The next generation of wireless adapters is about to launch.
Per an announcement released on Wednesday by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC), the first wireless chargers that meet the new Qi2 standard are set to launch in time for the holiday shopping season.
Announced earlier this year, Qi2 is a next-generation Qi charging technology that incorporates a Magnetic Power Profile. Qi2 devices will work like Apple’s MagSafe feature, using magnets for alignment and speedier charging.
Apple’s iPhone 15 models represent the first iPhones that support the Qi2 standard. The WPC has stated that more than 100 Qi2 devices are currently in testing, including chargers from companies like Belkin, Mophie, Anker, and Aircharge.
The Magnetic Power Profile was designed based on MagSafe contributions from Apple, and it is being combined with the new Extended Power Profile (EPP) to form what is considered “Qi2.”
The Qi2 standard is also meant to ensure that devices are perfectly aligned with chargers to allow for improved energy efficiency and faster charging. The standard will allow for new accessories that would not be chargeable wirelessly using existing flat surface-to-flat surface devices.
Previous announcements have cited that devices will be able to charge at up to 15W, although it’s unknown if Apple’s iPhone 15 models will support faster charging, even if a Qi2 charger is equipped. Apple’s technical specifications page for the iPhone 15 says that the devices support Qi wireless charging “up to 7.5W,” with no mention of faster charging. MagSafe-enabled iPhone 15 models charge at 7.5W on the current Qi standard, and 15W when using Apple’s MagSafe chargers.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.
Via MacRumors and the Wireless Power Consortium