PopGrip for MagSafe, PopWallet+ for MagSafe and PopGrip Slide Stretch are all available for purchase.
I was able to spend some time with the accessories ahead of their launch, with a quick overview of each available below.
PopGrip for MagSafe
The PopGrip for MagSafe, which costs $30, is an accessory that closely approximates a traditional PopSocket PopGrip. Standard PopGrips attach to an iPhone using adhesive, but the MagSafe-compatible version uses magnets.
It has an oval base with a built-in magnet along with a pop-out PopSocket option, with the PopGrip MagSafe being able to be used with a bare iPhone or an iPhone with a MagSafe-compatible case, but Popsockets says you should use a case. .
In my experience, PopGrip MagSafe’s magnet is as reliable as glue. It offers a strong grip, though I can dislodge it if I try to shake my iPhone or push with my finger to dislodge it. It aligns well with the magnet on an iPhone 12, and I have no qualms about using it as a grip as I would the standard PopGrip options.
I would advise caution when using it, though, as with any magnetic accessory, it can detach if you do something like thumb down on the iPhone while pulling up on the PopGrip MagSafe. Popskates also warns against carrying the iPhone by the grip to avoid accidents. Overall, I think people will find this a useful alternative to the sticky version.
When I need to charge my iPhone, it pops right off, and in general, I find the whole setup very convenient, much more convenient than the sticky versions. It pops in when I need it and pops off when I don’t, and the functionality is the same functionality you’d expect from a popsocket. It acts as a grip to hold the iPhone and acts as a stand.
It comes in four colors, including Black, Opal, Nebula, and Gold Lutz Marble, so there isn’t as much variety as other PopGrips, but I imagine PopSocket plans to release additional colors and patterns in the future. You can also swap tops.
PopWallet+ for MagSafe
The PopWallet+ for MagSafe ($40) is essentially identical in functionality to the PopGrip MagSafe–, but it’s more square in shape and has a small woven sock inside that holds up to three cards.
I don’t usually use this type of wallet case, but it’s a handy alternative to Apple’s own MagSafe Wallet because it also has a PopGrip to hold the iPhone. The PopWallet is thicker than the standard PopGrip MagSafe to accommodate cards, and I didn’t find it as comfortable to use.
The magnetic strength is about the same as the PopGrip MagSafe so it feels secure and cards fit well Cards won’t fall out even if you’re only using one, and you can pop them out if needed by pressing on the woven area at the bottom of the PopWallet.
Popskates says credit cards are protected from damage with a magnet shield, and the company recommends using a wallet with a MagSafe-compatible case.
Popgrip slide stretch
Priced at $15, the PopGrip Slide Stretch isn’t magnetic at all, instead attaching to an iPhone 12 with two arms that grip the iPhone.
For those concerned about magnetic forces, this solution is safer than magnet-based solutions. You separate the two arms and slip the iPhone in, and it’s a tight fit, especially for the iPhone 12 Pro Max.
Other MagSafe PopSkates solutions are limited to the iPhone 12 model, but the PopGrip Slide Stretch also works with older iPhone models and was available prior to an updated version that works with the iPhone 12.
It’s designed so you can slide it down when you need to charge via MagSafe, but I didn’t find it very easy to manipulate and prefer to just pull out the magnet-based options.
Popskates says you need to use a case with the PopGrip Slide Stretch because it’s not designed to fit without a case.
how to buy
PopGrip for MagSafe, PopWallet+ for MagSafe and PopGrip Slide Stretch can be purchased from the PopSkates website starting today.
