New iPhones Feature Qi-Based Wireless Charging

Apple has finally declared its allegiance in the wireless charging dogfight, and the Cupertino giant has thrown in with Qi, an open, universal charging standard created by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC).

The WPC – which enjoys the support of Apple, Nokia, LG, Samsung, Sony, BlackBerry, and Motorola Mobility, among others – is currently embroiled in a format war with the Power Matters Alliance (PMA), co-founded by Procter & Gamble and Powermat Technologies and supported by AT&T, Duracell, Starbucks, and Flextronics. Representatives from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Energy Star also sit on PMA’s board of directors.

With a cornucopia of consumer behemoths in their corner, Qi already had a massive advantage. The iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus’ compatibility with Qi tips the scales decisively towards the WPC.

Apple recently announced their cash cow’s congruency with Qi wireless charging pads like the mophie wireless charging base and Belkin BOOST↑UP Wireless Charging Pad. And here’s the really exciting news – certain auto manufacturers will place embedded Qi wireless chargers in new models. These auto giants include:

• Audi
• BMW
• Chrysler
• Ford
• Genesis
• Honda
• Hyundai
• Kia
• Mercedes-Benz
• PSA
• Toyota
• Volkswagen
• Volvo

If nothing else (and there’s plenty), the 8 and 8 Plus wireless charging feature means you’ll be able to charge your iPhone and listen to music at the same time – previous iterations (and presumably this version) used the same port for chargers and earbuds.

Stay tuned for more, and check out Apple’s site if you’ve never used a consumer wireless charger or need a brush-up: https://support.apple.com/en-us/ht208078