The upcoming advancement in wireless charging technology is on the horizon with the newly approved Qi2 standard. As announced by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC), this standard is set to revolutionize and standardize wireless charging globally, offering significant benefits and potentially rendering cables obsolete.
There was speculation about whether the Qi2 standard would debut in late 2023 or be delayed until 2024. Given the lucrative opportunity of the holiday season, industry players were keen on a 2023 launch. This anticipation has now been confirmed, with the first Qi2-certified products expected to hit the market before year’s end.
Unifying Wireless Charging Standards
The Qi2 wireless charging standard made a significant impact at this year’s CES in Las Vegas, where it was introduced. It not only won the best technology award but also gained numerous accolades throughout the year. This breakthrough is the result of collaborative efforts among various specialists and companies, building on Apple‘s MagSafe technology.
Currently, over 100 devices are either undergoing certification or have already been certified for Qi2 compatibility. Brands like Anker and Belkin are gearing up with Qi2-certified accessories, ready for the holiday season.
Four Key Promises of Qi2 Technology
The WPC highlights four major benefits of the Qi2 wireless charging technology: a robust magnetic system, enhanced charging efficiency, increased speed, and greater user convenience. These improvements are anticipated to be immediately noticeable once users start using these new certified wireless chargers.
The Qi2 technology aims to drastically improve charging speeds. While the previous Qi standard capped at 7.5 W, Qi2 promises to double this, reaching up to 15 W. This requires both a compatible device and a certified charger.
This advancement in wireless charging technology is poised to change perceptions, offering a unified charging experience. For instance, iPhones using MagSafe chargers can reach up to 15 W, and Qi2 standard aims to offer the same speed, regardless of the phone brand.
Future Prospects and Exceptions
While the Qi2 standard sets a new global benchmark at 15 W, some manufacturers might continue using their proprietary wireless charging technologies. For example, OnePlus offers up to 50 W charging, indicating that exceptions to this standard still exist.
Looking ahead, there are expectations for further enhancements to Qi2, potentially exceeding the 15 W limit in 2024. Despite these advancements, wired charging remains the fastest method. However, the convenience and evolving efficiency of systems like MagSafe are making wireless charging increasingly popular. As Qi2 technology gains traction, consumers can expect to see a diverse range of Qi2-certified chargers with unique designs and personalization options in stores.