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One hidden Retina MacBook feature you can use right away

Published Apr 16th, 2015 6:25PM EDT
Retina MacBook USB-C External Battery Pack
Image: 9to5Mac

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Some versions of the Retina MacBook are already available in stores and users have already started exploring Apple’s boldest MacBook design to date. The device has already been dismantled and thoroughly reviewed, but a video overview from 9to5Mac reveals one hidden feature of the 12-inch machine that not many potential buyers may know about.

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We already know that the MacBook’s USB-C port can be used for both battery charging and connecting other peripherals. Most interestingly, though, is that the port can also support third-party external battery packs. Because of this, the MacBook can be charged with such packs that are already available for purchase from Amazon and other retailers, meaning you don’t have to wait for accessory makers to come up with products made specifically for the 12-inch MacBook.

Buying these accessories means you can significantly extend the battery life of the Retina MacBook, which is impressive since the laptop can already last for up to nine or 10 hours, depending on use. And not to mention that you won’t have to freak out about tripping on the charger cable and pulling the laptop off a desk with such great battery power.

9to5Mac already found an external battery pack that can charge the MacBook on Amazon, a 10,000mAh device that can triple the device’s battery life. It’s likely many other similar battery packs will be available to consumers in the very near future.

9to5Mac’s full video overview of the Retina MacBook, complete with battery charging demos and benchmark tests, follows below.

Chris Smith Senior Writer

Chris Smith has been covering consumer electronics ever since the iPhone revolutionized the industry in 2008. When he’s not writing about the most recent tech news for BGR, he brings his entertainment expertise to Marvel’s Cinematic Universe and other blockbuster franchises.

Outside of work, you’ll catch him streaming almost every new movie and TV show release as soon as it's available.