Belkin International
Belkin International is a California-based consumer electronics accessories company founded in 1983 by Chet Pipkin. Known for chargers, cables, power banks, and connectivity products for smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart home devices.
The Story
Belkin International was founded in 1983 by Chet Pipkin, who started the company from his garage in Playa Vista, California. Originally focused on manufacturing cables for personal computers, the company identified a growing need for reliable connectivity accessories as the personal computing market expanded in the 1980s.
From those early cable assemblies, Belkin grew into a global consumer electronics accessories brand. The company broadened its product lines to include chargers, power banks, wireless chargers, screen protectors, car mounts, and connectivity solutions for smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart home devices. Belkin became especially known for its iPhone and iPad accessories, building a reputation for quality and reliability.
Today, Belkin International remains family-owned and operates worldwide, with products sold through retailers, carriers, and its own e-commerce channels. The company's ability to adapt from computer cables to mobile accessories illustrates how a focused manufacturing business can evolve with consumer technology trends over decades.
Key Facts & Metrics
Products & Services
Belkin USB C to USB C Cable 2-Pack, 6.6ft, 240W
Braided USB-C to USB-C cable, 6.6 feet, 240W charging for iPhone 17, Galaxy S26, MacBook, iPad Pro, and Nintendo Switch.
Belkin Compact Wall Charger 45W
45W USB-C PD fast charging wall charger with cable included, compatible with iPhone, iPad, MacBook, and Samsung Galaxy devices.
Company Timeline
1983 — Belkin founded
Chet Pipkin founded Belkin in his parents' garage in Torrance, California, making computer cables.
1985 — First major retail contract
Secured first large retail distribution deal, moving from garage production to scaled manufacturing.
1990 — International expansion
Expanded distribution to Europe and Asia, becoming a global cable and connectivity brand.
2000 — Diversified into networking
Began producing USB hubs, network switches, and surge protectors beyond just cables.
2015 — Wireless charging leadership
Launched BOOST↑CHARGE wireless charging lineup, becoming a category leader.
2018 — Foxconn acquisition
Foxconn acquired Belkin, providing capital for accelerated product innovation and global scale.
