserted in either orientation. Īpple also uses the MagSafe name for a wireless power transfer and accessory-attachment standard for the iPhone based on the Qi standard, introduced with the iPhone 12 and 12 Pro.

The MagSafe connector returned in 2021 with the introduction of updated 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models. The last product with MagSafe, the 2017 MacBook Air, was discontinued on July 9, 2019. 7311526 for MagSafe ('Magnetic connector for electronic device', issued in 2007) as MagSafe was deemed to be a sufficient improvement due to the connector being symmetrical and reversible, and the fact that magnets within a connector are arranged in opposing polarities for improved coupling strength.Īpple phased out MagSafe with the release of the 12-inch MacBook and 2016 MacBook Pro that replaced it with USB-C for charging and data. MagSafe was introduced on Januin the first-generation MacBook Pro. The basic concept of MagSafe is derived from the magnetic power connectors that are part of many deep fryers and Japanese countertop cooking appliances since the early 2000s in order to avoid spilling their dangerously hot contents. MagSafe returned to Mac laptops with the introduction of updated MacBook Pro models with MagSafe 3 in 2021. It was discontinued across Apple's product lines between 20 and replaced with USB-C. A thinner and wider version, called MagSafe 2, was introduced in 2012. The connector is held in place magnetically so that if it is tugged (for example, by someone tripping over the cord) it will pull out of the socket without damaging the connector or the computer power socket, and without pulling the computer off of its surface. MagSafe was introduced on January 10, 2006, in conjunction with the MacBook Pro, the first Intel-based Mac laptop, at the Macworld Expo. MagSafe is a series of proprietary magnetically attached power connectors developed by Apple Inc. Gray area indicates magnetic connector shroud An L-shaped first-generation MagSafe connector in use on a MacBook Pro

2009 macbook pro charger showing orange