Qi Wireless Charging to Move Towards 50W Standard, Targeting 2028 Launch, WPC in Discussions
The Wireless Power Consortium has started discussions to raise the Qi wireless charging output to 50W, aiming for a 2028 product launch with Xiaomi and others. This would double the current 25W limit for iPhone and Pixel devices.
The Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) has revealed that it is moving forward with discussions to raise the maximum output of the next-generation Qi wireless charging standard to 50W. According to reports from ITHome relayed by 9to5Google, a special meeting was held with participation from several manufacturers, including Xiaomi, to deliberate on the implementation of this new technology. The first products featuring this updated standard are expected to hit the market in 2028.
Apple’s MagSafe, a wireless charging solution with magnetic alignment, has been widely adopted by iPhone users. In the Android ecosystem, Google has incorporated a Qi-compatible MagSafe-like feature in its Pixel series, though its adoption by other manufacturers remains limited. The proposed increase to 50W output could potentially transform this situation.
Current Output Limitations and Challenges
Currently, iPhones and Google Pixel devices support Qi wireless charging with a maximum output of 25W. While this speed is sufficient for everyday charging needs, it may fall short for users who demand rapid charging. On the other hand, wired charging has already surpassed 50W as a standard, with some models in the Chinese market achieving speeds exceeding 100W and even 200W.
If wireless charging output reaches 50W, the gap between wired and wireless charging will narrow significantly. This development would free users from the inconvenience of plugging in charging cables, enabling them to use wireless charging as their primary method rather than a secondary option.
Background of Discussions and Participating
Companies
The WPC’s current initiative reflects the growing demand for advancements in wireless charging technology within the smartphone market. Notably, Chinese manufacturers have achieved remarkably high output levels in wired charging and are now seeking similar advancements in wireless charging. Xiaomi’s participation in the special meeting underscores the keen interest Chinese companies have in this standards revision.
However, implementing 50W wireless charging comes with technical challenges, including heat management, coil efficiency, magnetic alignment precision, and compatibility with thinner device designs. High-output charging generates significant heat, which could accelerate battery degradation and pose safety risks. WPC is expected to set stringent certification standards to address these concerns.
Feasibility of the 2028 Target
According to ITHome’s report, products compliant with the new standard are expected to debut in 2028, approximately two years from now. Considering the standard time required for drafting regulations, certification processes, and product development, this timeline seems reasonable. However, some manufacturers have already developed proprietary high-output wireless charging technologies, which may lead to a scenario where WPC’s standard plays catch-up.
For instance, OnePlus and Xiaomi have already equipped some of their devices with proprietary 50W-class wireless charging technologies. However, these fall outside the Qi standard and have limited compatibility. Standardization by WPC would promote the unification of charging pads and enhance the overall convenience of the ecosystem.
Competition and Coexistence with Wired Charging
Even with the proliferation of high-output wireless charging, the superiority of wired charging will not be entirely diminished. Wired charging offers speeds exceeding 100W or even 200W, making it indispensable for scenarios demanding ultra-fast charging. Additionally, devices like gaming smartphones, which tend to generate significant heat under heavy loads, may still benefit from wired charging due to its better heat dissipation capabilities.
Nonetheless, the general adoption of 50W wireless charging could allow users to handle everything from trickle charging during sleep to quick top-ups during the day without relying on cables. This could fundamentally change how smartphones are used and charged.
Ripple Effects on the Industry
The advancement in wireless charging output will not only impact smartphones but also the accessories market. Charging pad manufacturers will need to develop products compatible with the new standard, and magnetic accessory compatibility will become increasingly important. Google already offers MagSafe-like accessories for Pixel devices, but with support for 50W charging, new design and cooling requirements for charging pads will emerge.
The automotive industry, which is increasingly incorporating wireless charging pads, could also benefit from the adoption of 50W charging. The reduced charging time while on the go would be advantageous for mobility services such as car-sharing and taxis.
Editorial Opinion
In the short term, while the 2028 target may seem distant, the fact that WPC has officially initiated discussions provides clear direction for the wireless charging market. By 2026 or 2027, reference designs for peripherals and smartphones claiming compatibility are likely to emerge. However, resolving the heat management issues associated with 50W charging remains the most critical challenge. Should the certification process face delays, product launches might be pushed back further.
From a long-term perspective, the standardization of 50W wireless charging could lay the groundwork for the portless future of smartphones. As the output advantages of wired charging diminish, manufacturers may prioritize waterproofing and internal space savings, potentially accelerating the move to eliminate charging ports altogether. On the other hand, use cases requiring ultra-fast charging, such as quick top-ups on the go, may still pose challenges for wireless charging. Particularly in the Chinese market, where 100W-class wired charging is increasingly common, devices with such capabilities are likely to continue being sold alongside wireless charging advancements.
The editorial team believes the standardization of magnetic alignment protocols deserves close attention.
References
- Android Police — Published on 2026-06-29
Frequently Asked Questions
- When will products supporting 50W Qi wireless charging be released?
- Products are expected to hit the market in 2028. WPC is working with companies like Xiaomi to finalize the standard, which will take around two years for certification and mass production.
- Will iPhones and Pixels support 50W wireless charging?
- While unconfirmed at this stage, both iPhones and Google Pixel devices adhere to the Qi standard, meaning they could potentially support the new standard in the future. However, this would require additional hardware support on the devices themselves.
- How does the speed of 50W wireless charging compare to wired charging?
- While 50W wireless charging doubles the current 25W limit, wired charging has already reached speeds of 100W or more. Wired charging remains advantageous for quick top-ups, but 50W wireless charging is expected to become sufficient for most practical needs.
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