Updated September 2026: in 2021 I argued Apple should make its own power bank for iPhone, iPad, AirPods and Mac users, since third-party options were not endorsed by Apple and had compatibility problems. I have rewritten it with what Apple actually released and how to choose a power bank for Apple devices today.
Battery life on the road is a common worry for anyone carrying several Apple devices. Plenty of third-party power banks existed, but Apple did not recommend them and compatibility varied. I thought Apple should launch its own.
Did Apple make a power bank?
Yes, in part. In July 2021 Apple released the MagSafe Battery Pack, which attached magnetically to the back of MagSafe iPhones. It was discontinued in 2023 when iPhones moved to USB-C. In 2025 Apple introduced a MagSafe Battery designed for the thin iPhone Air. Apple has not made a general-purpose power bank for iPads and Macs.
What should you look for in a power bank for Apple devices?
- USB-C Power Delivery: for fast charging iPhones, iPads and MacBooks.
- Enough output: 20 W for phones, 30 W or more for iPads and small laptops, higher for MacBook Pros.
- Capacity: 10,000 mAh covers a phone or two; 20,000 mAh or more for laptops.
- MagSafe or Qi2: for cable-free magnetic charging of recent iPhones.
- Safety certification from a reputable brand.
Are third-party power banks safe for iPhones?
Reputable ones are. Standards like USB-C Power Delivery and Qi2 mean chargers from well-known brands work reliably with Apple devices. Avoid unbranded, very cheap power banks, which may lack proper protection circuits.
What about flying with power banks?
Power banks must go in cabin baggage, not checked luggage, and airlines limit capacity. Many allow up to 100 Wh without approval; check your airline's current rules before travelling, as some have tightened use of power banks on board.
How do you look after a power bank?
Store it partly charged, avoid leaving it in a hot car, and replace it if it swells or gets unusually warm. Lithium batteries age, so a power bank several years old may hold much less than its label says.
Is Apple's own option worth it?
Its advantage is tight integration and design. For most users, a good third-party USB-C power bank offers more capacity for less money and charges every device you carry.