Samsung Explores Qi2 Magnets in Future Smartphones

Samsung Considers Qi2 Magnetic Charging for Future Smartphones

Samsung is reportedly surveying users about the potential inclusion of built-in magnets in their upcoming smartphones to fully support Qi2 wireless charging. This move could bring Samsung devices in line with Apple’s MagSafe technology, offering a more convenient and efficient wireless charging experience. The survey, discovered on the Samsung Members app, explores user opinions on potential design changes, including a slight increase in phone thickness.

User Opinions on Thickness and Convenience

The Samsung survey delves into crucial aspects of user preferences. It directly asks whether the inclusion of Qi2 charging support, akin to Apple’s MagSafe, would reduce inconvenience for users who primarily rely on wireless charging. The survey also gauges user sentiment towards a potential increase in smartphone thickness to accommodate the necessary magnets.

Users are presented with various options, allowing them to express their preference for or against magnets, regardless of the thickness increase. Furthermore, the survey explores specific thickness increments, asking users if they would accept a phone that is 0.3mm or 0.5mm thicker due to the inclusion of magnets.

Qi2: The New Wireless Charging Standard

Qi2 represents the next generation of wireless charging technology, promising faster charging speeds and improved efficiency. It builds upon the existing Qi standard but incorporates a magnetic alignment feature, similar to Apple’s MagSafe. This magnetic alignment ensures optimal positioning between the charging pad and the device, minimizing energy loss and maximizing charging speed.

Extended Power Profile (EPP) and Magnetic Power Profile (MPP)

To fully support Qi2 wireless charging, manufacturers must implement two key profiles:

• Extended Power Profile (EPP): Enables faster wireless charging speeds.
• Magnetic Power Profile (MPP): Utilizes magnets for precise alignment and efficient charging, mirroring the capabilities of MagSafe.

The Current State of Qi2 Adoption

While Apple introduced magnetic wireless charging with the iPhone 12 in 2020, Android manufacturers have been relatively slow to adopt the Qi2 standard. Currently, only a handful of Android devices, such as the HMD Skyline and the Samsung Galaxy S25 series, support Qi2. However, only the HMD Skyline is equipped with magnets.

Potential Implications for Future Samsung Devices

Samsung’s survey suggests that the company is seriously considering integrating magnetic wireless charging into its future smartphones. This could mean that the successors to the Samsung Galaxy S25 series—such as the Galaxy S26—might arrive with native Qi2 support, including built-in magnets. Alternatively, Samsung could continue to offer optional magnetic charging cases, as they do with current models.

Benefits of Qi2 Magnetic Charging

• Improved Charging Efficiency: Magnetic alignment ensures optimal positioning, minimizing energy loss and maximizing charging speed.
• Enhanced User Experience: The magnetic connection provides a secure and reliable charging experience.
• Compatibility with MagSafe Accessories: Qi2 compatibility allows users to utilize a wide range of MagSafe accessories, such as wallets and stands.

Potential Drawbacks

• Increased Device Thickness: The inclusion of magnets could lead to a slight increase in smartphone thickness, which may be a concern for some users.
• Potential for Interference: Magnets could potentially interfere with other electronic components within the device, although this is unlikely with proper engineering.

Samsung’s exploration of Qi2 magnetic charging signals a potential shift towards a more convenient and efficient wireless charging experience for its users. The ultimate decision will likely depend on user feedback and the company’s overall design priorities.