iFixit: Add MagSafe to iPhone 16e with iPhone 17e back panel
On March 2nd, Apple announced the iPhone 17e with a tougher display and MagSafe support. All without changing the size of the iPhone 16e. Convenient, because 16e cases simply fit the 17e. But it has another side effect, as iFixit discovered during a teardown.
iFixit is known for its comprehensive teardown videos so consumers can replace parts and repair products themselves. This time, the iPhone 17e is on the rack. And since they have already done a teardown of the 16e, they can make a nice comparison.
Now it turns out that Apple uses virtually the same back cover for both phones. Except that the one on the 17e has magnets in it and the one on the 16e does not. Apple's strategy of minimal hardware updates now appears to be working in favor of consumers.
Physical swap possible
Because both panels are identical, you can theoretically place the back of the iPhone 17e on that of the 16e. Magnetic accessories can also be used on the 16e after this, and the MagSafe adapter remains perfectly aligned. But there are some catches to this method.
For example, the iPhone 16e's software still thinks it doesn't have MagSafe. As a result, wireless charging is still limited to 7.5 watts and not the 15 watts that MagSafe supports. The MagSafe animation will also most likely remain off. Furthermore, the IP68 water resistance will have decreased after swapping the back.
Warranty risks and alternatives
Therefore, it might still be wiser to buy a case with built-in magnets if you want to add MagSafe support to your iPhone 16e. This will keep your warranty, full water resistance and the case adds protection against drops. Apple charges €59 for a MagSafe case for the 16e. The cost to swap out the back is typically higher, making it a risky method of masking a shortcoming of the 16e
