PopSockets will be integrating support for Apple’s MagSafe technology, as confirmed by TechCrunch – indicating that these widely-used iPhone attachments will soon be able to be easily connected and disconnected without the concern of adhesive degradation requiring cleaning.

MagSafe, Apple’s branding for charging, is now the company’s latest system for both wireless iPhone charging and the simple attachment of accessories, unveiled during today’s Apple iPhone presentation.

The new arrangement of magnets surrounding the wireless charging coil will allow for improved alignment when the iPhone is used with Apple’s MagSafe Charger and MagSafe Duo Charger – which are designed for wirelessly powering the iPhone 12 and the Apple Watch, respectively.

This system also allows for a variety of MagSafe accessories to function with the iPhone 12.

Apple is releasing its own accessories, including new cases in silicone, leather, and clear finishes that readily attach to the back of the iPhone 12 models, along with a detachable iPhone wallet. The company also stated on Tuesday that consumers can anticipate a selection of MagSafe accessories from various third-party manufacturers.

Prior to the Apple event, I found myself considering PopSockets. Therefore, when MagSafe was revealed, my immediate thought was regarding PopSockets! 

I suspect I am not the only one.

Since its launch in 2014, the company has sold over 165 million PopSockets Grips and has broadened its range of phone-back attachments to encompass numerous variations – such as PopSockets incorporating mirrors or lip gloss, miniature versions, PopSockets with wallets, Otter + PopSockets phone cases, and even PopSockets designed to complement your nail color. (They also now offer face masks to coordinate with your PopSockets.)

PopSockets Grips are reusable, but their adhesive properties can diminish over time. The company recommends rinsing the attachment and allowing it to air dry for approximately 10 minutes before reattaching it to the iPhone and letting it sit for a few hours.

This process can be somewhat inconvenient, which led the company to introduce PopSockets Grips with interchangeable tops, known as PopTops.

However, a line of MagSafe-compatible PopSockets products (Grips, wallets, or others) would eliminate concerns about adhesive wear. This could encourage users to purchase more of these iPhone accessories – potentially building a collection they can easily exchange to match their attire or preferences.

It also suggests that users might be able to avoid using a case with their iPhone – a practice currently common among iPhone 11 users – to benefit from PopSockets Grips.

Conversely, this could increase competition within the accessories market, as companies would no longer need to surpass the engineering of the Grips and their patented technology. Instead, competitors could simply expand their current product lines with MagSafe-compatible items at a higher price point, thereby increasing their revenue.

PopSockets confirms that MagSafe products are under development, but details are not being disclosed at this time. The company clarifies that it did not specifically confirm the creation of PopGrips.

Note: Image does not depict MagSafe-compatible products.