14 DAY TRIAL // Apple has quietly updated the MagSafe power adapters that ship with portable Macs. More particularly, the company has improved the tips for the 85 Watt adapters that come with the 15- and 17-inch MacBooks, and the 65-Watt versions that ship with the 13-inch MacBook and MacBook Pro. The power adapter recharges a MacBook’s battery while the system is off, on, or in sleep mode, and powers the laptop if the user chooses to operate without a battery.
As shown in the image, the new tip is made of aluminum and sits in parallel with the cable. Older MagSafe Adapters featured a tip sitting at a right-angle. The aluminum tip has been specifically designed so that it extends to offer some protection to the point at which the cable joins the metal. Customers have reportedly had a lot of fuss with fraying cords, a particularly annoying aspect surrounding the $79 accessory.
Apple’s overview of the 85W MagSafe Power Adapter for 15- and 17-inch MacBook Pros reads, “The 85 Watt MagSafe Power Adapter features a magnetic DC connector that ensures your power cable will disconnect if it experiences undue strain and helps prevent fraying or weakening of the cables over time. In addition, the magnetic DC helps guide the plug into the system for a quick and secure connection.”
“When the connection is secure, an LED located at the head of the DC connector will light; an amber light lets you know that your portable is charging, while a green light tells you that you have a full charge,” the company adds. “An AC cord is provided with the adapter for maximum cord length, while the AC wall adapter (also provided) gives users an even easier and more compact way to travel.”
Apple stresses that its MagSafe Power Adapters are specifically designed to be the perfect traveling companion, featuring a clever design that allows the cable to be wound neatly around itself for easy storage.