Everything you need to know about wireless phone charging

With more smartphones worldwide than people, technology continues to develop, and convenience has become a key factor in many people’s lives. Daily life may require certain technologies to keep up with the ever-changing society. One such advancement that has gained considerable traction is wireless phone charging, allowing users to charge their smartphones without a cable or plug. This technology, which may seem like something out of a science fiction novel, has become increasingly common in recent years, particularly in the office where flexible workspaces are prioritised.

This guide will explore the nuances of wireless phone charging, explaining how it works, its compatibility with various smartphones, and its growing presence in the workplace .

Click on the relevant link to jump to that section:

• How does wireless phone charging work?
• What is Qi wireless charging?
• Is your smartphone compatible with wireless charging?
• What are the pros and cons of wireless phone charging?
• Wireless phone charging in the workplace
• Frequently asked questions

How does wireless phone charging work?

Wireless charging operates on the principle of electromagnetic induction. The process involves a power transmitting pad and a receiver, usually embedded in the back of the mobile device. Newer smartphones tend to have wireless charging capability built in, while others need a separate adapter or receiver to be compatible.

This process can be broken down into several key components: the wireless charging pad, the induction coils, and the receiver in the device:

• Inside your smartphone is a receiver induction coil made of copper.

• The wireless charging station contains a copper transmitter coil, which generates an electromagnetic field.

• When a device equipped with a receiver coil is placed on the pad, the electromagnetic field induces an electric current in the receiver coil. This current is then converted into direct current (DC) power, which charges the battery. This process is known as electromagnetic induction.

As the copper receiver and transmitter coils are small, wireless charging only works over very short distances.

Obviously, the system isn’t completely wireless, as you still have to plug the charger into the mains or a USB port. However, it does mean you never have to connect a charging cable to your smartphone. For the workplace, this means less desk clutter from charging wires and innovative opportunities to charge devices such as phones, laptops and tablets.

What is QI wireless charging?

Qi (pronounced ‘chee’) wireless charging is the most widely adopted standard for wireless power transfer. Developed by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC), Qi wireless charging ensures interoperability between different devices and chargers. Many smartphone manufacturers, including Apple, Samsung, and Google, among others, use this standard.

Qi wireless charging operates on the same principle of electromagnetic induction but includes several features to ensure safety and efficiency. For instance, Qi chargers and devices communicate with each other to regulate power levels and prevent overheating. This standardisation means that a Qi-compatible phone can be charged on any Qi-certified charging pad, regardless of the brand.

Is your smartphone compatible with wireless charging?

Below is a list of popular smartphone manufacturers with Qi wireless charging built-in that do not require a wireless receiver (last updated June 2024):

If your smartphone is an older model and not listed above, you’ll need a wireless adapter/receiver. You will need to plug a receiver into the Micro USB port of your phone before placing the device on the wireless charging pad.

Providing they support the same wireless charging standard (e.g. Qi), you can use any wireless charger with your smartphone. They don’t need to be made by the same manufacturer—you can use a Samsung wireless charger with an iPhone, for example.

What are the pros and cons of wireless phone charging?

Historically, wireless charging was slower than wired charging due to inefficiencies in the energy transfer. Early versions of wireless chargers typically delivered 5W of power, which was considerably less than the wired counterparts.

However, recent advancements have significantly improved the speed of wireless charging. Many modern wireless chargers now support fast charging technologies, delivering power levels up to 15W or even 30W in some cases. Despite these improvements, high wattage wired chargers, such as those offering 65W or more, still tend to be faster. Therefore, while wireless charging has become much more competitive, wired charging remains the quickest option for those needing rapid recharges.

Wireless charging speeds can increase when phone manufacturers update their operating systems accordingly. But the speed can always be influenced by other factors, including:

• Air temperature
• The phone’s battery level when set to charge
• Where the phone is placed on the charger pad
• The age of the phone and battery

Below are some of the advantages and disadvantages of wireless phone charging to consider:

While wireless charging has become much more competitive, wired charging remains the quickest option for those in need of rapid recharges.

Wireless phone charging in the workplace

The integration of wireless charging in the workplace represents a significant shift towards enhancing employee convenience and productivity. With the increasing reliance on mobile devices for work-related tasks, maintaining battery life throughout the day is crucial. Wireless charging stations can be strategically placed around the office, in meeting rooms, desks, and common areas, allowing employees to charge their devices effortlessly.

Moreover, reducing cable clutter contributes to a cleaner and more organised workspace. This can be particularly beneficial in hot-desking environments or co-working spaces, where employees frequently move between different workstations. Wireless chargers can also be used for other devices, like laptops and tablets.

The adoption of wireless charging in the workplace also reflects broader trends in office design and technology integration. Companies are increasingly investing in smart office solutions that enhance connectivity and collaboration.

Find out more about the future of office design with our original research here.

At CMD, we provide a range of ergonomic and smart office solutions to ensure productivity and employee satisfaction. We stay current with the latest trends and supply office products to meet these demands, including wireless charging in the workplace.

Browse our entire range of workstation power modules here.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a wireless phone charger in the car?

If your car doesn’t already have wireless charging built-in, you simply need to install a wireless charging device inside your vehicle. There’s a wide range of designs and specifications, from the standard flat pads to cradles, mounts, and even chargers designed to fit a cup holder.

Can I charge more than one phone at the same time?

This depends on the charger. Some have two or three pads for multiple devices, but most have just one and can only charge a single phone at a time.

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