New Wireless Charging Devices with Qi2 Standard Promise Improved Efficiency and Compatibility
Today, the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) announced the details of the first wireless charging devices that will support the Qi2 wireless charging standard. These chargers, along with future Qi2 products, will feature Apple MagSafe-like technology and utilize magnets to provide a secure and more efficient wireless charge. The introduction of Qi2 brings hope that Android phone users will have an easier time charging their devices with a secure magnetic connection. Additionally, the standard will expand the number of chargers that can power both Android and iOS devices wirelessly.
Currently, wireless charging for iPhones is limited to 7.5 W, unless using a MagSafe charger that supports 15 W. This limitation has led many consumers to choose MagSafe chargers over other non-Apple chargers that follow the Qi standard. It has taken Apple five years, since the introduction of the iPhone 8 series, to adopt the Qi standard. However, in January 2023, the WPC announced that Apple had provided the basis for the new Qi2 standard, building on its MagSafe technology.
Apple played a significant role in the creation of the standard’s Magnet Power Profile, along with other WPC members. The finalized Qi2 standard will include mandates for magnet strength and dimensions to ensure proper alignment between transmitters and receivers, resulting in a consistent charge and less energy loss through heat. The WPC believes this design will enable wireless charging for new product categories such as tablets and smartwatches, with the initial focus on phones and wireless earbuds.
While the compatibility between MagSafe and Qi2 magnets is unclear, a WPC spokesperson expressed confidence that future iPhones, potentially starting with the iPhone 15, will support Qi2. Anker, a company that announced Qi2 charging devices, claims that its products will be compatible with all MagSafe iPhone products. However, the Qi2 specification has not been finalized yet, so the differences between Qi2 and MagSafe remain uncertain.
Looking ahead, more products with Qi2 support are expected to be announced, and the WPC plans to update the standard to support charging beyond 15 W by mid-2024. However, it is unlikely that magnets will completely eliminate charging cables in the near future, especially with wired charging still offering the most efficient charge.
Anker and Belkin, two major players in the charging industry, announced their Qi2 products at the IFA 2023 trade show. Anker unveiled a series of seven products under its MagGo wireless charging line, with pricing and release dates yet to be determined. Belkin showcased its Qi2 chargers, including the BoostCharge Pro 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Pad and the BoostCharge Convertible Qi2 Wireless Pad to Stand, which will be available later this year and in Q1 of next year, respectively.
As the Qi2 standard gains traction, it has the potential to revolutionize wireless charging for both Android and iOS devices, offering improved efficiency and compatibility. Consumers can look forward to a future with more reliable and convenient wireless charging options.