14 DAY TRIAL // One of the iPhone 8 rumors we’ve heard on several occasions in the last few months indicated Apple was working on wireless charging for its new flagship device, and while no confirmation has been offered by Cupertino, more or less credible sources indicated such a tech is indeed ready for the iPhone.
A report from TNW today corroborates what two sources close to the matter say, with Allen Fung, GM of mobile accessory maker RAVPower, himself confirming that wireless charging is coming to the iPhone 8.
“Our sources tell us the next iPhones have special technology for wireless charging that we have in this charger. Our wireless charger will wirelessly charge the next iPhones at full speed, as well as being able to charge other mobile devices wirelessly,” he was quoted as saying.
Locked down Qi wireless charging
The source claims that it received confirmation from several persons with knowledge of the matter who indicated that wireless charging on the iPhone would work similar to the one of Samsung devices. This means that despite rumors that Apple might be working on a truly innovating wireless charging system that would work across the room, the iPhone 8 will actually charge wireless using a plate.
Furthermore, there are indications that Apple could use the Qi standard, though several tweaks are very likely. The Apple Watch, for instance, indeed uses Qi wireless charging, but Apple locked it down, which means that it cannot be used with standard Qi chargers and this is very likely to be the case with the iPhone 8 as well.
The iPhone 8 will also come with fast charging, a feature that has been around for several years on the top Android devices, including those manufactured by Samsung. It’s not clear how fast this new tech is going to work on the iPhone 8, but since this is a completely new feature for the Apple ecosystem, it’s definitely a welcome addition.
The iPhone 8 is projected to be unveiled in mid-September, probably on September 12, with Apple to begin sending invites to the press as soon as the next week.