Future Android Phones Will Integrate Magsafe-Style Wireless Fast Charging

The Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) has launched Qi2, the wireless charging successor to Qi that leverages some of Apple’s MagSafe charging methods. The goal is to build a uniform system that (should) function with both Android and Apple devices, according to a press release from the WPC.

Qi2 will supersede the current Qi standard, which has been in use for almost 13 years. It’ll be based on Apple’s MagSafe technology, which debuted with the iPhone 12, and will employ a similar combination of magnets and a wireless charging coil. The Magnetic Power Profile, on the other hand, will guarantee that phones and other gadgets are exactly positioned for optimal charging speed and efficiency. It also ensures cross-brand compatibility.

“Qi2’s perfect alignment improves energy efficiency by reducing the energy loss that can happen when the phone or the charger is not aligned,” said Paul Struhsaker, executive director of the World Power Conference. “Just as important, Qi2 will greatly reduce the landfill waste associated with wired charger replacement due to plugs breaking and the stress placed on cords from daily connecting and disconnecting.”

The first Qi2.0 version will be released later this year, with support for 15 watt charging, foreign object recognition, and other features. It will also increase safety and avoid device damage or battery life shortening for select devices.

The Magnetic Power Profile standard also makes future enhancements easy. According to WPC, future generations will “significantly” increase charging levels above 15 watts. It might also enable wireless charging for oddly shaped accessories that aren’t compatible with today’s flat charging pads.

Some questions remain, such as whether Qi2 will be backwards compatible with the present Qi standard or Apple’s MagSafe. According to reports, it would also need verification, allowing manufacturers to prohibit charging from non-certified devices.

Manufacturers of devices and chargers should work hard to ensure compatibility. The Qi2 specification is expected to be completed this summer, with goods arriving in time for the holidays in 2023.