Qi2 is ready, but which will be the first Android phone to support it?

As CES 2024 begins this week, let’s look back at one of the most significant announcements from last year. In January, they introduced the new Qi2 standard, which supports MagSafe as a universal standard. However, there hasn’t been much information about Qi2 support in new Android phones. The question remains: which Android phone will be the first to support Qi2?

The Qi2 standard represents a notable enhancement in wireless charging, prioritizing ease of use and increased efficiency over speed. The essence of this technology lies in its convenience, and Qi2 takes a step further in refining the user experience. Apple, having utilized a ring of magnets in its iPhones for several years, has rebranded the technology as “Qi2,” moving away from the familiar “MagSafe” nomenclature. While the concept has made its way to Android through cases and accessories, challenges persist.

Officially approved a few months ago, Qi2 has paved the way for a new wave of accessories now making their way to retail stores. The groundbreaking integration of Qi2 is exemplified by the Apple iPhone 15 series, marking the first set of smartphones to incorporate this innovative standard seamlessly. Apple has extended Qi2 support to older iPhones that originally featured MagSafe.

However, the Android landscape is yet to witness the adoption of Qi2 in smartphones. This is unsurprising, considering the recent officialization of the standard. Rapidly integrating Qi2 into a new phone, even with the desire to align with the new standard, poses significant challenges. The absence of Qi2 support during the launch of the OnePlus 12 further reinforces this observation. The upcoming Samsung Galaxy S24 series presents another opportunity, but realistic expectations suggest Qi2 might not make its way into these devices, especially given the many leaks circulating in recent weeks.

The burning question remains: which Android phone will be the trailblazer for Qi2 adoption? Predicting this is no easy task, and there’s a possibility that no new devices will embrace the standard this year. However, the undeniable success of Apple’s MagSafe ecosystem serves as a compelling incentive for Android manufacturers to diligently work on Qi2 support.

Among the potential candidates, the Google Pixel 9 series stands out as the most likely choice. There’s already some evidence supporting this speculation, and Google’s October release window provides an opportune time for Qi2 integration. While Samsung’s next batch of Galaxy foldables could also align with this timeline, the inherent complexity of foldable devices may pose challenges for a last-minute integration of a new standard. Motorola’s flagship Edge, having launched in spring 2023, is likely to follow a similar timeline this year, potentially making it too soon for Qi2 support. The Asus Zenfone series, with a summer launch window, might offer sufficient time for integration, assuming a new Zenfone is in the pipeline. On the contrary, OnePlus’s historical approach to wireless charging raises doubts about a swift adoption of Qi2, making expectations for a OnePlus Open sequel uncertain.

While LG, a once-prominent player in the smartphone market, might have been a strong contender for Qi2 adoption, the company’s abrupt exit from the industry changes the dynamics.

Realistically, 2024 may not be the breakout year for MagSafe on Android. Qi2 is undoubtedly on the horizon, but the absence of concrete information about its inclusion in upcoming smartphones suggests a longer wait. For those eager to upgrade solely for the new standard, exercising patience is advised. Nevertheless, the mere fact that Qi2 integration is underway adds an element of excitement, and the eventual wait is expected to be well worth the technological leap it brings to the world of wireless charging.

What is Qi2?

Qi2 represents a significant evolution in wireless charging standards, shifting its focus from speed to enhanced ease of use and efficiency. Originally featured in Apple’s iPhones under the name MagSafe, Qi2 now takes on a broader role by offering a universal approach to wireless charging that extends beyond the iOS ecosystem. Adopting Qi2 as a standard implies a more seamless and efficient charging experience for users, emphasizing convenience and practicality. As a successor to MagSafe, Qi2 aims to set a new benchmark for wireless charging across various devices, promising a user-friendly and universally compatible solution for the evolving tech landscape. This upgraded standard reflects a commitment to improving wireless charging experience and fostering interoperability among different platforms and devices.

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