Apple has introduced a brand-new MagSafe battery pack designed exclusively for the iPhone Air. Priced at US$99, this accessory promises to extend video playback by up to 40 hours when paired with the iPhone Air, but isn’t compatible with other recent models like the iPhone 17 or 17 Pro.
Why Only iPhone Air?
Apple specifies that this new battery is solely for the iPhone Air. The company cites physical design constraints—particularly the different camera module design and the unusual slim profile of the Air—as reasons preventing compatibility with the iPhone 17 lineup. Because of its thin and lightweight design, the new battery and its form factor align closely with the Air’s build; other devices, especially ones with raised camera modules or design variations, would not be able to attach or align properly.
Battery Performance & User Experience
When attached to the iPhone Air, the MagSafe battery is said to provide a significant boost in usage: smartphone users can expect longer video playback, and stronger battery endurance during daily usage, especially when the pack remains connected throughout the day. Charging is described as fast and seamless.
The battery pack itself is thin, lightweight, and styled to fit in with the premium materials and design aesthetic of the iPhone Air—including its titanium frame. The goal is to make it feel less like a bulky accessory and more like an elegant extension of the phone.
Companion Accessories & Ecosystem
To complement the new MagSafe battery pack, Apple is also introducing matching accessories for the iPhone Air. These include a specially designed MagSafe case in “Frost” and “Shadow” finishes with a reinforced frame, a bumper, and a crossbody strap. Apple is focusing on creating a coordinated accessory ecosystem around its thinnest phone.
What It Means for Users
For iPhone Air users, the new battery pack offers a strong benefit—especially for those who consume video, travel, or want extra power between charges. But for those with other iPhone models, this release highlights design tradeoffs when mixing accessories across phone variants. The exclusion of the iPhone 17 and Pro models has sparked discussion among Apple fans about accessory compatibility.
Overall, Apple’s strategy with this accessory seems clear: enhance user experience for the Air line by reinforcing its identity with exclusive match-ups, while emphasizing design, material congruence, and seamless daily usability.