Apple revealed today that using older 29W USB-C power adapters on the new MagSafe Duo Charger is not advisable as the two are incompatible.
A new support document shared by Apple today outlined the proper use of MagSafe Duo Chargers with the new iPhone 12 models and Apple Watches. The document also clarified details about the accessory after its launch recently. The support document also confirmed that it is not advisable to use Apple's older 29W USB-C power adapter since it is incompatible with the MagSafe Duo.
Industry observers who reviewed the support document noted that the incompatibility issue between 29W USB-C power adapters and MagSafe Duo Chargers might stem from the fact that the adapter does not support the required 5V/3A or 9V/1.67A power ratings. Consequently, when you attach the MagSafe Duo to the 29W adapter, it is only possible to charge one device at a time, which means you can only charge either an Apple Watch or an iPhone, instead of charging both simultaneously. In 2018, Apple replaced the 29W version of its adapter with a newer 30W version, which is compatible with its MagSafe Duo.
Aside from its revelation that the older 29W power adapters are incompatible with the MagSafe Duo Charger, Apple's support document also noted that the hinge area of the MagSafe Duo might develop wrinkles over time if you keep in a folded and closed position. This is particularly true if you often leave the charger in very warm environments, such as inside your car on a hot day.
The cover of the MagSafe Duo Charger consists of soft materials, and like many other accessories with similar coverings, you will notice familiar signs of wear and tear. While this does not affect its functional performance, seeing wrinkles and creases may dishearten you, so you must observe proper storage when the accessory is not in use to minimize rapid wear and tear. The more important you should remember, however, is that the MagSafe Duo Charger is not compatible with older 29W power adapters. Continuous use of this combination may result in the degradation of, not only its look but also its function.
Like the singular MagSafe Charger, there is a limit to the power delivery of the Duo version when using them with the iPhone 12 mini. According to Apple's support document, the power delivery limit of the MagSafe Duo Charger when you use them to charge an iPhone 12 mini is 12W. When you connect Lightning accessories like Apple's EarPods to any iPhone 12 model, the power delivery limit when charging with the MagSafe Duo charger decreases to 7.5W. Apple said this is more of compliance with regulatory standards rather than actual hardware limitation.
