Anker, known for its innovative tech accessories, has introduced the MagGo USB-C Adapter — a compact and versatile SD and microSD card reader designed for laptops, tablets, and smartphones. What sets this adapter apart from typical card readers is its ability to elevate mobile filmmaking, especially for iPhone users. With its support for ProRes 4K video recording at 60 frames per second, the MagGo adapter is a game-changer for creators who rely on their iPhone 15 or 16 for high-quality video production.
The key feature of this adapter is its seamless connection to external media, enabling the recording of massive 4K video files directly to SD or microSD cards. But not just any card will do. To take full advantage of this functionality, the memory card must support data transfer speeds of at least 220 MB/s and have a capacity of 256 GB or more. This requirement aligns with the increasingly demanding needs of professional filmmakers who use their smartphones as powerful video production tools.
Enhancing iPhone Filmmaking with Pro-Grade Storage
Why is this significant? iPhones, particularly with the launch of the iPhone 15 and 16, have become go-to devices for creators, thanks to their robust camera systems and Apple’s ProRes video format. However, recording high-bitrate 4K footage directly onto the phone’s internal storage can quickly become cumbersome. The MagGo USB-C Adapter solves this problem by allowing video to be offloaded onto external storage, freeing up valuable phone space while ensuring smooth, uninterrupted recording at the highest quality settings.
The device is MagSafe-compatible, which means it can attach magnetically to the back of an iPhone, providing convenience during shoots. However, one tradeoff is that when attached via MagSafe, both charging methods for the iPhone are blocked. Anker has ingeniously addressed this by including an additional USB Type-C port capable of delivering up to 42.5 watts of power, ensuring that filmmakers can still charge their devices while recording.
Performance and Real-World Application
Anker promises data transfer speeds of up to 312 MB/s, the theoretical maximum for UHS-II class memory cards. In real-world use, these speeds might vary based on the type of memory card or its age, but the MagGo adapter is more than capable of supporting professional workflows. Even if the card’s speed falls below the recommended 220 MB/s threshold, the adapter can still record video, albeit at a lower frame rate or resolution. This flexibility ensures that creators aren’t locked out of using the device even if their memory cards aren’t the top-of-the-line models.
For professionals and hobbyists alike, this feature is invaluable. Video recording, especially at 4K 60fps, requires massive data bandwidth. Being able to push this data onto a fast, external card makes it possible to keep filming for extended periods without constantly worrying about storage limits or device overheating — a common issue when recording to internal storage.
The Broader Implications for Mobile Content Creation
The introduction of the MagGo USB-C Adapter is a reflection of the growing demand for mobile content creation tools that cater to professionals. Smartphones are now legitimate tools for high-quality content production, and accessories like Anker’s adapter are the catalysts that push the boundaries of what’s possible. By allowing users to bypass internal storage limitations and tap into the power of high-speed external cards, the MagGo adapter democratizes professional filmmaking, making it more accessible to creators who rely on mobile devices.
At $34.99, the Anker MagGo USB-C Adapter is competitively priced for a device that offers such robust functionality. Available in black, white, and turquoise, it’s also designed with aesthetics in mind, seamlessly fitting into the Apple ecosystem in both form and function. Its portability, combined with MagSafe compatibility, makes it an ideal companion for filmmakers who need a simple yet effective way to offload large video files without the hassle of bulky equipment.