Recently unveiled alongside the iPhone 17 lineup, Apple introduced an innovative charger dubbed the “Apple 40W Dynamic Power Adapter with 60W Max.” This device claims the title of the first charger to support the USB PD 3.2 AVS protocol, allowing users to enjoy enhanced charging capabilities, akin to a more powerful 60W charger, all within a compact 40W design.
The AVS, which stands for Adjustable Voltage Supply, offers customized voltage levels that enhance the efficiency and accuracy of charging various devices, including smartphones and laptops. More details can be found in the specifications outlined in Apple Insider’s hands-on review.
Typically, safety and efficiency considerations lead mobile device batteries to not charge at maximum input throughout the charging process. Instead, they use predefined voltages to progressively slow the charging rate as the battery nears fullness. With AVS technology, the power adapter can adjust the voltage more precisely, which can lead to faster charging times.
However, it is important to note that Apple’s 40W GaN charger cannot sustain the peak 60W charging rate indefinitely, maintaining it only for a maximum of 18 minutes, as noted by a user on the r/UsbCHardware subreddit. This limitation makes it ideal for quickly charging new iPhone 17 models but unsuitable for more demanding devices like the MacBook Pro, which is why it is marketed as a 40W charger with a 60W maximum rating.
Consequently, users aiming to achieve the full fast charging potential for the iPhone 17 models—boasting the capability of reaching “up to 50 percent in 20 minutes”—will likely need to invest in Apple’s $39 Dynamic Power Adapter, or they may opt to wait for third-party manufacturers like Anker to release compatible USB PD 3.2 AVS chargers of their own.
