Qi2's introduction to wireless charging may lead to the emergence of MagSafe chargers for Android devices.
New Era of Wireless Charging Arrives: Qi2 Makes Debut on Android Devices
The wireless charging landscape is set for a significant shakeup with the arrival of Qi2 (Qi v2.0), a new standard that promises faster and more efficient charging. This advancement opens the market to a host of new accessories that couldn't take advantage of the spec before.
Leading the charge is the HMD Skyline, the first Qi2-compatible Android smartphone, currently the only phone with real built-in Qi2 magnetic wireless charging support. However, the spotlight will soon shift to the Google Pixel 10 series, including the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, which is set to be the first major popular Android lineup to have native Qi2 magnetic charging. The launch of the Pixel 10 series starts on August 20, 2025, with the Pro Fold model expected around October 9, 2025.
The Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) has been at the forefront of this revolution, certifying 14 products and stating that several hundred more, including major Android smartphones, chargers, and power banks, are in the certification queue. Among Android brands, besides the HMD Skyline, Google’s Pixel 10 series is the next confirmed set of devices with Qi2 magnetic charging support.
Apple iPhones have already adopted Qi2, and with the new Qi2 25W standard, they continue to lead in adoption. Other Android phones may claim Qi2 compatibility but are mostly using a variant called Qi 2.2, which relies on magnetic rings in cases rather than built-in magnets.
The Qi2 25W standard boosts wireless charging speeds from 15W to 25W, promoting faster and more efficient charging. The WPC continues to expand the ecosystem for Qi2-compatible devices across major brands. Belkin, Mophie, Anker, and Aircharge have also announced Qi2 products.
Qi2's arrival is expected to lead to Android-compatible MagSafe accessories. The Belkin BoostCharge Pro, for instance, is compatible with Android devices that mimic MagSafe. A version of the magnetic ring for Android cases is available from PopSockets. Third-party Amazon knockoffs, however, embed the magnet inside the plastic, unlike the PopSockets version.
The Pixel 8 is one of the devices that might support MagSafe-compatible accessories. Qi2 includes documentation for magnet use based on Apple's Magnetic Power Profile. Some compatible products are still undergoing certification testing.
Qi2 is designed to be safe and energy-efficient. It was debuted at CES at the start of the year. The first batch of Qi2 products is expected to be available for holiday shopping. 9to5Google's Ben Schoon even suggests that a MagSafe-compatible Android smartphone may be released soon. The only thing missing from using the Apple-centered Belkin BoostCharge Pro with Android devices is iOS's Standby mode.
In summary, Qi2 promises a brighter future for wireless charging, with faster speeds, potential for future speed increases, and the possibility of MagSafe-compatible Android smartphones and accessories. The WPC is working diligently to expand the Qi2 ecosystem across major brands, making it an exciting time for wireless charging technology.
- Tech enthusiasts at Gizmodo are eager to explore the potential of Qi2, a new standard for wireless charging, as it could lead to the development of MagSafe-compatible accessories for Android devices.
- As Android brands such as Google and HMD integrate Qi2 magnetic charging into their devices, the future of technology looks promising with faster and more efficient charging solutions for gadgets like smartphones.
- With the arrival of Qi2, the landscape of technology is shifting, with companies like Belkin, Mophie, Anker, and Aircharge announcing Qi2 products, setting the stage for a tech revolution in wireless charging.
