Qi2 Wireless Charging Is Here: 25W Speed Coming to Phones Soon

The Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) today unveiled the Qi2 standard, raising the maximum wireless charge rate from 15 watts to 25 watts. Device makers including Google and Apple can now integrate the faster protocol into smartphones, tablets and accessories.

The existing Qi specification has capped wireless charging at 15W since its launch in 2022. WPC officials said demand for higher output led to development of the Qi2 upgrade, which will deliver nearly 70 per cent faster power transfer over compatible charging pads.

Google has signaled that its Pixel 10 series, due next month, will be the first lineup to ship with Qi2 support. The company confirmed compatibility tests are complete and certification is underway ahead of the August release.

Apple is expected to enable the new wireless rate on its iPhone 17 family, slated to debut in September. The company relies on WPC standards across its MagSafe accessory range and has regularly updated hardware to match new specifications.

Manufacturers such as OnePlus, Xiaomi and Oppo have already offered proprietary wireless solutions with rates up to 80W, but these are locked to in‑house devices. Industry analysts say Qi2 promises broader interoperability across ecosystems.

Wireless charging sales have lagged behind wired solutions as cable standards have pushed past 100W. Faster wired chargers and next‑generation battery cells have drawn consumer attention, WPC members said. A 25W wireless option could reverse that trend if heat management and pad design keep pace with power increases.

WPC representatives added that bringing Qi2 to market may take several quarters as handset makers, charger brands and accessory developers complete certification. Early Qi2‑branded chargers are slated to appear by year end, with wider availability in 2026.