Struggling with your iPhone’s storage always being full? Whether you’re a budding filmmaker capturing stunning 4K ProRes footage, a content creator on the go, or just someone who loves snapping a million photos, internal iPhone storage can feel incredibly limiting. That’s where a high-performance external Solid State Drive (SSD) comes in, and Lexar has some fantastic options tailored specifically for your Apple device.
Choosing the right external storage isn’t just about capacity; it’s about speed, portability, durability, and seamless compatibility. You need a drive that can keep up with your iPhone’s advanced camera capabilities and integrate effortlessly into your mobile workflow. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into 10 top Lexar portable SSDs, helping you discover the Lexar best SSD for iPhone that perfectly suits your needs. Let’s unlock your iPhone’s full potential!
Why You Need an External SSD for Your iPhone
Modern iPhones, especially the iPhone 15 series with its USB-C port, have revolutionized mobile content creation. You can now record cinematic 4K video directly to an external drive, bypassing the internal storage crunch. An external SSD offers:
- Massive Storage Expansion: Instantly add terabytes of space for photos, videos, apps, and documents.
- Blazing-Fast Data Transfer: Quickly move large files, saving you precious time.
- Direct 4K/ProRes Recording: Capture professional-grade video without worrying about storage limits.
- Portability & Durability: Take your entire digital life with you, protected from bumps and splashes.
- Backup & Security: Securely back up your precious memories and important files.
Let’s check out some of Lexar’s finest offerings!
Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports…
This 1TB Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD stands out not just for its storage, but for its integrated hub, making it a true mobile workstation for iPhone users. Imagine being able to offload your high-res video while simultaneously connecting other peripherals – that’s the kind of flexibility this drive offers. It’s designed for spontaneous creativity, ensuring you’re always ready to capture and manage your Apple ProRes footage with ease.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-compact design for ultimate portability.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (press firmly for full insertion).
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports, plus included adapters/cables.
- Blazing-fast performance: up to 1050MB/s read, 1000MB/s write for seamless 4K recording.
- IP65 dust-proof and water-resistant, drop-resistant up to 1 meter.
- Five-year limited warranty.
- Compatibility testing with iPhone 17 Series devices in progress.
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Pros:
- Built-in hub adds significant functionality for mobile setups.
- Excellent speeds for demanding tasks like 4K ProRes.
- Highly durable with IP65 rating and drop resistance.
- Ultra-compact and travel-ready design.
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Cons:
- Compatibility for the latest iPhones (e.g., iPhone 15 series) might require specific adapters or careful setup, as iPhone 17 compatibility is still being tested.
- The wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector needs firm insertion, which some users might find slightly finicky.
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User Impressions: Users love the convenience of the integrated hub, praising its ability to declutter their mobile creative setup. The speed and ruggedness also get high marks, making it a reliable companion for on-the-go content creators, though some noted the importance of ensuring a secure connection.
Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub, Supports…
Essentially the bigger sibling to the 1TB version, this 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD with Hub provides double the storage capacity, making it an absolute game-changer for serious iPhone videographers and photographers. You get all the fantastic hub functionality and rugged durability, but with ample space to store even more hours of Apple ProRes footage or massive photo libraries. It’s the ideal choice for those who demand maximum storage alongside their mobile creativity hub.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-compact, take it anywhere for spontaneous creativity.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector (press firmly to ensure full insertion).
- Integrated hub with four USB Type-C ports, plus adapters/cables for ultimate flexibility.
- Blazing-fast performance: up to 1050MB/s read, 1000MB/s write for seamless 4K recording.
- IP65 dust-proof and water-resistant, drop-resistant up to 1 meter.
- Five-year limited warranty.
- Compatibility testing with iPhone 17 Series devices in progress.
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Pros:
- Generous 2TB capacity perfect for extensive media libraries.
- Multi-functional hub enhances mobile workflow.
- High-speed transfers are great for large video files.
- Robust build quality ensures data safety.
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Cons:
- Higher price point due to increased capacity.
- The firm insertion requirement for the Type-C connector might take a little getting used to.
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User Impressions: Customers appreciate the expanded storage without compromising on the hub features. Many found the 2TB capacity freeing, especially for professional projects, and highlighted the robust build as a key benefit for outdoor shoots.
Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD, Supports Apple 4K…
If you love the “Go Portable” series but don’t necessarily need the integrated hub, this 1TB Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD is a fantastic, streamlined option. It focuses purely on providing lightning-fast, durable storage expansion for your iPhone and other devices. It’s an excellent choice for expanding your smartphone’s storage instantly, ensuring seamless data transfers, and effortlessly handling Apple ProRes 4K 60 fps recording without a single dropped frame.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-compact and highly portable design.
- Wireless plug-and-play Type-C connector.
- Blazing-fast performance: 1050MB/s read, 1000MB/s write for seamless Apple ProRes 4K 60 fps recording.
- Wide compatibility with mobile phones, iPads, Macs, PCs, cameras, and other Type-C devices.
- IP65 dust- and water-resistant, drop-resistant up to 1 meter, with a protective silicone case.
- Five-year limited warranty.
- Compatibility testing with iPhone 17 Series devices in progress.
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Pros:
- Exceptional speed for direct 4K video recording.
- Highly durable and comes with a protective case for extra peace of mind.
- Truly portable, perfect for minimal setups.
- Broad device compatibility, including new iPhones.
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Cons:
- Lacks the hub functionality of its Professional Go siblings.
- Again, “iPhone 17 series” compatibility is pending, meaning iPhone 15 series users should check their specific setup.
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User Impressions: Users value its simplicity and raw performance. The rugged design combined with its small footprint makes it a favorite for travel and outdoor shooting, especially for those who need reliable, fast storage without extra bells and whistles.
Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD, Up to 2000MB/s,…
Here’s where things get really innovative for iPhone users! The Lexar 1TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD is a standout with its MagSafe-compatible design, allowing it to magnetically attach directly to your compatible smartphone. This means no dangling cables, just a sleek, integrated recording solution for your iPhone. It’s built for speed, boasting up to 2000MB/s, making it ideal for capturing high-end footage like Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS or Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS.
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Key Features:
- Blazing-fast speeds: Up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write (may be lower on non-USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 systems).
- MagSafe-compatible design for easy magnetic attachment to smartphones.
- Includes an additional metal ring accessory for non-MagSafe devices.
- Supports Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS and Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS recording.
- Free access to the Lexar App for auto backup and storage expansion.
- IP65 dust and water resistance, drop resistant up to 3M.
- Thin, stylish liquid silicone build with comfortable grip and a cable organizer/lanyard.
- Thermal control design for optimal performance.
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Pros:
- Unique MagSafe compatibility for a seamless, cable-free iPhone experience.
- Exceptional speeds, perfect for the most demanding video formats.
- Highly durable with superior drop resistance (3M).
- Lexar App adds valuable backup features.
- Stylish, ergonomic design with thermal management.
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Cons:
- Full speed requires USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 support, which might not be available on all devices (including older iPhones).
- Magnetic attachment is primarily for compatible iPhones; others need the metal ring.
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User Impressions: The MagSafe feature is a huge hit, with users loving the convenience of having the SSD securely attached to their phone. Filmmakers especially praise its speed and ability to handle high frame rate ProRes. The ruggedness is also a big plus for active users.
Lexar 2TB ES5 Magnetic External SSD, Up to 2000MB/s,…
For professional iPhone cinematographers and power users who need even more storage with the cutting-edge magnetic attachment, the 2TB Lexar ES5 Magnetic External SSD is your go-to. It packs all the innovative features of its 1TB counterpart – including the incredible 2000MB/s speeds and MagSafe compatibility – but with double the capacity. This means more 4K120FPS ProRes recording, more large project files, and more peace of mind that you won’t run out of space mid-shoot. It’s truly a Lexar best SSD for iPhone for those pushing the boundaries of mobile content creation.
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Key Features:
- Blazing-fast speeds: Up to 2000MB/s read and 2000MB/s write (performance may vary).
- MagSafe-compatible design for easy, secure attachment to compatible smartphones.
- Includes an additional metal ring accessory for magnetic surface on any device.
- Supports Apple ProRes at 4K120FPS and Samsung Pro Video 8K 30FPS.
- Free access to Lexar App for auto backup and mobile storage expansion.
- IP65 dust and water resistance, and impressive 3M drop resistance.
- Thin, stylish, liquid silicone build for comfortable grip, with cable organizer/lanyard.
- Thermal control design for sustained high performance.
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Pros:
- Massive 2TB capacity for extensive video projects.
- Revolutionary MagSafe compatibility for a clean setup.
- Unmatched speed for demanding video codecs.
- Superior durability (3M drop resistance).
- Valuable Lexar App for data management.
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Cons:
- Premium price point for top-tier capacity and features.
- Optimal speeds require specific USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 host support.
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User Impressions: Users report that the 2TB ES5 is a dream come true for extended shooting sessions. The magnetic attachment is consistently highlighted as a major convenience, and the raw speed handles even the most intensive recording formats with ease.
Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD, Up to 1050MB/s Read, Storage…
The Lexar 2TB ES3 External SSD is a fantastic all-rounder, offering a significant storage boost and impressive speeds in a durable package. While it doesn’t feature MagSafe or an integrated hub, it focuses on reliable, fast, and secure data transfer. At up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write, it’s 9.5X faster than traditional hard drives, making backups and storage expansion super-fast. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing robust external storage for their iPhone without the specialized features of the ‘Go’ or ‘ES5’ series.
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Key Features:
- Up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds, significantly faster than HDDs.
- Built-in double layer graphite sheets for efficient heat dissipation.
- Drop-resistant up to 2 meters for enhanced durability.
- Plug-and-play compatibility with a 2-in-1 USB-C/USB-A cable.
- Includes Lexar DataShield 256-bit AES encryption software.
- Access to Lexar Recovery Tool for file restoration.
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Pros:
- Excellent speed for general use and 4K video.
- Effective thermal management for consistent performance.
- Good durability with 2-meter drop resistance.
- Includes robust security and data recovery software.
- Wide compatibility with various devices.
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Cons:
- No MagSafe or integrated hub.
- Not IP-rated for water/dust resistance like some other Lexar models.
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User Impressions: Customers appreciate the ES3’s strong performance and the peace of mind offered by the encryption and recovery tools. It’s often recommended for everyday backups and expanding storage across multiple devices, including the iPhone.
Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD,…
The Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD is another fantastic option for iPhone users looking for speed and portability without breaking the bank. This model is explicitly compatible with the iPhone 15 series, making it an excellent choice for newer Apple device owners. Its thin, stylish metal design is smaller than a card and weighs only 42g, ensuring it easily fits into any pocket or bag. It’s all about high-speed data transfer and convenient on-the-go storage.
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Key Features:
- High-speed data transfer: USB 3.2 Gen 2 up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write.
- Wide compatibility, specifically including iPhone 15 series (not iPhone 14 or older).
- Thin, stylish, and durable metal design (42g, 10.5mm thick).
- Comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play convenience.
- Includes Lexar DataShieldTM 256-bit AES encryption software.
- Note: MagSafe is not available in this version.
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Pros:
- Explicit iPhone 15 series compatibility is a huge plus.
- Extremely portable and lightweight.
- Good speeds for most 4K video recording and large file transfers.
- Data encryption adds security.
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Cons:
- Not compatible with iPhone 14 and older models (due to USB-C requirement).
- No IP rating for dust/water resistance.
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User Impressions: iPhone 15 users particularly praise this drive for its direct compatibility and ease of use. Its sleek design and robust build quality for its size are frequently mentioned, making it a popular choice for daily use.
Lexar Professional Go USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C Portable SSD…
This Lexar Professional Go Portable SSD with USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C connectivity brings back the coveted hub functionality in a robust, compact package. It’s specifically highlighted for its universal compatibility, including the iPhone 15 series, making it a highly versatile tool for content creators. With its built-in hub offering up to 30W power supply, it’s perfect for connecting multiple devices and keeping your workflow powered and efficient, even when you’re far from an outlet.
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Key Features:
- Blazing-fast transfer speeds: up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write (USB 3.2 Gen 2).
- Expanded device connectivity with a built-in hub featuring 4 USB Type-C connectors and up to 30W power supply.
- Rugged durability: IP65 dust- and water-resistance and 3.3′ (1m) anti-drop protection.
- Compact and portable design: 1.71 x 0.98 x 0.32″ and just 0.5 oz.
- Universal compatibility, including Mac OSX 10.6+, Windows, iOS, Android 4.4+, and iPhone 15 series.
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Pros:
- Integrated 4-port Type-C hub with power delivery is highly valuable for mobile setups.
- Excellent speeds for demanding applications.
- Superior ruggedness with IP65 rating and drop protection.
- Ultra-small and lightweight, easy to carry everywhere.
- Confirmed compatibility with iPhone 15 series.
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Cons:
- Some users might find the hub adds a bit of bulk compared to a non-hub SSD.
- 30W power supply might be insufficient for very power-hungry devices connected to the hub.
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User Impressions: This model is a favorite for those who need a truly versatile mobile workstation. The hub functionality, combined with the excellent speeds and rugged build, makes it a top choice for filmmakers and photographers using their iPhone 15 on location.
Lexar ES3 1TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD,…
Another variant of the popular ES3 series, this 1TB External SSD reiterates its focus on speed, portability, and iPhone 15 series compatibility. It’s thin, stylish, and incredibly lightweight at just 42g, making it a perfect everyday companion for extending your iPhone’s storage. With its 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds, you can manage files and even record directly from your iPhone 15 with confidence. It’s definitely a strong contender for the Lexar best SSD for iPhone for general use and portability.
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Key Features:
- High-speed Data Transfer: USB 3.2 Gen 2 up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write.
- Wide Compatibility: Specifically supports iPhone 15 series (not iPhone 14 and older models).
- On The Go: Thin, stylish, and durable metal design, weighs 42g, and 10.5mm thick.
- Comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play.
- Data Safety First: Includes Lexar DataShieldTM 256-bit AES encryption software.
- Note: Magsafe is not available in this version.
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Pros:
- Explicitly compatible with iPhone 15, ensuring a smooth experience.
- Extremely lightweight and compact, ideal for pockets.
- Good speeds for daily transfers and mobile video.
- Includes security features for data protection.
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Cons:
- Limited compatibility (no iPhone 14 or older).
- No IP rating for environmental protection.
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User Impressions: Customers often highlight the ES3’s perfect balance of size, speed, and affordability. Its effortless integration with the iPhone 15 series is a recurring positive, making it a popular choice for quick backups and media transfers.
Lexar ES3 2TB External SSD, USB 3.2 Gen2 Portable SSD,…
Rounding out our list is the Lexar ES3 2TB External SSD, offering the same great features as its 1TB ES3 counterparts but with double the storage. This means you get a whopping 2 terabytes of high-speed, portable storage that’s fully compatible with your iPhone 15 series. It’s perfect for those who appreciate the ES3’s sleek, durable design and reliable performance but simply need more room for their growing collection of photos, videos, and large files. It’s a workhorse for expanding your iPhone’s digital landscape.
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Key Features:
- High-speed Data Transfer: USB 3.2 Gen 2 up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write.
- Wide Compatibility: Specifically supports iPhone 15 series (not iPhone 14 and older models).
- On The Go: Thin, stylish, and durable metal design, weighs 42g, and 10.5mm thick.
- Comes with a Type-C cable for plug-and-play.
- Data Safety First: Includes Lexar DataShieldTM 256-bit AES encryption software.
- Note: Magsafe is not available in this version.
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Pros:
- Large 2TB capacity ideal for extensive mobile media libraries.
- Confirmed compatibility with iPhone 15 series.
- Excellent balance of speed and portability.
- Robust security features with DataShield.
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Cons:
- Not backward compatible with older iPhones (pre-iPhone 15).
- Lacks the advanced ruggedness (IP rating) of some other Lexar models.
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User Impressions: For users needing significant storage for their iPhone 15, the 2TB ES3 is a top contender. Its seamless integration, high speeds, and compact form factor make it a very practical solution for carrying vast amounts of data.
FAQ: Your Questions About Lexar SSDs for iPhone Answered
Got more questions about pairing a Lexar SSD with your iPhone? We’ve got you covered!
Q1: Why do I need an external SSD for my iPhone?
A1: Modern iPhones, especially the iPhone 15 series, can record high-quality video like 4K ProRes, which consumes a lot of storage. An external SSD allows you to bypass your iPhone’s internal storage limits, recording directly to the drive, backing up large files, and expanding your overall available space for apps, photos, and videos.
Q2: Which iPhones are compatible with Lexar external SSDs?
A2: Generally, iPhones with a USB-C port (iPhone 15 series and newer) are directly compatible with Lexar SSDs that use a Type-C connector. Some Lexar SSDs specifically mention “iPhone 15 series compatibility,” while others are testing for “iPhone 17 Series devices.” Older iPhones (iPhone 14 and below) with a Lightning port are typically NOT directly compatible without specific adapters that may limit performance or functionality.
Q3: Can I record 4K video directly to a Lexar SSD from my iPhone?
A3: Yes! Many Lexar SSDs, particularly the Professional Go and ES5 series, offer blazing-fast write speeds (1000MB/s or even 2000MB/s) specifically designed to handle direct 4K 60fps or even 4K120FPS Apple ProRes recording from compatible iPhones (like the iPhone 15 Pro/Max).
Q4: What’s the difference between “USB 3.2 Gen 2” and “USB 3.2 Gen 2×2”?
A4: USB 3.2 Gen 2 offers speeds up to 10Gbps (around 1000-1050MB/s). USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 offers speeds up to 20Gbps (around 2000-2100MB/s). For iPhone users, most Lexar SSDs will operate at Gen 2 speeds when connected to an iPhone 15, as iPhones typically support Gen 2. The Gen 2×2 speeds are more for high-end PCs or Macs with compatible ports.
Q5: Are Lexar SSDs durable enough for outdoor use with my iPhone?
A5: Many Lexar SSDs, especially the “Professional Go” series and the ES5 Magnetic SSD, feature robust durability ratings like IP65 for dust and water resistance, and various levels of drop resistance (1 meter up to 3 meters). This makes them well-suited for mobile content creators who work in diverse environments. Always check the specific product’s features for its durability ratings.
Q6: What is MagSafe compatibility on an external SSD?
A6: MagSafe compatibility means the SSD has magnets that allow it to securely attach directly to the back of a MagSafe-enabled iPhone (iPhone 12 series and newer). This provides a clean, cable-free setup, which is incredibly convenient for recording video directly from your iPhone without a dangling drive. The Lexar ES5 Magnetic SSD is a prime example of this innovative feature.
Q7: How do I transfer files from my iPhone to a Lexar SSD?
A7: For compatible iPhones (iPhone 15 series), you simply connect the Lexar SSD via its USB-C cable. Your iPhone’s Files app will automatically recognize the drive. You can then drag and drop files, copy/paste, or directly save media to the SSD from supported apps. Some Lexar SSDs also come with companion apps (like the Lexar App for the ES5) that offer additional backup and management features.
Conclusion
There you have it – a deep dive into some of the best Lexar SSDs that can elevate your iPhone’s storage and capabilities. From the multi-functional Professional Go series with its integrated hub, to the revolutionary MagSafe-compatible ES5, and the ultra-portable ES3, Lexar offers a diverse range of high-performance external drives.
Finding the Lexar best SSD for iPhone ultimately depends on your specific needs: capacity, speed requirements for ProRes, the convenience of MagSafe, or the versatility of a built-in hub. Whatever your choice, investing in a Lexar SSD will undoubtedly free up your iPhone, enhance your mobile workflow, and give you the confidence to capture, create, and store without limits. Don’t let full storage slow you down – grab the perfect Lexar SSD and unleash your iPhone’s true power today!