The Qi2 standard revolutionizes wireless charging, promising improved efficiency and magnetic alignment.
While Apple’s iPhone 12 and newer models already support this exciting technology, Android users are still waiting for the first Qi2-certified phone.
However, if you own an Android phone and want to get MagSafe or Qi2 charging today, there is a way to do so.
How does wireless charging work?
Before diving into the details of adding MagSafe or Qi2 compatibility to Android devices, it’s essential to understand how wireless charging works.
Wireless chargers use electromagnetic fields to transfer energy. Inside the charger, a coil generates a magnetic field by passing an electric current through it. This field induces a current in your phone’s charging coil, which charges the battery.
MagSafe (and now Qi2) builds on this by incorporating magnets to ensure perfect alignment between the charger coil and the phone coil. This precise alignment minimizes energy loss, enabling faster charging speeds – up to 15 watts with official MagSafe and Qi2 chargers.
How to Add MagSafe and Qi2 to Android Phones
Metal fasteners
Many companies have tried to bridge the gap between Android devices and MagSafe by selling metal accessories. These accessories attach to the back of your phone or phone case, allowing a magnetic connection with MagSafe or Qi2 chargers.
However, most of these metal clips are not fully magnetic. This can disrupt the magnetic field needed for wireless charging, slowing down the charging process, or in some cases preventing it altogether.
Non-magnetic materials, which interfere with energy transfer, can also cause the phone or charger to overheat, which is potentially dangerous.
Magnetic Fasteners
To avoid these issues, Android users should consider using a 100% magnetic attachment for MagSafe and Qi2 compatibility.
The iOttie Magnetic Ring Adapter is a good example of this. Unlike standard metal attachments, the iOttie adapter is made from N52 magnets and designed specifically to eliminate interference with wireless charging.
By being fully magnetic, the adapter ensures that the coils of the charger and phone are aligned, providing fast and consistent charging.
The magnetic construction also prevents overheating issues common with partial metal attachments, protecting your device and charger.
How to install the magnetic adapter
Adding MagSafe and Qi2 compatibility to your Android phone with the magnetic adapter of your choice is simple. Here is a general guide on how to do this:
- Use cleaning wipes to remove dust and debris from the back of your phone or case.
- Place the alignment guide on your phone or case to ensure the magnetic ring is precisely positioned on the wireless charging coil.
- Peel off the adhesive backing and carefully stick the magnetic ring in place. Press firmly to secure it.
- Your phone is now ready to use with any MagSafe or Qi2 charger.
If you want to learn more, check out our article on everything you need to know about Qi2 wireless charging. We’ve also put together a roundup of the best wireless chargers you can buy right now.
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