The Zagg Desk Mat with Wireless Charging helps keep clutter off your desk. Photo: Zagg
The Zagg Desk Mat with Wireless Charging keeps your iPhone and other gear juiced up while also acting as a nonslip workspace, organizer, mousepad and stylus holder.
It launched Thursday.
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Zagg Desk Mat with Wireless Charging merges multiple accessories
Wireless charging is very convenient — all it takes is placing the iPhone on the right spot. And whether you have a mouse or a trackpad, you need a good surface to put it on. The same goes for your keyboard. And iPad users can appreciate a groove to hold an Apple Pencil. Zagg’s newest accessory combines all of these into one, reducing clutter.
“The Desk Mat with Wireless Charging defines your space and serves as home base for all your work devices,” said Zagg. “Its smooth, pressed felt top is perfect for your mouse. And it has grooves for your stylus and other writing utensils.”
The charging mat provides up to 10W. It’s compatible with iPhone, of course, but it’s clearly made with other accessories from the company in mind, like the Zagg Pro Keyboard, Zagg Pro Mouse, and Zagg Pro Stylus 2. All of these support wireless charging.
The desk mat gets power from an integrated USB-C cable.
There’s a good chance you own a couple of gadgets that support wireless charging now, be it your iPhone or Android phone, wireless earbuds or smartwatch. Multi-device wireless chargers can help power them all up in one place, without the need for a bunch of cords messing up your space. There are dozens of these accessories out there today, and we’ve tested a bunch of the most popular models. You’ll find out top picks below for the best wireless charging stations, plus some advice on how to choose the right one for your needs.
Do wireless charging pads work with any phone or device?
It won’t be shocking to hear that your smartphone choice influences your choice in a wireless charger. Only iPhone owners will need to consider Apple Watch compatibility. Likewise, you’ll need an Android phone if you expect to power a Galaxy Watch. Buy an iPhone 12 or newer and you can attach your phone magnetically using MagSafe, while the latest Android phones often have some form of fast wireless charging.
However, it’s not simply a question of getting the fastest charger. You should consider what you might buy in the future. Don’t buy a two-device charger if you have an iPhone and AirPods, but have been eyeing an Apple Watch. And if you think you might switch to an Android cell phone (or vice versa), you’ll want to get something more generic that doesn’t lock you into any one ecosystem.
Some chargers include cradles, trays and other features that are heavily optimized for particular products, and might not even account for year-to-year changes. Some vertical stands are too tall for small phones like the iPhone 13 mini, for instance. While you can never completely guarantee that next year’s phone or watch will work, it’s worth buying something more likely to last.
Having said all this, don’t be afraid to get a charger with vendor-specific features if you’re fiercely loyal to one brand. Apple isn’t expected to ditch MagSafe any time soon, and Samsung will likely keep making Galaxy Watches for a while to come.
How to pick the best wireless charging pad for your needs: Location, location, location
Sebastian Bednarek on Unsplash
Even without a charging cable to worry about, you’re probably buying a multi-device wireless charger with one location in mind. It might sit on your nightstand or on your desk. Not everyone buys a charger just for themselves, though; you might want to use one as a shared station for you and a partner.
If the charger will sit on your nightstand, you’ll likely want a compact, stable unit that won’t swallow all your free space or tumble to the floor (and if it does fall, one with enough durability to survive). You may also prefer a lay-flat phone pad so your screen is less likely to keep you awake. The Apple Watch and some other smartwatches can double as tiny alarm clocks, so you might want a vertical charging option for any wristwear.
At a desk, however, you may want a vertical phone stand so you can check notifications. Will the charger sit on a low table? Horizontal charger pads may make it easier to grab your devices in a hurry. Travel chargers should fold up or otherwise protect the pads while they’re in your bag. And, yes, aesthetics count. You may want something pretty if it’s likely to sit in a posh room where guests will see it.
If it’s a shared charging station, you’ll want something with multiple generic surfaces, and you’ll probably have to forgo charging more than one watch at a time. In those cases, consider the handful of 4-in-1 wireless chargers on the market, or models with USB ports.
Wireless charging speed and performance
It’s no secret that wireless charging is typically slower than wired, and powering multiple devices adds a new wrinkle. As these chargers often have to support a wide range of hardware, you’ll have to forget about the fastest, device-specific options from brands like Google, OnePlus and Samsung.
That’s not to say these will be slow, but there just isn’t much separating them on the charging speed front. As a general rule, the quickest multi-device chargers tend to top out at 15W for phones. And you’ll need an Apple MagSafe charger if you want to get that full 15W on an iPhone.
It’s rare that you’ll find a truly slow example, mind you. Even some of the most affordable options we’ve seen will recharge your phone at a reasonable 7.5W or 10W, and the 5W for other devices is more than enough. If you’re only docking overnight or while you work, speed won’t make a huge difference. Just be sure that whatever you buy is powerful enough for a phone in a case. It’s also worth noting that fast charging for other devices is rare, although you’ll occasionally find speedier options for the Apple Watch Series 7.
Quality, box contents and small details
Melvin Thambi on Unsplash
The difference between a good charger and a great one often boils down to little details. You won’t always need to pay extra to get those, but a larger outlay may be worthwhile to avoid frustrations for years to come.
A textured surface like rubberized plastic or fabric will reduce the chances your expensive gadgets will slide off their charging points. The base should have enough grip and weight that the charger won’t easily shift out of place. Any floating or vertical stands should be sturdy — steer clear if there’s any wobble.
You’ll also want to make a note of what’s included in the box. Some chargers don’t ship with power adapters, and we’ve seen numerous models whose Apple Watch “stands” are merely holders for your existing charging puck.
Then there’s helpful touches like status lights for confirming correct placement, although you’ll want to make sure they dim or shut off after a certain amount of time. And while it’s still true that cradles and trays can limit compatibility, you do want your devices to stay where you put them. Shelves and lips can prevent your phone or watch from sliding. Oh, and be wary of floating smartwatch mounts, as heavier timepieces might sag.
Belkin
It doesn’t get much better than Belkin’s most advanced model of wireless charger if you’re an Apple devotee. The high-quality BoostCharge Pro 3-in-1 pad offers 15W MagSafe charging for your iPhone, fast charging for the Apple Watch and a space for AirPods Pro or other earbuds with Qi-compatible cases. The base is weighty, covered in rubberized plastic and includes a discreet status light for your earbuds. More importantly, it supports more devices than you might think. Although the Pro pad uses MagSafe, the horizontal layout lets you charge virtually any phone at reduced speeds. We also have to give Belkin kudos for one of the most convenient Apple Watch chargers we’ve seen. It not only works horizontally and vertically, but includes a knob to adjust for different sizes and third-party cases.
This is quite large compared to some 3-in-1 chargers, so it’s not the greatest choice for a nightstand. Consider the smaller footprint of its counterpart, the BoostCharge Pro 3-in-1 Wireless Charger with MagSafe 15W, if you have an iPhone 12 or newer. You also won’t find USB ports, and the indented earbud pad rules out a second phone. Still, it’s easily worth the $150 asking price.
Pros
Supports three devices at once
Supports 15W MagSafe charging for iPhones
Can adjust to support different Apple Watch models
There are many quality high-end chargers to choose from, but Logitech’s Powered 3-in-1 Dock offers a few features that help it rise above. It consumes relatively little space, and the rubberized horizontal and vertical chargers deliver up to 10W while gripping your devices tightly, so both you and your partner can top off.
It has a few limitations, though. The vertical stand isn’t well-suited to the iPhone 13 mini and other small phones. And while the floating stand works with most Apple Watches, heavier ones tend to sag (such as this author’s steel Series 5 with a Leather Link strap) and might not charge properly. If those aren’t issues, though, your $130 will be well-spent.
Pros
Compact design
Supports three devices at once
Vertical spot supports up to 10W of power delivery
You can find plenty of more affordable 3-in-1 chargers. Few, however, offer quite as much for the money as the Anker 533 Wireless Charger Stand. It offers an adjustable-angle 10W vertical stand and lets you charge an Apple Watch either horizontally or vertically. There’s also a 20W USB-C power adapter in the box, so you won’t have to buy an aftermarket brick (or rely on proprietary cabling) to get started.
The limitations mostly stem from the cost-cutting measures. You probably won’t have room for a second phone. And like some chargers we’ve seen, the Apple Watch mount is a bring-your-own-cable affair that only supports older USB-A connections. The included cable with your Series 8 or SE won’t work here. At $58, though, this 3-in-1 wireless charging stand is a good bargain.
If you’re willing to spend a bit more and live in Apple’s universe, the Otterbox 3-in-1 Charging Station for MagSafe is worth your attention. The extremely small footprint of this wireless charger is ideal for nightstands. You can tuck a trio of your phone, earbuds and Apple Watch into an area normally reserved for a single device. The company supplies a surprisingly powerful 36W USB-C power adapter in the box that serves as a fast wired option in a pinch.
The caveats are clear. The floating magnetic charger rules out Android phones and older iPhones. You’ll need to bring your own Apple Watch cable, and the USB-A port won’t work with the USB-C cables bundled with newer watches. The horizontal-only watch mount also rules out clock functionality. The overall balance of space and utility is still difficult to top for $80.
Pros
Compact design
Supports three devices at once
Includes a 36W USB-C power adapter in the box
Cons
Floating MagSafe spot doesn’t work with older iPhones and Android phones
The 2-in-1 field is highly competitive and makes it difficult to choose an absolute winner. However, Mophie’s Dual Wireless Charging Pad hits many of the right marks. It can charge two Qi-certified devices at up to 10W each, making it a great pick for a two-phone household. The fabric surface with rubberized trim should keep your gadgets steady, and the status lights will confirm accurate placement. There’s even a USB-A port to plug in your watch charger or any other wired hardware.
The complaints are few. You won’t charge at 15W, and we’d rather have USB-C than USB-A. It’s nonetheless a safe choice at $80, and worth buying over less expensive options.
Pros
Can charge two devices simultaneously, both with 10W
Multi-device chargers from phone manufacturers tend to be either compromised or highly proprietary, but Samsung’s Fast Charger Duo (sometimes known as the 15W Duo Fast Wireless Charger) bucks that trend. It’s compact and delivers high-speed charging for one phone and an accessory, whether it’s a Samsung Galaxy Watch or another manufacturer’s earbuds. The status lights will even dim at night, and change color to indicate when your batteries are full.
This won’t help for two-phone households, and Samsung only guarantees 15W charging for some of its own phones (the Galaxy Note 10, Galaxy S20 and later). You’ll also want to be mindful of which version you buy, as there are variants with and without a power adapter in the box. Neither is cheap at respective prices of $90 and $70. This remains an elegant charger for nightstands and travel, though, and the pads are sufficiently device-agnostic.
Pros
Supports 15W charging
Compact design
Cons
Power adapter included only with certain variations
There are few wireless chargers built with more than one person in mind, but Mophie’s 4-in-1 Wireless Charging Mat is the most well-rounded of the bunch. The pad can handle up to four devices wirelessly at 10W, including two phones and two accessories. There’s also a spare USB-A port for charging earlier Apple Watch models (using the included mount and your own cable) or wired items. A fabric surface, subtle device trays and indicator lights will also take the mysteries out of charging.
This is a giant charger compared to most, and you might find it limiting if your home has more than one Apple Watch or accessories that won’t fit the smaller charging pads. Even so, Mophie is offering considerable value for $150. The 4-in-1 does more than some 3-in-1 chargers at that price, and it doesn’t suffer the compatibility issues of rivals like Nomad’s Base Station Pro.
Pros
Supports up to four devices at once
Attractive design with indicator lights make it easy to use
Yesterday, Samsung started rolling out One UI 6.1 to many high-end smartphones and tablets, including the Galaxy S23 series devices. While the new software customization brings a ton of exciting and useful features, including Galaxy AI, many people have been complaining on the internet that their Galaxy S23 is charging at a slower speed and lower wattage after upgrading to One UI 6.1. Well, we decided to check out if that’s the case, and what we found will not keep you from installing the update.
The Galaxy S23 supports charging at up to 25 watts. However, on Samsung’s Community forum for UAE, a user that goes by ‘Pruone’ made a post claiming that One UI 6.1 has restricted the charging speed of their Galaxy S23 to 15 watts. They shared a screenshot of Electron, an app that gives you battery and charging statistics, which shows that the device is charging at 15 watts. Quoting that post, an account on X/Twitter with the handle @theonecid asked people if they were facing the same issue, and many people agreed that they noticed their Galaxy S23 charging at a slower speed.
To check if that’s the case, we took our Galaxy S23, which is running on One UI 6.1, plugged it into a 120W PPS charger, and measured the charging speed using the Pluggable Voltage And Amperage Meter. According to it, our Galaxy S23 was getting charged at around 20W as you can see in the image below. That’s 5W lower than what Samsung claims but the phone charges at 25W occasionally, especially when the battery is very low. Typically, it gets charged at 20 watts, even on One UI 6.0. So, no, Samsung hasn’t limited the charging speed of the Galaxy S23 to 15W with the One UI 6.1 update.
It is also worth mentioning that as the battery percentage keeps increasing, the charging wattage keeps going down. So, it is possible that the phones of those users might be charging at 15W because the battery percentage is at a higher level. It is also possible that Electron could be showing wrong readings but the chances of that happening are very low. We will soon check the charging wattage with Electron and also perform the test on our Galaxy S23 Ultra and update the article with our findings.
Your iPhone 12 just got better — it can use Qi2 accessories. Photo: WPC/Cult of Mac
Add the iPhone 12 to the list of handsets that support the new Qi2 cross-platform wireless charging standard. Apparently, the older handset got support for the newest chargers without Apple mentioning it.
More recent iPhone models can already use Qi2 accessories.
Bonus: Qi2 for iPhone 12 and newer
Qi2 (“Chi Two”) brings MagSafe to Android phones and other devices. It allows them to magnetically snap and align to wireless chargers, making for a more secure connection. This, in turn, enables faster charging while generating less waste heat.
But some people wondered why iPhone 12 was left off the list. It also has MagSafe so adding the new standard would seem like a snap.
Turns out it happened but Apple didn’t announce it. Testing done by MacWorld discovered that iOS 17.4 added Qi2 to iPhone 12.
To be clear, the magnets built into Apple’s handset from 2020 were already compatible. But the device couldn’t charge at a full 15W, instead being limited to 7.5W. But with full support, the wireless charging speed doubled with the iOS update.
Qi2 is expected to unite wireless charging for iPhone and Android, but Samsung skipping it in the 2024 Galaxy S24 dealt these hopes a serious blow. Maybe the Korean conglomerate is waiting on more accessories.
Bring on the Qi2 accessories
Qi2-compatible accessories are just now coming on the market, and many more are promised to debut soon.
iOS 17.4 brings support for 15W wireless charging with Qi2 to the iPhone 12, according to Macworld.
Qi2 is a next-generation wireless charging technology designed by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) and based on MagSafe. MagSafe was first introduced on the iPhone 12 and offers speeds of up to 15W. Third-party wireless chargers without MagSafe certification have been limited to maximum speeds of 7.5W, but Qi2 can reach the full 15W.
Last year, Apple enabled 15W speeds with Qi2 wireless chargers on the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 via iOS 17.2. The iPhone 15 lineup already supported Qi2 upon launch, leaving the iPhone 12 as the only iPhone model with MagSafe without the faster charging capability when using Qi2 accessories.
Citing reader reports and its own tests, Macworld claims that the iPhone 12 is able to charge at 15W when using a Qi2 wireless charger after an update to iOS 17.4. When using a Qi2 charger, the device now displays the animation that only appears when 15W charging is active and tests with the Anker Qi2 MagGo Wireless Charger demonstrated charging speeds in line with MagSafe.
Apple openly stated that iOS 17.2 brought Qi2 support to the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14, but it did not make any such claim about iOS 17.4 and the iPhone 12. This may be because the iPhone 12’s wireless charging technology was built around the original Qi standard and MagSafe before Qi2 was finalized.
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Samsung’s next flagship foldables might bring larger batteries than their predecessors, but they may not come with an upgrade in charging speeds.
The Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 have received an important certification in China that lists both phones with Samsung’s 25W charger. That charger carries the model number EP-TA800 and is the standard 25W charger that is tested by regulatory authorities for every Galaxy smartphone and tablet that supports 25W charging.
Galaxy Fold 6 and Flip 6 certification with Samsung’s standard 25W adapter
However, just because the certification mentions a 25W charger doesn’t mean that 25W will be the maximum charging speed on the new phones. Flagship Galaxy phones that support 45W charging are tested with the 25W charger as well, and these certifications aren’t always the final confirmation of a device’s maximum charging speed.
That said, if Samsung does bring 45W charging to its foldables this year, there’s a high likelihood that only the Z Fold 6 will support it. The Z Flip 6 is expected to come with the same battery capacity–4,000 mAh—as the base Galaxy S24, which also tops out at 25W charging (only the S24+ and S24 Ultra can charge at 45W).
It’s also worth mentioning that there is no solid evidence that the Z Fold 6 will come with a bigger battery. If it doesn’t, then Samsung may not equip either model with 45W support. Samsung is welcome to surprise us, though, especially since its foldables have been stuck at 25W charging since their inception.
More information about the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 should begin showing up in the coming weeks as we get closer to the second half of the year. Their official launch will take place in early July, a week or two earlier than the Z Fold 5 and Flip 5.
Belkin just launched one of the first multi-device charging stands with Qi2. Photo: Belkin
The Belkin BoostCharge Pro 3-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Stand with Qi2 offers 15W charging for iPhone and other Qi2-enabled handsets, fast charging for Apple Watch, and optimal charging for AirPods, too.
This third version of Belkin’s charging stand launched Tuesday.
New Belkin charging stand is one of the first with Qi2
For those who are unfamiliar with it, Qi2 is heavily based on the MagSafe system that Apple developed, including building magnets into both the phone and the charging mat.
It’s expected to unite wireless charging for iPhone and Android, but Samsung skipping it in the Galaxy S24 dealt these hopes a serious blow. Still, iOS handsets going back to iPhone 13 support Qi2.
And accessory makers are going ahead with products that use the new standard. Hence Tuesday’s release of the Belkin BoostCharge Pro 3-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Stand with Qi2.
It’s three chargers in one. Photo: Belkin
The T-shaped stand has two elevated charging mats. One is for an iPhone or Android and can supply up to 15W, as noted. Users can adjust the angle of the phone for optimal viewing while watching videos, reading texts or video chatting.
Next to this is an elevated mat for fast charging Apple Watch Series 7 and later, plus both Apple Watch Ultra versions. On the base is a mat that can send 5W to AirPods or other device.
The accessory is made with a minimum 75% post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials.
Now available
After being announced CES 2024 in January, Belkin BoostCharge Pro 3-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Stand with Qi2 can be ordered today for $149.99. Its available in black or white colorways.
Belkin also recently introduced the Auto-Tracking Stand Pro that can hold up an iPhone, rotate and tilt to keep the camera focused on the user during video recording.
Epic Games is once again after Apple, this time accusing the Cupertino company of violating a court ruling that requires Apple to allow developers to offer in-app links to direct customers to third-party purchase options on the web.
Apple tweaked its U.S. App Store policies back in January, and developers are permitted to put one link in their apps that leads to a website where customers can make a purchase without using the in-app purchase system. Apple is still charging commission for these purchases, requiring developers to pay between 12 and 27 percent (three percent lower than the 15/30 standard fee).
Epic Games is unhappy with the fee that Apple continues to charge, today telling the court that Apple has not complied with the order, and asking that Apple be held in contempt of court. Epic Games claims that the fees make the links “commercially unusable,” thereby subverting the injunction.
Apple violates the Injunction in three ways. First, with respect to External Links, Apple has imposed new fees and enacted a slew of new rules that work together to make the links commercially unusable. This new fee and accompanying web of restrictions subverts the purpose of the Injunction, allowing Apple to continue extracting its excessive commissions and making it effectively impossible for a developer to inform users about, and direct users toward, an alternative platform for making a purchase.
Second, Apple continues to categorically prohibit any steering using “buttons” or “other calls to action”. Specifically, Apple does not allow External Links that resemble a “button” in any way.
Third, Apple’s Guideline 3.1.3 still prohibits certain apps, including all multiplatform services (i.e., apps that operate across multiple platforms and allow users to access the same content across these platforms, including popular games such as Minecraft), from “within the app, encourag[ing] users to use a purchasing method other than in-app purchase”. This language expressly contravenes the Injunction by prohibiting any steering to alternative purchasing methods.
Epic Games collected statements from other developers that have spoken out against Apple’s App Store fees, including Paddle CEO Christian Owens and Down Dog CEO Benjamin Simon.
Apple was initially ordered to make the App Store changes in 2021 as part of its court battle with Epic Games. Judge Yvonne Gonzalez-Rogers, who oversaw the case, took issue with Apple’s anti-steering rules. Apple was able to delay implementing the App Store changes for a few years while it appealed, but none of the courts decided to change the verdict. Apple ultimately took it to the Supreme Court, but the court declined to hear the case, so Apple had to comply immediately at the beginning of the year.
Epic Games claims that the fee Apple charges for the link is “financially unattractive” for developers who want to choose another payment solution, and it “prevents any meaningful competition between payment solutions.” The company wants the court to require Apple to bring its policies into compliance with the injunction.
Audi has opened a new EV charging Hub in Frankfurt, this is the sixth EV charging hub in Frankfurt and it comes with fast charging of up to 320 kW, and it uses four high-power-charging (HPC) stations.
“In the Frankfurt metropolitan area, we’ve got a high density of electrically powered vehicles. At the same time, the supply of charging points is constantly increasing. The charging hub is not only a welcome additional charging opportunity, but it also gives users the option to spend the waiting time at the adjacent Klassikstadt building,” says Frankfurt City Councillor Stephanie Wüst, Head of Department for Economic Affairs, Law, and City Marketing. Rapid charging in and around city centers is particularly important for drivers who cannot charge their cars at home or at work, Wüst notes.
Audi is investing in downtown charging. “In Frankfurt, we’re expecting about 5,000 charging operations per year,” says Nikolai Senst, who is responsible for managing the rollout of Audi charging hubs. “We anticipate there will be a similarly high rate of return customers as at the other locations.” In Nuremberg, where Audi has been operating an Audi charging hub with six charging points and a 200-square-meter lounge upstairs since December 2021, the return rate is approximately 70 percent. The hub is available to drivers of all brands of car. Audi customers can book a charging slot online via the myAudi app.
You can find out more information about the new Audi EV Charging Hub in Frankfurt over at the Audi website at the link below.
Source Audi
Filed Under: Auto News
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Reverse wireless charging is an innovative feature that has gained popularity in the smartphone industry over recent years. This technology allows a smartphone to act as a wireless charging pad for other devices, enabling the transfer of power from the phone to another device that supports wireless charging. Before delving into how it works and its practical applications, let’s explore the technology behind wireless charging itself.
Wireless charging, at its core, relies on the principle of electromagnetic induction. This involves the transfer of energy between two objects through an electromagnetic field. A typical wireless charging setup includes a transmitter (the charging pad) that generates an electromagnetic field and a receiver (in the device being charged) that captures energy from that field to charge the battery.
Reverse wireless charging turns the smartphone into the transmitter, allowing its built-in battery to share power with other devices. This feature leverages the smartphone’s ability to generate an electromagnetic field that can be utilized by compatible devices to draw power. It effectively turns the phone into a portable charging station, eliminating the need for carrying multiple chargers or seeking power outlets for small gadgets.
Understanding the Basics
The Science Behind It: Reverse wireless charging works on the principle of electromagnetic induction.
Your phone houses a coil that can function in two ways. First, it acts as a receiver, drawing power from a traditional wireless charger. Second, it can reverse its role, becoming a transmitter and sending out an electromagnetic field.
This field can be picked up by other Qi-compatible devices (the prevailing wireless charging standard), replenishing their batteries.
What It Does: The most convenient use case is topping up smaller accessories like wireless earbuds or smartwatches. If you’ve forgotten their charging cases, your phone can act as an emergency power source.
It’s worth noting that reverse wireless charging isn’t designed to charge other phones to full capacity; it’s more of a “get you out of trouble” solution.
Pros and Cons
Benefits
Convenience: The biggest advantage is the freedom from carrying multiple cables and chargers.
Your phone becomes a portable power hub.
Emergencies: It can be a lifesaver if your earbuds die during a commute or your friend’s phone battery is flat.
Innovation: It shows the increasing sophistication of smartphone technology.
Drawbacks
Battery Drain: Reverse wireless charging uses up your phone’s own battery, potentially shortening its runtime.
Slow Speeds: Don’t expect lightning-fast charging; it’s much slower than traditional wired or wireless charging methods.
Limited Compatibility: Not all devices support Qi wireless charging, restricting the range of things you can power up.
Which Phones Have It?
Reverse wireless charging is usually a feature reserved for premium, flagship smartphones.
Some notable examples include:
Samsung Galaxy Series: Latest Models
Google Pixel Series: Latest Models
Huawei Mate Series: Mate 20 Pro and laterOnePlus Series: OnePlus 8 Pro and later
How to Use It
Check Compatibility: Ensure both your phone and the device you want to charge support Qi wireless charging.
Enable the Feature: Usually found in your phone’s battery settings (may be called “Wireless PowerShare” or similar).
Position the Devices: Place the device you want to charge back-to-back with your phone. The exact placement of the charging coils varies between phones, so you might need to adjust slightly for optimal connection.
Wait and Monitor: Charging will begin automatically.
Keep an eye on your phone’s battery level.
Final Thoughts
Reverse wireless charging reflects the evolving landscape of mobile technology, emphasizing convenience and the seamless integration of devices in our daily lives. While it’s not intended to replace traditional charging methods, it offers a flexible, innovative solution for power sharing and charging on the go. As technology advances, we can expect improvements in efficiency and broader adoption across more devices, making it an increasingly indispensable feature in the ecosystem of mobile gadgets.
Image Credit: Evgeny Opanasenko
Filed Under: Android News, Guides, Mobile Phone News
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