Explained: What is Qi2 and how Apple helped in improving wireless charging on Android phones

Wireless charging has been around for a while but hasn’t really gone mainstream. Apple tried its hand but publicly announced that its efforts weren’t bearing fruit. However, the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) has been working to make wireless charging better and more efficient. Recently, WPC unveiled Qi2 (pronounced as chee two) at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. Here we explain what is Qi2, and the role Apple and other companies have played in making it better.

What is Qi2?

Qi2 is the new enhanced wireless charging standard being developed by the Wireless Power Consortium. Qi2’s Magnetic Power Profile will provide an improved wireless charging user experience and pave the way for future features and enhancements, said WPC.

What role has Apple played in Qi2?

WPC said that Apple provided the basis for the new Qi2 standard building on its MagSafe technology. Apple introduced the MagSafe charging technology with iPhone 12 two years back and since then has expanded it to the AirPods. WPC also said that along with Apple WPC members developed the new Magnetic Power Profile, which is at the core of Qi2.
Qi2’s Magnetic Power Profile will ensure that phones or other rechargeable battery-powered mobile products are perfectly aligned with charging devices, thus providing improved energy efficiency and faster charging. This is something Apple has done remarkably well with MagSafe charging as the iPhone and the AirPods are well aligned because of the tech Apple has used.

How will Qi2 be better than Qi?

WPC says that because of the Magnetic Power Profile technology, Qi2 ensures devices and chargers align perfectly, improving energy efficiency. “More efficient charging also means faster charging because energy is not lost in the charging process,” said WPC while explaining the technology.
Further, WPC claims that Qi2 will enable the development of faster wireless charging while ensuring the process remains safe, won’t shorten battery life and won’t damage the receiver. WPC also says that the magnetic locking feature will support new product form factors, like an AR/VR headset. It will also support new types of accessories that magnetically attach to the back of the phone, like an extra battery.
Not to forget, Qi2 and wireless charger cut the chord in some way. WPC says that charging cords tend to wear out due to the mechanical stress of daily plugging and unplugging, ending up as waste in landfills — something that wireless chargers don’t suffer from.
Qi2-certified mobile phones and chargers are expected to be available for the 2023 holiday season.