Ever since the introduction of Apple’s MagSafe, a magnetic mounting system for iPhones, my Android preferences have left me longing for a similar feature. Regardless of the Android phone I switch to, the absence of MagSafe has always left me wishing for the convenience of snapping my phone onto various stands and accessories.
While the prospect of a MagSafe-like feature for Android is in the works with Qi2 and the Wireless Power Consortium, it’s not available yet. In the meantime, I’ve found a cost-effective solution: magnetic ring plates.
A magnetic ring plate essentially replicates the MagSafe concept. By affixing it to the back of your phone, you can easily attach your device to magnetic stands and accessories for optimal viewing and charging. This addresses the common issue with traditional wireless chargers where slight movements can misalign the charging coil and weaken power delivery.
One such solution I discovered is Spigen’s interpretation, which I included in a list of unique tech deals for the holiday season. Priced at $17, this add-on has become a staple in my daily carry. Applying the mount is hassle-free, thanks to an installation guide that overlays your phone’s rear camera bump, ensuring precise adhesion of the ring. While there are cheaper ring plates available on Amazon, many lack this guide frame, making the installation less precise.
The mounting kit is designed to be compatible with virtually every smartphone, including those with wide camera bars like the more recent Google Pixel phones. However, in my testing, there was one exception – the frame couldn’t accommodate the large camera bump of the OnePlus Open.
In conclusion, until Android devices incorporate MagSafe-like features, magnetic ring plates offer an affordable and practical alternative, providing the convenience of easy mounting for various accessories.
