CES 2025 – Qi2 wireless charging standard finally coming to Android in 2025

Presented at CES 2023 by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC), the Qi2 standard was first popularized by Apple, integrated into theiPhone 12 and the following models. Android users, on the other hand, have had few opportunities to benefit from it, only rare models like the recent HMD Skyline being compatible to date.

The WPC therefore took advantage of the 2025 edition of CES to announce massive adoption of Qi2 on Android this year. Samsung confirmed that its 2025 Galaxy smartphones would feature this technology, without specifying which models would be affected. However, numerous leaks relayed by the German site WinFuture suggest that the Galaxy S25 series will be at the heart of this transition, with compatible cases to maximize user experience.

Samsung and Google on the front line

Samsung came to confirm the rumors: “The exceptional growth of Qi2 will continue in 2025. You can expect to see Android devices supporting Qi2 starting with Samsung Galaxy smartphones as early as this year”assures the South Korean manufacturer.

This adoption comes late, Samsung having until then relied on the classic Qi standard. With Qi2 integration, the Galaxy S25 and other models could offer faster charging speeds and compatibility with magnetic accessories similar to MagSafe.

For its part, Google plays a key role in the development of the Qi 2.2 standard, which incorporates high-power wireless charging technology. Thus, the company “committed to the Qi2 wireless charging standard and increasing the integration of Qi2 into Android smartphones and other devices”.

The Pixel range of smartphones, known for its technological innovation, could also adopt Qi2 this year, further strengthening the Android ecosystem. Hoping for better designed wireless charging on upcoming models than on the recent Pixel 9 Pro Fold.

More advanced technology

Qi2 isn't just about better charging speeds. Here are its main improvements:

• Optimized magnetic charging: Built-in magnets allow perfect alignment for efficient wireless charging, reducing energy loss.
• Increased compatibility: Universal accessories, such as magnetic cases and holders, enrich the user experience, like Apple's MagSafe ecosystem.
• Fast charging: Although the Qi2 standard caps at 15 W, certain technologies, such as those of the Pixel or Galaxy S25, could exceed this limit thanks to specific optimizations.

A bright future for Android users

With the arrival of Qi2 on more Android smartphones, users will finally be able to benefit from a harmonized ecosystem of wireless accessories. Samsung, Google and other manufacturers promise gradual adoption, transforming the third-party accessories market. Brands like Spigen already have plans to launch Qi2 compatible cases, further boosting the appeal of this standard.

While the official launch of the Galaxy S25 series is scheduled for January 22, 2025, details on how Samsung will harness the potential of Qi2 are yet to be clarified. A development that we will not fail to follow very closely.