What are the different industry standards for wireless charging?
The primary industry standard for wireless charging is Qi (pronounced “chee”), developed by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC). It has gained widespread adoption and is supported by various electronics manufacturers. Another emerging standard is AirFuel Alliance’s resonant wireless charging technologies, which aim to improve interoperability among different devices and offer greater flexibility in terms of positioning and distance between the charger and device.
Long answer
In the field of wireless charging, the Qi standard developed by the WPC has become the dominant industry standard. It establishes a common interface between chargers and devices using electromagnetic induction technology. Qi-enabled devices can be charged wirelessly simply by placing them on a compatible charger pad or surface. This standard allows for both short-distance charging (usually up to 4 cm) and medium power transfer.
The Qi standard has been widely adopted across various industries, including smartphones, tablets, wearables, and many other consumer electronic devices. Many major electronics manufacturers have incorporated Qi support into their products, making it a de facto industry standard. Furthermore, public places such as airports, cafes, and restaurants increasingly feature Qi-compatible charging pads for convenience.
Another notable industry consortium working on wireless charging standards is the AirFuel Alliance (formerly known as Power Matters Alliance or PMA), which promotes resonant wireless charging technologies. This approach enables more flexible charging ranges and positions between the transmitter (charger) and receiver (device) compared to traditional inductive systems like Qi. With resonant wireless charging, it becomes possible to charge devices even through non-metallic surfaces with higher efficiency.
The AirFuel Alliance aims to enhance interoperability among various devices, irrespective of manufacturer or technology used. Additionally, they focus on delivering flexible solutions that offer power transfer capabilities over longer distances while supporting higher-power applications like laptops and electric vehicles.
While Qi remains dominant in the market today due to its extensive adoption in consumer electronics products, advanced resonant wireless charging technologies supported by the AirFuel Alliance are emerging as an alternative and complementary solution. As the industry continues to evolve, it is possible that more standards and advancements will emerge, further expanding wireless charging capabilities across multiple devices and industries.