When Apple released the much awaited iPhone X, one of the most remarkable things that caught users’ attention is the wireless charging system. A charging cable is no longer necessary. Now it is not just the iPhones that feature the wireless charging system; every other new model now has or targets using wireless charging system. What exactly is a wireless charging system and how does it operate?
How does wireless charging system work?
The key to wireless charging system is the electromagnetic fields that help to transfer energy from one point (a charging mat) to another point (your smartphone) via electromagnetic induction.
For this system to work, there are two physical coils. One coin helps to convert power (from the wall socket) into an electromagnetic field capable of traveling wirelessly to the target. The second coin is a transformer in the smartphone that helps to convert traveling electromagnetic filed into power for the phone.
While phones designed to use wireless charging system have the coins fitted inside during construction, do not get sad because even others can still use the technology. All you need is getting a wireless charging package that will work for the specific phone. However, ensure take note of the phone voltage limits when picking such wireless charging pads and kits.
Standards used in wireless charging systems
Note that while the wireless charging model might look new, it has been with us for years. In fact, the wireless charging system is also used in other gadgets that require charging.
The wireless charging system for the phones is referred as Qi (pronounce it as chee). The charging system is designed by the Wireless Power Consortium which consolidates members of the top tech companies out there. These include Samsung, Google, and Apple to mention a few.
The other major contender in the wireless charging technology is AirFuel that was established from the partnership of Power Matters Alliance and Alliance for Wireless Power. Like the engineering used in Qi, the AirFuel supports both magnetic resonance and magnetic induction technologies. However, the architecture of the two systems is completely different such that they are not compatible. However, there are some handsets that can support both such as the Galaxy S8 family.
Phones that support wireless charging system
- iPhone 8
- iPhone x
- Samsung Galaxy S8
- Samsung Galaxy S8 Note
- Nokia Lumia 820
- LG G6
Why you should go for a phone with wireless charging system?
The biggest reason for going wireless is convenience. You no longer have to keep around looking for the phone charger. In fact, you can forget about charging the phone because the system will always charge it when you are around. Some companies such as Hotel Starbucks are fitting their facilities with wireless chargers for their clients.
If you buy a phone with the wireless charging system inbuilt in it, there is no risk of plugging the phone into the wrong adapter. You can, therefore, rest assured of smoother charging, longer battery life, and better phone performance.
The final take
While the wireless charging system is relatively slower compared to the conventional method, the convenience associated with it is irresistible. Therefore, do not be left behind when picking a smartphone; go for the model with good wireless charging system.