Wireless charging has become a key feature of modern smartphones, allowing users to charge their devices without the need for a physical cable connection . What should you know about the most popular Qi and MagSafe wireless chargers?
Qi technology
Qi (pronounced "chi") technology is the most widely used wireless charging standard and works on the principle of electromagnetic induction . A device that supports wireless charging contains two special coils – one in the device and the other in the charging station. When the user places the phone or other compatible device on the charging pad, a magnetic field is created between the coils to enable wireless charging . The Qi standard is developed and maintained by the Wireless Power Consortium ( WPC ).
Qi wireless charging safety
Qi wireless charging is considered a safe charging method when used with certified accessories . Modern devices with support for wireless charging have built-in protection mechanisms that monitor temperature, voltage and current during charging. Charging is interrupted when a problem is detected.
The history of Qi wireless charging
The history of Qi wireless charging dates back to 2008, when the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) was founded. The aim was to develop a single standard for wireless charging that would enable compatibility between different devices and charging stations. In 2010, the first Qi standard was released, and two years later, the first phones that supported this standard arrived.
The pioneer among phones supporting Qi technology was the Nokia Lumia 920. It was released on the market in November 2012, followed a month later by another important model, the Google Nexus 4. Then came the Samsung Galaxy S4, Google Nexus 5, and Qi technology gradually became the standard for wireless charging of mobile phones device.
Qi charging speeds
Qi charging speed may vary between models. The first versions of Qi technology (1.0 to 1.1.2.) supported lower power, up to 5W. The third version, Qi 1.3.0., brought dynamic charging, which adapts the power between 5W and 15W according to the needs of the device itself. However, there are exceptions, such as Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro, Oppo Find X3 Pro and OnePlus 9 Pro, which offer even higher charging speeds, from 30W to 67W.
Apple MagSafe
Wireless charging was first used by Apple in 2017 with the iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus models. The Qi standard was subsequently supported by iPhone Xs, iPhone Xs Max and iPhone XR, which were compatible with charging with a power of up to 7.5 W.
Wireless charging does not only apply to phones, but also to accessories such as TWS headphones. The original Apple AirPods model was launched in 2016 with a charging case that was charged using a Lightning cable. In March 2019, the second generation of AirPods came on the market, and with them compatibility with charging pads.
The arrival of MagSafe
In October 2020, in addition to the iPhone 12, Apple introduced its own Magsafe wireless charging technology, which enabled wireless charging and magnetic connection. MagSafe uses a magnetic system inside the phone that allows for a precise and strong connection to charging pads and accessories.
MagSafe is also integrated into accessories such as TPU covers, leather cases, wallets, car mounts, charging stations or selfie sticks. The charging speed with MagSafe can reach up to 15W. Owners of Apple phones can use wireless charging in full force with iPhone 12 models and above.
Made for MagSafe certification
Apple certifies accessories compatible with MagSafe technology through the "Made for MagSafe" (MFM) program. This mark ensures that the accessory meets Apple's strict standards for safety, performance and quality. Applies to accessories such as cases and covers, charging mats and car stations or mounts.
Simplify your daily life with FIXED
Wireless charging is extremely practical and more and more people are using it. In the FIXED menu, you will find a wide range of chargers, stands or holders for home and car use for various smartphone models.
Recommended household products FIXED
SlimPad is a powerful charging pad that you can use for wireless charging on your desk, in the kitchen or on your bedside table. The MagSafe variant is the reliable FIXED MagPad stand.
In our offer you will also find devices combining multiple charging surfaces in one product, such as Powerstation charging stations, which combine a primary charging surface in the form of a stand and a secondary one with less power for another phone or headphones. In the menu, you will find variants of this product suitable for both charging products with wireless charging support and with MagSafe support. For example, the FIXED MagPowerstation Alu is suitable for charging up to three devices and has a built-in charger for the Apple Watch.
A FIXED Powerstation for Samsung can be used for Samsung, or a MagPlate can be stuck on a device that supports wireless charging and MagSafe enabled devices can be used.
Wireless charging on the go
FIXED Roll 2 is a standard holder with a unique rolling system. One level up, you'll find the FIXED Matic, which combines wireless charging and automatic clamping of the phone when inserted. For iPhone users with MagSafe technology, we have a FIXED MagClick product ready.
However, it can be charged wirelessly anywhere, whether you are camping in the Czech countryside or trekking to Machu Picchu. You can take the FIXED MagZen power bank, which combines a wireless charger with MagSafe attachment support, really anywhere.
With the expansion of the Qi and MagSafe standard, this technology is becoming more accessible and has countless advantages. Discover practicality and simplicity, whether you're watching series at home or exploring faraway corners of the world.