Qi2 is experiencing a significant speed boost: in future, Qi2 25 W will be supported, increasing wireless charging speed by around 66% compared to the previous 15 W. Apple iPhones and selected Android devices are getting on board – an exciting development for technology and gadget fans.
Highlights
- Qi 2.2.1 increases maximum power to 25 W (plus ~66%)
- iPhone 16 series to receive Qi2 support via software update
- 14 devices already certified, hundreds more in the pipeline
- Android phones such as HMD Skyline and “Qi2 Ready” devices are following suit
Qi2 update: What does it mean for users?
The Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) has officially released the 25 W standard with Qi version 2.2.1. It replaces the previous maximum value of 15 W and enables a noticeably faster charging time. In future, a “Qi2 25W” logo will be displayed on the device and on certified charging pads to indicate fast charging performance.
The current iPhone series in the form of the iPhone 16 (€ 769.00 *) and iPhone 16 Pro (€ 1,019.00 *) will be the first devices to support Qi2 with 25 watts. This is made possible by an update to the new standard. Users of older iPhones will still have to make do with 15 W MagSafe or Qi.
Qi2 update: Android is also getting on board
In addition to Apple, Android is also following suit: Although the HMD Skyline already offered Qi2 support, the WPC now confirms that more Android smartphones will follow – some “Qi2 Ready” models have already been announced. For devices such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 (€ 1,189.00 *), a magnetic Qi2 case will initially be sufficient, but future models will integrate Qi2 natively.
Qi2 update: Why it’s coming now
The revised charging standard is based on the previous MagSafe concept and uses magnetic rings for precise alignment, which improves efficiency and performance. The introduction of Qi2 25 W is accompanied by the following advantages:
- Efficiency gain through magnetic alignment – less energy loss, less heat generation
- Industry consolidation – one charging pad for all brands
- Price pressure on accessories – without expensive license fees as with Apple’s MagSafe
The WPC already lists 14 certified devices and “hundreds” in the queue – the momentum behind Qi2 25 W is high.
Advantages for the practice
There are concrete advantages for smartphone users:
- Faster charging times without tangled cables
- More choice of accessories – budget pads are also an option
- In the long term: standardized, high-performance charging solutions for iOS and Android
However, users should look out for the “Qi2 25W” logo when purchasing in order to get full power. Provided it is compatible, the upgrade protects the battery and saves time.
Conclusion
Qi2 25W marks an important step towards interoperable, fast wireless charging. The WPC’s plans to unify Apple and Android devices could make wireless charging as revolutionary as USB-C with cables. With 25 W of wireless charging power, Qi2 will be a real MagSafe and Quick Charge killer – provided accessory manufacturers get on board and smartphones are compatible. For those interested in technology, it is worth taking a look at Qi2-certified pads – expected to be available from the fall at prices starting at around €40. The update via iOS or Android update will finally bring Qi2 into everyday life.