Per a new rumor from Max Weinbach, Apple is apparently planning to including a “slightly bigger” wireless charging coil in the 2021 model iPhone, which will not only yield improved heat management and higher wattage, but could be paving the way towards reverse wireless charging.
The larger coil would allow for a greater surface area wherein wireless charging could be induced. Weinbach’s previous reporting stated that the 2021 iPhones will feature stronger MagSafe magnets, which could be a reason behind the increased coil size.
If reverse wireless charging were implemented, it would enable users to charge wireless charging compatible devices, such as AirPods, by placing them on the back of the iPhone.
Despite Apple holding off on officially announcing a reverse wireless charging feature feature, FCC filings for the 2020 iPhone revealed earlier this year that all models of the iPhone 12 lineup include the ability to reverse wirelessly charge other devices, such as AirPods (second generation), AirPods Pro, or newer Apple Watch models.
Bloomberg has also stated that Apple is planning reverse wireless charging capabilities for the next-generation iPad Pro in 2022. Reverse wireless charging does significantly drain a device’s battery, and Apple may feel as though that the feature would make more sense in an iPad Pro, thanks to its larger battery, compared to an iPhone.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.
Via MacRumors, EverythingApplePro, and Bloomberg