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.

The Current State of Qi2 Wireless Charging Adoption

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.

Google's Justification: A Flawed Argument

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.

The Missed Opportunity for Accessory Compatibility

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.

The Cost Factor: A More Plausible Explanation?

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.

What's Next for Qi2 and Android?

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.