The Qi (pronounced “chee”) wireless charging standard will be upgraded in 2023. The Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) has aptly named the upgraded standard Qi2 (“Qi Two”) and hopes to create a universal standard for wireless charging.
Qi2 is built from a new technology known as Magnetic Power Profile, which has its roots in Apple’s MagSafe technology. What’s even more interesting is that Apple itself is leading the development of Magnetic Power Profile technology, which has the potential to become the gold standard for wireless among all major devices, including Android.
What is MagSafe?
MagSafe is Apple’s magnetic/wireless charging technology. It works by placing several magnets around the iPhone’s internal charging coil. Originally announced for the iPhone 12 in 2020, the original idea behind his MagSafe was his device that magnetically snaps onto your iPhone while charging wirelessly via a wireless iPhone charger like the “Puck.” It was to sell MagSafe compatible accessories.
For some reason, the technology never really took off. Some manufacturers have released their own MagSafe compatible accessories, but none have the Apple flair. But that’s not the end of the story for this unique tech.
Why the new Qi2 standard matters
Qi2 has the potential to literally change the way devices are charged. One way to do that is by solving one of the biggest complaints people have about wireless charging: slow speeds. WPC spokesperson Paul Golden said in his January 2023 interview with The Verge:
“As soon as the Qi2 spec is finalized, we will begin work on the significantly higher power profile level of the next version of Qi2.”
While nothing has been confirmed, Golden’s statement suggests that soon after Qi2 devices are announced by the end of 2023, there will be Qi2 powered wireless charging devices that exceed Qi’s current charging limit of 15 watts. seems to suggest.
There’s a lot to get excited about considering these devices are optimally scheduled and, most importantly, safe to charge your phone wirelessly. Safe, fast, optimal wireless charging? That’s a win for us It looks like!
What does Android’s new Qi2 standard mean for you?
Delight Android owners, because the new Qi2 standard will finally bring features like MagSafe to Android devices.
Android and iOS owners can experience the definitive version of the technology together, making their favorite devices even more versatile with wireless charging technology and magnetic accessories.
WPC spilled quite a bit of tea at CES 2023, hinting that Qi2 could be used to wirelessly charge accessories and devices like VR headsets and smartwatches without flat charging coils. I was. It also said device makers can create their own branded Qi2 devices and accessories through a validation system designed to ensure products work well together.
But that validation system can be a double-edged sword. In theory, manufacturers like Samsung and Meta could choose Qi2-powered devices and accessories that work with their hardware. There’s no indication that this will happen, but as the old saying goes, ‘they have the technology’.
A MagSafe-Like Experience for Everyone
Android owners can now dive into the next generation of MagSafe-like features thanks to the new Qi2 standard enhanced (and led) by Apple’s Magnetic Power Profile technology. This could lead to the majority of devices supporting a more effective type of wireless charging in the near future.
It’s too early to tell if this tech is anything more than a gimmick or a clear winner, but it’s exciting nonetheless.