In a recent announcement, Anker, a leading technology company, revealed that its upcoming Qi2-compatible wireless chargers are set to provide faster 15W charging for the latest iPhone models, including iPhone 13, iPhone 14, and iPhone 15. This development comes hot on the heels of Apple’s preview of the next iOS update, which reportedly includes Qi2 compatibility for these specific iPhone models.
While Apple has not officially commented on this development, it is expected that the support for faster charging will extend to all Qi2 chargers. The updated Qi2 spec, known for its Magnetic Power Profile, incorporates magnets and authentication features contributed by Apple. This integration allows for fast wireless charging that is compatible with both iPhones and, eventually, certain Android devices.
Anker spokesperson Mary Woodbury confirmed through an email statement to The Verge that the new MagGo products from Anker, unlike older Qi products, can support 15W charging. This is a significant upgrade from the previous half-speed 7.5W charging experienced with iPhones using older Qi chargers. The MagGo products are expected to match the maximum charging rate provided by Apple’s MagSafe-branded gear.
When Anker introduced the MagGo products in August, details such as model numbers, pricing, and release dates were not disclosed. However, the announcement hinted at a diverse lineup, including a kickstand-equipped portable power bank, wireless charging station designs for simultaneous charging of iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch, a 15W-capable pad charger, and a powerful 67W spherical magnetic charging station designed for desktop use with 8-in-1 output.
Apple recently released the candidate version of iOS 17.2, noting the addition of Qi2 compatibility specifically for the iPhone 13 and 14. The iPhone 15 had already listed support for Qi2 at its launch. However, the release note did not provide details about the charging speed with non-MagSafe hardware.
While the anticipation for faster third-party chargers aligns with the initial promises of Qi2’s MagSafe-like wireless charging, it’s crucial to note that certified products are not yet available for purchase. Companies like Anker, Belkin, and Mophie have announced Qi2-compatible hardware, but consumers await the actual availability in the market.
The article concludes by acknowledging the potential for third-party chargers to match the charging speeds of MagSafe-branded technology, but the lack of certified products raises questions about the timeline for their release and consumers’ ability to harness the promised benefits.
As Apple users eagerly await the integration of Qi2-compatible wireless chargers, Anker’s announcement offers a glimpse into the potential advancements in charging technology. The prospect of faster charging for the latest iPhone models is undoubtedly exciting, but consumers must wait for the official release of certified products to experience these enhancements. The evolving landscape of wireless charging, marked by collaborations between tech giants and third-party manufacturers, promises a future where charging speeds are no longer limited to proprietary technology.
