Magnets have long existed in the smartphone and accessory industry. But magnetic accessories weren't much seen back then. After Apple introduced the iPhone 12 with built-in magnets in 2022, magnetic phone accessories quickly gained popularity. But the question remains: Are magnets bad for phones?
The simple answer is that the average household magnet will not cause substantial interference. Scientific studies and real-life tests indicate that magnets used in everyday magnetic accessories, such as magnetic car phone holders and magnetic chargers, are unlikely to cause any significant damage. So, it's totally fine to use magnetic accessories.
PITAKA started making magnetic phone cases, chargers, and phone holders about eight years ago. None of those products will cause any problems to your smartphone.
How to Safely Use Magnets with Phones
With such importance placed on magnets in phones and daily accessories, it's crucial to know how to protect them from potential harm.
Essential Dos and Don'ts for Using Magnets with Phones
Let's start with the dos. Magnets can be beneficial when used with phones in the right way.
Magnetic phone cases are usually safe, as are magnetic phone mounts and wallets. These magnets are generally designed to have minimal interference with the device's functionality.
However, it's important to be aware of the don'ts when it comes to using magnets with phones. Don't place strong magnets near your phone. Magnets can interfere with the operation of the phone's internal components and potentially cause irreparable damage. So, steer clear of placing your phone directly on magnetic surfaces or attaching powerful magnets directly to the phone itself.
Choosing
Compatible & Certified Magnetic Accessories
Compatible and certified magnetic accessories undergo rigorous testing to ensure they do not interfere with the phone's functionality. These accessories are specifically designed with shielding materials or accurate magnet placement to protect the phone from potential damage and malfunctions.
To determine if a magnetic accessory is compatible and certified, look for reputable brands that adhere to industry standards and regulations. Check for certifications such as the MFi (Made for iPhone) certification or Qi standard. Reading product reviews and seeking recommendations from trusted sources can also help you make an informed decision.
Using Proper
Magnets
Magnetic phone cases and accessories use magnets to stick your phone in a place for a convenient hands-free experience or stable wireless charging. That said, it doesn't necessarily mean the stronger the magnetic force is, the better.
Just ensure your phone won't fall off when you use those magnetic accessories. For instance, using a magnetic phone mount in your car can provide a hands-free solution for navigation and answering calls. Your car mount should be strong enough to keep your device in place even on bumpy roads. Over-strong magnets will make pulling your phone from the mount difficult and may even cause interference with the device's performance.
Proper Mounting
Techniques: Placement & Alignment for Optimal Security
When it comes to mounting your phone, first consider placement.
Choose a location that offers easy access without obstructing your view in a car. Place the mount on the dashboard or air vents for easy reach and minimal distractions while driving. If you want to install the mount on the windshield, make sure it's not against the local rules. Check out more tips on selecting the best car mount here.
Also, ensure your phone is aligned properly. The biggest upside of magnetic mounts is that they auto align with your phone. When you move your phone over the mount, it automatically clicks into place. Sometimes, you may need to move it around a bit to hear the "click". Additionally, some car mounts can be adjustable, allowing you to position your phone at the most comfortable angle.
When Did We Start Using Magnetic Phone Cases?
About a decade ago, magnetic phone cases were not even a thing. Only a few manufacturers used magnets on phone cases. PITAKA was among one of them.
A Brief History of Magnetic Phone Cases
In 2015, we found that if we wanted to attach a mobile phone to a magnetic car phone holder, we had to use adhesive or magnetic metal plates. Applying a metal plate made the case thick and not at all appealing. So we developed a phone case that can be directly attached to the magnetic car mount. Soon, the MagEZ Case for phones, one of the first aramid fiber phone cases with magnets, was born.
We embedded crescent-shaped magnets in cases for iPhone and Samsung phones, such as iPhone X and Samsung Galaxy S7 series. Meanwhile, we also developed a series of magnetic phone accessories to provide a seamless phone experience. We had magnetic phone holders to use in the car or at the desk, which works effortlessly with our magnetic phone cases and can provide Qi wireless charging.
Comparing Early vs. Modern Magnetic Phone Cases
Over time, sales grew. A few more manufacturers entered the ring; meanwhile, we upgraded the design to make our magnetic phone cases more beautiful and useful. Magnetic phone cases grew popular, albeit slowly.
In 2020, Apple introduced MagSafe, a system that uses magnets in the iPhone and they also released wallets and chargers with the same array of magnets. Since then, many people have realized how convenient magnetic phone cases and accessories can be; thus, the market has begun to thrive rapidly. And we upgraded the magnets in our phone cases, from crescent-shaped to array magnets.
Nowadays, magnetic phone cases are made from all kinds of materials,
just like non-magnetic phone cases do. They can also come with kicks or wallets to offer more functionalities.
Are Magnetic Phone Cases Bad for Phones?
Magnetic phone cases are safe for phones. Here are the detailed explanations.
Addressing Common Concerns about Magnet & Phone Safety
The severity of the impact largely depends on the strength and proximity of the magnet to the phone. Ordinary household magnets typically don't pose a significant threat. Smartphones today are equipped with built-in magnetic sensors. These sensors are designed to detect and respond to magnetic fields, enabling features like compasses or magnetic phone covers. Manufacturers take special precautions to ensure these magnetic sensors are not affected by everyday magnets, so ordinary use should not generally cause harm.
Understanding
the Potential Risks: Signal Interference, Compass Disruption
It's essential to recognize that magnets can potentially interfere with the proper functioning of mobile phones. The electronic components within our phones, such as the speakers, microphones, and sensors, can experience disruption when exposed to a strong magnetic field. This interference can result in distorted audio, inconsistent touch response, or even irreversible damage to the device.
Choosing Safe
Magnetic Cases: Magnet Strength, Placement & Material Considerations
When it comes to choosing a safe magnetic case for your phone, there are several important considerations to keep in mind. One of the primary concerns is the strength of the magnets used in the case. While magnets can be a convenient way to mount your phone or attach accessories, they can potentially interfere with the internal components of your device. Therefore, it is crucial to opt for magnetic cases with proper magnetic strength, ensuring they don't cause any harm to your phone. It's not that the strongest is the best.
Another factor to consider is the placement of the magnets within the case. It is vital to choose a magnetic case that strategically positions the magnets away from sensitive areas of your phone, such as the battery or the circuitry. This will help prevent any potential interference or damage to your device.
Moreover, the material used in the construction of the magnetic case is equally important. Opt for cases made from non-conductive materials to further mitigate any potential risks. Common materials like silicone or TPU are non-conductive. In recent years, carbon fiber phone cases have attracted many people's attention. But note that carbon fiber is conductive, meaning it will affect the phone signal. Aramid fiber, on the other hand, is not conductive and is an ideal phone case material, given that it's extremely lightweight yet durable like carbon fiber.
What Are The Best Materials For A Magnetic Phone Case?
Speaking of phone case materials, let's dive into more details.
Common Magnetic Case Materials: Durability, Protection & Safety Aspects
Silicone magnetic cases are flexible and have shock-absorption capabilities. They provide a snug fit for your phone and offer decent protection against everyday bumps and drops. However, silicone cases are prone to attracting dust and lint, which can be a hassle to clean.
Plastic magnetic cases, on the other hand, often have a hard shell that offers more protection against scratches and abrasions. They are also more resistant to dust and lint compared to silicone cases. But they could look cheap.
Leather magnetic cases offer a sophisticated look and feel, protecting the phone against scratches and everyday wear and will develop patina over time, adding a unique touch to your style. They are usually heavier than silicone or plastic cases.
Aramid fiber magnetic phone cases are lightweight yet durable. It's a high-tech material often used in aerospace and military applications. They are resistant to corrosion, scratches, heat, and water, making it easy to last for years.
Aramid Fiber
vs. Traditional Materials
Aramid fiber could be the best phone case material. It's lighter than all other common materials, yet it's much more durable. And it's the most chemically stable of all.
A decade ago, PITAKA started to use this high-tech material to make phone cases. After about 40 processes, our aramid fiber phone cases boast a velvet-like texture but with excellent grip.
Are Magnetic Car Phone Holders Safe For Your Phone?
PITAKA's magnetic car phone holders do not cause problems to phones. They provide a secure and accessible way to mount your smartphone while driving.
The MagEZ Car Mount utilizes strong magnets that offer a force up to 1.2 kg, ensuring secure attachment and stable wireless charging for your phone while you drive. Albeit strong, those magnets are meticulously arranged to avoid any possible tiny interference to your phone.
Our car phone holders come in car vent and suction cup variants, both of which uses magnets. You can magnetically snap your iPhone 12/13/14/15 or other phones using a magnetic phone case to the car phone holder to get the most from your device.
Do Magnetic Card Holders Affect Phone Battery?
The short answer is no.
Understanding Magnetic Interference & Potential Impacts on Battery
Magnets used in everyday items like magnetic card holders or fridge magnets are not strong enough to have any significant impact on modern smartphone batteries. The batteries in our phones are designed to withstand everyday interactions with magnets without suffering any adverse effects. This is because modern smartphones use solid-state lithium-ion batteries, which are not significantly affected by magnetic fields.
Magnetic Card Holders Do Not Affect Phone Battery
Magnetic card holders usually do not have a direct impact on the battery life of mobile phones. The lifespan and performance of mobile phone batteries are mainly influenced the number and method of charging, temperature, and battery aging.
MagEZ Card Sleeve, our magnetic card holder, is designed not to affect your phone's performance or battery.
If you're using an iPhone 12/13/14/15, just snap the wallet to the back of your device. If you're using other phones like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, use a magnetic phone case, then you can attach the wallet to your phone. The wallet can hold two chip/magnetic stripe cards or four business cards.
PITAKA Safe Magnetic Technology
PITAKA started using magnets to build a series of phone accessories long before Apple released MagSafe iPhone and accessories. Because we were well aware of the tremendous potential of magnets in making your phone more useful.
Initially, we embedded crescent-shaped magnets in phone cases, wall mounts, and wallets. Since 2022, we upgraded the magnet system by switching to an array of magnets in our products. With the help of our magnetic phone cases, you can keep your phone securely in place in the car, keep your cards accessible at hand's distance, and enjoy stable and fast wireless charging for your phone thanks to auto alignment.
FAQs
1. Will Magnets erase or corrupt the data on our phones?
The magnets we encounter in everyday life, such as those found in phone accessories, are not strong enough to affect the phone's memory or storage. Your selfies, important files, and cherished memories will remain safe. However, it's still a good practice to regularly back up your important data to prevent any potential data loss.
2. Can magnets interfere with phone signals?
Signal interference usually occurs with speakers, so unless you place a powerful magnet directly over your phone's speakers, it should not cause any issues. However, if you notice any loss of signal strength, it's best to remove any magnets in close proximity to your phone.
3. Can I use a magnetic phone case or holder?
Magnetic phone cases and holders are generally safe to use. These accessories often use weak magnets that are unlikely to cause any harm to your phone. However, if you notice any issues with your phone's performance or functionality while using a magnetic accessory, it may be worth removing it to see if the problem persists.
4. Are there any special considerations for magnets and iPhones?
iPhones have magnets built into their accessories, such as Apple Watch magnetic chargers and MagSafe accessories. These magnets are designed to work specifically with iPhones and are unlikely to cause any issues. However, it's still advisable to avoid exposing your iPhone to extremely strong magnets or magnets not intended for Apple devices.
31 Aug 2021
Magnets as electronic accessories can be quite useful. For example, phone cases with a magnet on the back allow you to attach your phone to mount on a car. This can be helpful if you need to answer a call from someone, but do not want to take your eyes off the road.
However, many have raised the question: Can magnets be harmful to your phone?
Recently, both Apple and Google advised users to be vigilant when using certain third-party accessories.
Read on to understand what the effects magnets may have on your phone and whether it is indeed harmless.
It is first important to understand that magnetic phone cases are made up of materials, such as nickel, iron, and cobalt. These compounds may rub involuntarily against your phone and invoke magnetic fields, affecting functions that require magnetic sensors.
The following can be affected: signal, data, and battery.
Some materials in a phone case can affect signals, such as metal.
That begs the question, can magnets interfere with a phone signal?
Research suggests that a magnet can have an effect on a phone’s internal sensors. This can potentially cause a malfunction with the three-axis magnetometer and Compass, especially if the magnet is strong.
Google has not made their guidelines available, but Apple has made their guidelines public, stating that it recommends “avoiding the use of magnets and metal components in accessories”.
For example, with regards to the Compass application in Apple and Google, both manufacturers do not recommend buying certain phone accessories from third-party manufacturers.
If you use applications, such as Google Maps, and the magnetic sensors are being affected, then Google Maps might give you incorrect directions.
Some also say that phones with magnetic cases, kept in wallets, can corrupt magnetic data storage in credit or debit cards.
Meaning, a magnet can potentially wipe memory off a phone, if the phone’s memory is recorded magnetically.
Apple suggests that you avoid “magnetic mounts, magnetic cases, or other objects between your iPhone and the charger.”
With regards to wireless charging, some materials such as aluminum in a phone case can prevent wireless charging signals.
If you struggle with your phone’s battery life, you might find it beneficial to read about the best battery phone case.
A magnetic phone case needs to either be extraordinarily strong or improperly designed to mess with a phone’s functions.
Even then, a magnetic phone case will not cause damage to your phone.
Magnets will only have a great effect on credit cards or hard drives because their data are stored magnetically.
It should be noted that most hard drives are not magnetic anymore. At present, most phone data storage uses solid-state drives or flash memory. These methods of storing data do not use magnetism.
Thus, your phone’s memory will be safe from magnets.
With regards to your phone’s battery, magnetic phone cases are not strong enough to affect it unless the case is improperly designed. For example, some phone cases can affect your phone’s battery life, such as those cases that generate excess heat.
Meaning, depending on the quality of the phone case, any phone case can cause phones to overheat.
Lastly, there is no evidence indicating an association between magnetic phone cases and whether it may cause cancer.
If anti-radiation and cancer is a topic that concerns you, it might be beneficial to read up on the best anti-radiation cell phone case.
In essence, magnetic accessories are harmless.
Magnetic phone cases are not powerful enough to cause any adverse effects on your phone.
Phones are created, with the knowledge that it needs to be compatible with trendy accessories in the market.
It is also best to look at Apple’s guidelines, to ensure that your iPhone will not be affected by a magnetic accessory.
If you want to be extra cautious, it is always good to read up on a magnetic phone case’s reviews before purchasing it.
When you use an app that accesses the magnetometer (i.e., your phone’s Compass) then a magnetic accessory can give some problems.
More specifically, the problematic presence of Ferromagnetic materials in the environment and the phones themselves.
Ferromagnetic materials can either manipulate the magnetic field or produce their own magnetic field.
This interferes with the phone’s Compass function.
This is why calibration is useful. Calibrating is when you move your phone in a particular direction.
The calibration can compensate for the field produced by the Ferromagnetic materials with an actual magnetic field.
In essence, you need to adjust your phone to the changes, through calibration, to provide a more desired result.
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