When Apple announced the first MacBook Pro models back in January 2006 , one of the most - touted raw feature was in reality a relatively minor one from a computer hardware standpoint : the MagSafe power connector . This origination , which has expand beyond the MacBook Pro to the MacBook line , as well , utilise a smashing magnetized innovation to connect the power arranger to the laptop computer . As we explained it back then , “ The MagSafe power connector safely disconnects from the notebook computer when there is nervous strain on the power cord , helping to forestall the notebook computer from falling off its work surface if the power corduroy is inadvertently yanked . ”
As someone who ’s seen his laptop take more than a few falls over the years when someone trip over a power electric cord , I love the MagSafe connector . ( Well , except for when it occasionally comes lose and I do n’t find , but that ’s what Unplugged is for . ) It ’s one of those “ Why did n’t anyone do this before ? ” features .
But the popularity — and vital praise — of the MagSafe connective raises an obvious question , one that popped into my head yet again while packing for a recent trip-up : Where are the third - party MagSafe accessories ?
In the past , I ’ve written about Kensington’sThin & Light power adaptersand iGo’sjuice70 — product that , via standardized tip , let you use a unmarried power adapter with several twist , and even multiple devices simultaneously . Just as important , these product work with multiple power sources : AC rampart outlets , car accessory jacks ( otherwise know as the “ cigarette lighter ” gob ) , and airline - stern ( EmPower ) DC power ports . In other dustup , you’re able to make for along a individual power adapter for all your gadgets and nearly any power source , making such a ware a must - have for road warriors . Other force options includeLind ’s power battalion , lithium - ion - battery “ plates ” that offer up to 8 hours of baron , as well as AC adapters from company such asBTI , Madsonline , andMCEthat are much smaller and light than Apple ’s offering .
Unfortunately , with the introduction of the MagSafe connecter , these product were no longer compatible with the in vogue Apple laptop computer . I had assume this would change as marketer update their products to figure out with the MacBook and MacBook Pro , but here we are , nearly a year and a one-half later , and the only vendor give top executive Cartesian product for these Apple laptop is , well , Apple . The release of an Apple - brandedMagSafe Airline Adapterlast fall was welcome word , but that $ 59 accouterment does n’t work with automobile office jacks and add yet another opus of paraphernalia to your laptop computer bag . ( Two or more , really — you require to carry Apple ’s AC and Airline adapters as well as arranger for your other geartrain . )
Why the paucity of third - party MagSafe products ? Because the MagSafe connector is a patented technology and , according to a Kensington illustration , Apple has thus far not license the use of that applied science to other vendors . Specifically , Apple has provide supplement makers with the following instruction : “ Apple , at the present consequence , does not have any plans on licensing the MagSafe notebook connective to any third - political party top executive adapter manufacturers . ” Apple provided a similar financial statement toMacworldin the past , though noting that the company was looking into the market ; we asked for a confirmation that this is still the official insurance , but Apple had n’t responded at the time of issue . We ’ll jubilantly update this post once we hear back from the company .
Interestingly , iGo recently recently added to its Web web site aproduct pagefor “ notebook tip S32 ” for the MacBook and MacBook Pro ; the page notes that the tip is presently being developed . I expect iGo whether or not the caller was developing this tip severally , but I have n’t yet received a reaction .
