Microsoft has unveiled Magnetic Connect for the Surface Laptop Ultra, a magnetic charging interface built directly upon the USB-C Power Delivery standard.
By avoiding proprietary controller designs, the implementation allows the charging port to remain fully functional for data and peripheral access.
The system supports power delivery up to 240W, providing a versatile alternative to existing magnetic charging implementations while remaining integrated into the standard USB-C ecosystem.
A more practical solution
The key difference with Microsoft's new offering is that it doesn't use a closed, proprietary connector. The system is based on a regular USB-C port, to which magnets have been added to guide the cable into the correct position.
This means that the port is not reserved for charging only. When the computer does not need power, the user can use it normally to connect accessories, such as monitors or external devices, which is not allowed by Apple's corresponding systems.
Flexibility and limitations
Because the technology is based on the USB Power Delivery standard, Microsoft hopes it can establish this design as a standard for other manufacturers to follow.
However, the system is not a solution for all computer categories. Very powerful gaming laptops have much higher power requirements and will still need special power supplies, as the USB Power Delivery standard, despite its capabilities (up to 240W), is not sufficient to meet their needs.
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