Why you should keep your bank cards away from an iPhone 12

The introduction of magnets in the new iPhone means wireless chargers magnetically slap into the right position on the back. — Christoph Dernbach/dpa

One of the most significant features in the new iPhone 12 is also one of the most rudimentary: magnets.

By installing three small magnets behind the phone's back cover, Apple has enabled owners to quickly slap on various cases, while the wireless charging pad no longer misaligns and always snaps satisfyingly into place.

But the introduction of these so-called Magsafe features come with a signification disadvantage for anyone who likes to keep their phone in the same pocket as their bank cards or passport.

Although the magnets are small, they are quite strong, meaning they can theoretically destroy credit cards.

"Don't place credit cards, security badges, passports, or key fobs between your iPhone and MagSafe Charger, because this might damage magnetic strips or RFID chips in those items," Apple has warned on its help page.

At the very least, you'll want to remove the cards from any wallet case you have for your iPhone and keep them somewhere else. Being close to wireless charging could also be dangerous for magnetic strips and other objects carrying data. – dpa