What is Qi2? Explaining the new wireless charging standard
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Qi (pronounced Chee) is the wireless charging standard used by most consumer electronics brands that offer devices with wireless charging support. It was first released in 2008 and is now used by over 700 electronics manufacturers including Apple, Samsung, LC, Huawei, Google, Sony, Xiaomi, and more. Qi standard is developed and maintained by the Wireless Power Consortium. The consortium announced Qi2 in January 2023 and now manufacturers are slowly launching devices with Qi2 support. This detailed blog post will explain the Qi2 wireless charging standard. I will also explain how Qi2 differs from Qi.
What is Qi2?
Qi2 is the next-generation wireless charging standard for smartphones, smartwatches, and their devices. It is the successor to the Qi wireless charging standard and is mainly different in Magnetic Power Profile. This allows wireless chargers to snap on the back of the devices to provide a secure and optimal connection. Qi2 is based on the same idea as Apple’s MagSafe wireless charging. MagSafe wireless charging is also based on Qi, so, users will be able to charge iPhones using Qi compatible chargers.
Qi2’s Magnetic Power Profile provides improved wireless charging. It is also more efficient because energy is not lost in charging. Qi2 will provide faster wireless charging while ensuring the safety of your device. The consortium claims that Qi2 won’t shorten battery life and won’t damage the receiver.
Initially, the Qi2 standard with support 15W charging, but higher power profiles will be added with time.
Qi2 standard will require certification that is slightly different. Qi2-certified devices will bear the standard’s logo to ensure only genuine products are available for consumers. Devices with Qi2 support may refuse to draw power from non-compliant chargers.
When will Qi2 be available?
During IFA 2023, Anker Anker introduced a range of Qi2 devices including power banks and wireless magnetic pads. All these devices support ultra-fast magnetic wireless charging through Qi2. In the coming months, we can expect more brands to launch devices supporting Qi2.
