I’ll admit it, I was a PopSockets snob. These telescoping plastic grips for holding onto your phone without actually holding your phone rubbed me the wrong way. Much to my chagrin, though, you’ll probably see me using a PopSocket these days, especially at a concert, sporting event or even at home. And it’s all because of PopSockets finally work with Apple’s own technology.
The PopGrip for MagSafe is an easily removable and very strong PopSocket that just works with modern iPhones. It even includes a magnetic adapter ring, for folks with non-Apple phones.
I had many reasons for initially blanching at the notion of PopSockets. All the ones I saw looked juvenile. I didn’t think I needed any help holding my phone. Oh, and they were built into cases that looked bad, and there was that bulky pill-shaped design that just seemed like too much.
Then, recently, PopSockets revealed its new circular PopGrip for MagSafe models (available now, with a price of $30 to $35), and sent us a sample. It seems like someone had heard all of my complaints, and found ways to fix them. Except, well, they sent me an Opalescent Blue model, which I was happy to replace with a nondescript black PopSocket.
Want something more neutral? They make it in a totally clear design, as well as translucent options such as Electric Blue and Danger Red. Those who want something more expressive can go with designs such as Tranquil Aqua, Soft Waves, and Blue Skies for their MagSafe Round PopSocket.
Learning to love PopSockets
My conversion came in four steps. First, I noticed the quality, observing how easily this PopGrip attaches and detaches to Apple’s magnetic MagSafe surface on the back of my old iPhone 12 Pro Max. It even worked with Apple’s old leather cases (RIP). Then, I felt how strong the PopSocket’s magnets held onto my now retired iPhone and my new iPhone 15 Pro Max. By that point, it had earned my trust.
Over the span of a few weeks, I noticed how the PopGrip simply made it easier to use the admittedly large 6.7-inch iPhone 15 Pro Max. That’s especially true when it enabled me to more-steadily hold the iPhone 15 Pro Max as I shot photos and video.
And that’s no easy task when you’re trying to keep your phone’s lens tracked to chaotic pets or wild celebrations from the bands boygenius and Muna as they played Madison Square Garden.
The tipping point came when I wanted to watch a video on my iPhone, and realized the PopGrip (which I’ll be calling a PopSocket) also worked as a kickstand. “Neat,” I said to nobody in particular.
And now I’m just going to be one of those people who either has their PopSocket attached, or keeps it in a pocket or bag. Making them easily removable from iPhones and iPhone cases is a crucial way for me (and many others) to feel OK with this — especially since PopSockets get in the way of wireless charging.
Not every occasion calls for a PopSocket, especially one as colorful as the one I’ve been testing. I look forward to getting my own minimalist PopSocket soon, and enjoying the ease and comfort it provides.
