The anticipation around Qi2 wireless charging, a new magnetic standard inspired by Apple's MagSafe, has been building for months. Yet, despite its potential to revolutionize how we charge Android phones, adoption remains limited, especially among non-Apple devices.
Surprisingly, Google's latest Pixel 9 series does not support Qi2, and the reasoning behind this decision leaves much to be desired.
(Photo : Daniel Romero from Unsplash)
Many expect that Qi2 wireless charging will be the standard for the upcoming Google Pixel 9 lineup. However, that's not the case since it's not coming soon.
Qi2, finalized earlier this year, promised faster and more efficient wireless charging with speeds up to 15W, along with the convenience of magnetic alignment. This standard not only ensures that charging coils are perfectly positioned for optimal performance but also opens up the possibility for magnetic accessories, similar to what Apple offers with MagSafe. These accessories include tripods, phone grips, stands, and even battery packs, all of which could enhance the Android user experience.
However, despite these advantages, the list of Qi2-compatible devices remains short, with iPhones dominating the lineup. Many had hoped that Google's Pixel 9 would help drive Qi2 adoption in the Android market. Unfortunately, Google decided otherwise, and the explanation provided only raises more eyebrows among users.
Related Article: Google Pixel 9 Event Is Coming: Smaller Pro Variant, AI Integration, and More
When asked about the lack of Qi2 support in the Pixel 9, Google claimed that there were no tangible benefits to adopting the new standard at this time, according to Android Authority.
They argued that Qi1 devices are more readily available and that there's no pressing need to move to Qi2. This reasoning is puzzling, especially considering the clear advantages Qi2 offers, such as faster charging speeds and better alignment, which directly contribute to a more consistent and efficient charging experience.
Moreover, Google's Pixel Stand 2, which supports up to 23W wireless charging for Pixel devices, already shows how committed is the company when it comes to faster wireless charging. The problem is, Google did not think of extending its plan to includ Qi1 and improve the experience across all wireless chargers.
One of Qi2's most appealing features is its compatibility with existing MagSafe accessories, as per GSM Arena.
If Google had adopted Qi2 for the Pixel 9, users could have immediately accessed a wide range of magnetic accessories without waiting for new products to be developed. This would have provided a significant value-add for Pixel users, making their devices more versatile and user-friendly.
While the search engine giant didn't cite cost as a reason for excluding Qi2, it's possible that integrating the new standard could have increased production costs, leading to higher retail prices.
Considering the Pixel 9 series already comes with a higher price tag compared to the Pixel 8, this might have been a concern for Google. However, even this explanation falls short when considering the long-term benefits of adopting a future-proof technology like Qi2.
As it stands, the first Qi2-compatible Android phone has been announced by HMD Global, signaling that the technology is ready for adoption. This makes Google's decision to stick with Qi1 even more perplexing.
If Google missed this opportunity, the responsbility now falls on other Android manufacturers to embrace Qi2 and push the industry forward.
With the Galaxy S25 on the horizon, perhaps Samsung will be the one to finally propel Qi2 into the mainstream. Until then, Android users are left waiting for major phone makers to realize that clinging to outdated technology is not the best strategy in a rapidly evolving market.
Read Also: Samsung Galaxy A35 Spotted for Only $325 on Amazon: What You Need to Know Before Buying
© Copyright 2024 Mobile & Apps, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.most read
related stories
more stories from News
Huawei Mate XT, the newest tri-foldable phone, has an absurd pricing of $2,800. However, Chinese buyers believe it can "out-innovate" Apple's iPhone 16.
ernest hamiltonApple did not expect its AirPods Pro hearing aid feature to pull the stocks of wearable healthcare giants. Just how good is this upgrade really?
ernest hamiltonWith all the noise around iPhone 16, it's tempting to get one especially if you have FOMO. AT&T makes sure you won't be left behind with its new promo.
ernest hamiltonSouth Korean tech giant Samsung has dropped the latest One UI 6.1.1 update for the Galaxy S24 lineup. What new features should you explore soon here?
ernest hamiltonApple has unveiled new iOS 18, iPadOS 18, macOS Sequoia, and watchOS 11 updates for next week. However, Apple Intelligence will still not be a part of it.
ernest hamiltonHere's everything you need to know after Apple announced the most anticipated product we have been waiting for, the iPhone 16. What's special about the new models?
ernest hamiltonOnce rumored to be coming, the new Huawei Mate XT foldable saw a surge in pre-orders in China ahead of the most awaited launch of Apple's iPhone 16.
ernest hamiltonSince most smartphone makers have already AI assistants, Honor is joining the trend with its all-new AI agent poised to rival Siri and other popular AI software.
ernest hamilton