Compact and with a “where is it?”: Twelve South brings two new Mac chargers

In addition to smartphones or keys, power supplies fall into the category of devices that are easy to lose. Apple accessories specialist Twelve South has now recognized this and has largely solved the problem with a new version of its famous PlugBug: It is the first power supply with a built-in “Where is it?” chip. This means that, for the first time, the power supply can be found via Apple’s Discovery Network. However, the Twelve South version currently has two catches.

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Two sizes, two or four ports

The new PlugBug is available in two versions: with 50 Watt and 120 Watt. The two also differ in size and the number of included USB-C ports: the 50-watt version comes with two ports, the 120-watt version comes with four ports. Twelve South made sure the power supplies were built flat rather than tall – so they should also fit behind sofas and other tight spaces. Weighs 110 or 250 grams.

“Where is it?” is implemented via a specially integrated chip. It is energetically detached from the power supply and is powered by its own battery. It is replaceable and matches the size of the AirTag battery (CR2032 with 3 V) – unfortunately there is no provision for charging. The manufacturer writes that the PlugBug should be tracked for about a year.

European consumer advocate: Apple’s DMA adjustments are not enough

Not for Europe, without ultra-wideband

However, the revised PlugBug – which was previously only an attachment for Apple’s original power supply – has two problems: first, it is currently only sold in the US version (including the fold-out power plug), second, “where is it?” without the ultra-wideband radio (UWB) as usual. With the US version you still need an adapter that significantly increases the size of the entire power supply – so it makes more sense to wait until the EU version is released, which hopefully won’t be too bulky.

UWB, on the other hand, would be useful for locating power supplies not just via Bluetooth but at close range, which is comparatively impossible in an apartment or hotel room. However, there are still no third-party Find My devices (namely not Apple) that use UWB. The PlugBug costs $70 or $120 and is currently available for pre-order.

(B.Sc.)