New images “leaked” via Weibo allegedly show a circular array of magnets housed inside an “iPhone 12” chassis. The images show 36 individual magnets in a circular arrangement, which indicates they could be used in a mounting or charging process.
EverythingApplePro – who shared the Weibo-originating images on Twitter – also posted an image of what appears to be an iPhone 12 case with a similar array of built-in magnets. EverythingApplePro suggests the magnets are “likely for perfect alignment with Apple’s wireless chargers.”
Apple currently doesn’t offer any wireless chargers for the iPhone, and the company canceled its AirPower charging mat last year, due to quality concerns. However, rumors persist that Apple is still working on an AirPower-like charging mat.
Apple is widely expected to debut four new iPhones in three display sizes this year.