Apple released new battery cases for the iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max this week. Similar to previous battery cases, these fit around the iPhone and connect through the Lightning port to add a second battery to the iPhone, tightly integrated with iOS so that the user can see the battery levels for both. Connecting the unit then charges both batteries.
A new feature of the iPhone 11 battery cases is a dedicated camera button. Press to take a photo. Hold to take a video. The button can even work with the phone locked, turning the iPhone into an always-ready point-and-shoot camera.
Many people love these iPhone battery cases, sacrificing size and weight for all-day heavy use with apps like Snapchat and Instagram. The camera button is a going to make this even more popular.
Is this only available at Apple?
Russ: These are made by Apple, but I'm sure they will be selling them in other places, like Amazon and stores that carry Apple accessories.
Is there really a need for a battery case for these new iPhones? I get all day use out my new 11, hardly ever getting below 40-50%. I have yet to charge my phone at work since I got mine, where I would use to have to charge my old iPhone 6 in the afternoon.
Karl: It depends on your use. I'm like you, I certainly don't need it as a busy day only gets me down to 50%. But I know people that use Snapchat throughout the day and they easily run out of battery by dinner. Others who play lots of graphics-intensive games will also run the battery harder.