While wireless charging has found its way in a select Samsung devices, the tech is yet to feature on Apple’s iPhones/iPads/iPods. And the reason behind Apple’s inability to put in this tech can largely be attributed to the metal backs of these devices. However, a new Qualcomm tech could bring about a change.
Announced today, the tech is based on Qualcomm’s WiPower and is designed to be compliant with the Rezence standard. It thus becomes the first announced solution to support wireless charging for metal devices, a feat which wasn’t possible as of yet.
Announcing the latest tech, Qualcomm’s GM for Wireless charging Steve Pazol said,
Today, more device manufacturers are choosing to utilize metal alloys in their product designs to provide greater structural support and, of course, aesthetics. QTIs engineering advancement eliminates a major obstacle facing wireless power and opens up the continued adoption of this desirable feature to a much wider range of consumer electronics and use cases.
WiPower operates at a frequency that is more tolerant of metal objects that come within the charge field. Up to now, this meant one could typically have objects such as keys and coins in the charge field and not affect the charging process.
Today, WiPower has added the ability to have the device itself made of metal. This advancement maintains WiPower’s existing ability to charge devices requiring up to 22 watts today, at speeds equal to or faster when compared to other wireless charging technologies.
Based on Near Field Magnetic Resonance technology, Qualcomm’s WiPower tech offers a more convenient, hassle free way for wireless charging, without the need for precise alignment or direct physical contact.
Additionally, the technology enables simultaneous charging of multiple devices with different power requirements while using Bluetooth Smart to minimize hardware requirements.
As for availability, the techniques for designing a device to charge through a metal back cover, as well as the full suite of WiPower reference designs, are available starting today to WiPower licensees.
