Qi2 to be launched by December, initially as a MagSafe alternative for Apple iPhone 15, later for Android smartphones

Qi2 was announced back in January and the new standard is now finally about to enter the market, this time for real, as emphasized by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC). Qi2 is technically very similar to MagSafe, which is by no means a coincidence, as Apple has added MagSafe to the Qi standard to ensure compatibility.

Accordingly, Apple is offering the iPhone 15 and the iPhone 15 Pro as the first smartphones to support Qi2. For iPhone users, this primarily means potentially lower costs for chargers, as Qi2 eliminates the need for Apple's paid MagSafe certification. Qi chargers were previously only able to charge iPhones with a maximum of 7.5 watts, but in the future the maximum possible 15 watts will no longer only be possible with MagSafe, but also with Qi2.

Android smartphones now finally have a real alternative to MagSafe in Qi2, which is also compatible with MagSafe accessories such as power banks that magnetically attach to the back of a smartphone, magnetic wallets or stands. According to the WPC press release, more than 100 devices are currently undergoing Qi2 certification, with the first chargers from Belkin, Mophie, Anker and Aircharge expected to be available by December.

The Magnetic Power Profile (MPP) is optional: 15 watt wireless charging also works in Qi2 with the Extended Power Profile (EPP) without magnets. To make it easier for customers to understand, only devices that support magnetic connections are marketed with a Qi2 logo. Whether devices are actually magnetic or not plays no role in charging compatibility.