Here's an idea: we've had MagSafe to MageSafe-2 converters. How about extending this idea to creating a MagSafe-2 to USB converter? This way you can just release the magsafe connector from a tiny USB-C plug that stays connected the rMB's port in the event of accident. Seems like a no-brainer to me!
Nice idea! The MagSafe 2 to MagSafe adapter is just a dumb adapter however, simply directly connecting the pins. I'd guess a MagSafe to USB-C would have to be much more complex to support MagSafe's features such as the charging light. Not that it would be beyond Apple, they love their insanely complex adapters, eg Lightning to HDMI!
I took a chance and ordered one of these: Magsafe Female TO USB-C USB 3.1 Type C Male Power Converter Cable for Apple New Macbook 12" I have no idea whether it will work or what the quality is like. They are half the price of buying another Apple 29W adapter and let me charge either a MacBook Air or a MacBook (retina). I'm not endorsing this since I haven't received it yet. I'm just letting people know it exists. I'll report back when I get it.
Please report back when you have it. I'm keen on buying one if it works. Removing the magsafe is one of the stupidest decision by Apple.
A dongle is NOT something I'm interested in. In fact, I wonder if it would even work the same since the dongle cable will allow more stress on the connector, before the magsafe disconnects.
i bought that convertor, it doesn't work. its a magsafe 1 so i dug out an old magsafe one adaptor plugged them in and nothing.
I got mine and it worked fine with my MagSafe 1 charger. I can't vouch for the build quality, longevity, or reliability just yet since I haven't used it that much, but it is working.
Mine does not work with MagSafe 1. Any reason you can think of? No green light and no powering icon in apple bar (the icon flashed as on at the moment of attaching the power block).
I've bought the converter and advise not to buy it unless you really can't afford a cable+usb-charger It's because the unstable voltage and connection, the charging WORKS but SLOW. I've tested the following method of charging my MacBook 12" 1) Normal 29W Apple USB-C Charger 2) 5V 2.4A USB adapter with "USB to USB-C" cable 3) 45W MagSafe Charger + USB-C Converter speed 1>3>2 for #2, 7 hours to fully charge WITHOUT turning on the MacBook (need Shut Down) for #3, basically can maintain 5 mins increase 1% of charging, with monitor fully turned on for #1, of cuz its the best.
i too have been looking for creative solutions for a second charger for my rMB. I recently bought a 20W USB charger and USB to USB C cable off of Amazon and will be trying that method. It was delivered this morning, can't wait to test it this evening. If I can get it to charge even at 65% of the normal charger, I consider it a win (a total of $23 vs $70). I'll report back after I try. If it works, I'll also include links.
Znaps (if they don't fail, they are a kickstarter project) will offer a USB-C model of their product. http://www.znaps.net/ It is a magsafe style plug for lightning, micro-USB and USB-C.
So still no good update on a MagSafe to USB-C adaptor? I'm not gonna risk it with the link posted above... $23 for an adaptor that may not work isn't a good bet to me.
Looks like they didn't fail, but they don't have a USB-C plug yet. It's the only one I might consider buying.