Android phones have pioneered various notable standards. They were the first to support 4G, 5G, and USB-C (as early as 2015) and introduced in-screen fingerprint sensors. Regarding wireless charging, the journey began with the Samsung Galaxy S3 in 2012 (although the webOS-powered Palm Pre and its Touchstone charger are considered the true pioneers). However, for supporting the Qi2 wireless charging standard in 2024, Android phone makers seemed to lag behind.
The Qi2 standard was officially announced in early 2023 at CES. The specification, which promises 15-watt wireless charging (and more in future versions), improved safety, and Magnetic Power Profiles for easy alignment and attachment of charging pads, even received an award. Essentially, Qi2 aimed to deliver the same simplicity and user-friendliness iPhone users enjoy with MagSafe products to the Android landscape.
Surprisingly, Apple shared core parts of the MagSafe spec with members of the Wireless Power Consortium (which governs Qi and Qi2 standards) to expedite development. Even observes of the convenience and popularity of MagSafe could expect Android manufacturers to adopt Qi2 rapidly. Yet, the only Android device supporting Qi2 after two years remains the HMD Skyline.
It’s understandable that product development cycles are lengthy and complex, but large manufacturers were aware of Qi2 development. Apple’s MagSafe dates back to the iPhone 12, launched four years ago, giving plenty of time for competitors to catch up.
Moreover, adopting a new standard involves ensuring sufficient compatible peripherals are available. The modular designs of the LG G5 and Moto Z Force line and the palm-reading tech in the LG G8 suffered due to the lack of peripherals. With Qi2 and MagSafe devices being largely interchangeable, options like Anker’s MagGo line of power banks are readily available.
Some phones like the Razr Plus and Pixel 9 Pro Fold can stick magnetically to some Qi2 accessories and receive minimal charge. However, this results from existent magnets rather than intentional support, often leading to accessories not gripping firmly. This inconsistency makes MagSafe-like experiences elusive for Android users. It’s disheartening because minimal adjustments by manufacturers like Google and Moto could broaden Qi2 support without excessive costs.
While Chinese manufacturers like Oppo prefer proprietary technologies like 65-watt AirVOOC wireless charging, Samsung’s early 2024 Galaxy S24 launch and Google’s recent Pixel 9 couldn’t adopt Qi2 despite ample time to integrate such upgrades into current models.
CNET questioned the absence of Qi2 Android phones six months ago, and as we approach year’s end, there’s only one model. Kudos to HMD for managing what others couldn’t. As hopes linger for a more Qi2-inclusive 2025, its potential demise in the Android sector looms, risking being a missed opportunity for technological progress.
