With the new Qi2 standard, you can expect shorter charging times and longer battery life when charging devices wirelessly. Samsung and Google will be the first to work with the improved standard for wireless charging.
If there’s one thing every phone user agrees on, it’s that charging your phone can never be fast enough. Google and Samsung clearly agree with this. The two companies are now joining forces to get this new technology into your hands faster. Samsung is starting with its Galaxy line, the first models of which will already have the new charging standard this year. The Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) announced this in a press release.
After iPhone 15, wait for Android camp
In the fall of 2023, the iPhone 15s were the first phones with Qi2 support, but since then we have had to wait for the major Android manufacturers. So far, the HMD Skyline is the only Android smartphone with Qi2, but according to the latest reports, this will soon change.
Samsung is taking the lead, but Google will also follow quite quickly. Although not yet officially confirmed, future Pixel phones are also expected to come equipped with the latest version of Qi, given Google’s involvement in the development of the charging standard.
Galaxy S25
While no specific models have been mentioned, the Galaxy S25 is rumored to support the new Qi2 standard – possibly via a case. However, it could also be that the technology is installed directly. The Galaxy S25 series, which will be announced later this month, is expected to play an important role in the introduction of Qi2. The question remains whether these devices directly support the new charging standard, or whether this will be done via so-called ‘Qi2 Ready’ accessories as a kind of intermediate stage.
Google Pixel
Currently, Google only supports version 2 of Qi for its Pixel phones when paired with a suitable Pixel Stand holder. The company is playing an active role behind the scenes in the development of Qi version 2.2, which enables faster charging speeds.
Google has also shared the technology with WPC and other manufacturers to make these faster speeds more widely available. “Google is committed to the Qi2 standard and wants to increase the integration of Qi2 into Android devices.”
Use in cars
In addition to smartphones, other applications of Qi2 are also expected in 2025, such as movable ‘charging zones’ for use in cars, an innovation that is part of the Qi 2.1 standard.
In addition, ‘Qi2 Ready’ certified accessories have been announced, such as cases that work with approved devices to deliver the full Qi2 experience. This is in fact a hybrid solution that allows compatibility via accessories and should ultimately ensure wider use.
Samsung Unpacked
It remains to be seen what exactly Samsung will do with Qi 2. The South Korean manufacturer will unveil the new S25 line, consisting of the S25, S25+ and S25 Ultra, during an Unpacked event on January 22. Then we will find out whether these phones will support the new charging standard fully integrated.
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Source: www.bright.nl
