Of the many rumors that surfaced last year about the Google Pixel 9, some were completely accurate and others weren’t even close. One leak that, unfortunately, was false was the one that said the new phones would take a big step forward in wireless charging.
The Pixel 9 was rumored to be the first Android phones to have Qi compatible wireless charging 2; but ultimately, all models continue to use the same basic Qi technology that has been with us for 16 years. The new Qi 2 standard became official in January 2023, so there was plenty of time to roll it out to new devices. In fact, the strange thing is that no brand has tried it yet, as if they were waiting for Google to release it.
The Qi 2 standard stands out because it allows for higher wireless charging power than current Qi chargers and mobile phones; all thanks to use of a magnetic systemwhich uses magnets to align the coils of the charger and the mobile phone so that they always remain at the same distance. This allows to increase the power of energy transfer safely, since there is less risk of fire or loss of energy. In other words, it is the MagSafe of the iPhone, but for mobiles of all brands.
The arrival of Qi 2 on Android was so anticipated that Google was forced to defend the decision to continue using the basic Qi. Speaking to Android Authority, the company downplayed the new standard, stating that “There is no tangible benefit to switching to Qi 2”
These are strange words, given that any user who uses a case with MagSafe on their Android mobile can list several advantages. There are already a large number of chargers and other accessories, such as cases or card holders, compatible with MagSafe and by extension, Qi 2, and Android users were finally going to be able to use them without resorting to unofficial third-party products. In addition, Qi 2 allows faster wireless charging
Qi 2 was going to add compatibility with magnetic chargers
Omicron
Finally, Qi 2 is compatible with Qiso the phrase that Qi “is more readily available on the market” makes no sense; we can use a Qi charger with a Qi 2 phone and vice versa without any problem, and make the full jump to Qi 2 whenever we can or want. In short, Google’s explanation leaves a lot to be desired, indicating that the real reasons could be something else (like cost savings).
As it stands, the first Qi 2 compatible Android phone is the HMD Skyline, but without Google’s support, it’s unlikely that other manufacturers will dare to take the plunge and we’ll continue with the usual poor quality wireless charging.
