In January 2023, the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) introduced the Qi2 wireless charging standard, with its official release following in April of the same year. Despite its promise of enhanced charging efficiency and compatibility, the Google Pixel 9 series does not support Qi2, making it an exception among recent smartphone releases.
The Google Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL are equipped with support for the older Qi standard, which offers wireless charging capabilities of up to 23W with Google’s Pixel Stand. However, when using Qi-certified EPP (Extended Power Profile) wireless chargers, these models are limited to a maximum of 12W, compared to the 15W supported by Qi2. The absence of Qi2 also means that Pixel 9 series phones cannot utilize MagSafe-like magnetic accessories, which are compatible with devices supporting the newer Qi2 standard.
In response to inquiries from Android Authority regarding the lack of Qi2 support, Google explained that the older Qi protocol was more widely available and that the benefits of switching to Qi2 were not significant enough to justify the change. The primary advantages of Qi2 include improved charging rates and reduced energy loss, achieved through better alignment between chargers and devices.
While the Pixel 9 series does not feature Qi2, the HMD Skyline stands as the sole Android smartphone currently supporting the new standard. This exclusivity highlights the ongoing evolution of wireless charging technology and suggests that future flagship devices, including those in the Pixel 10 series and other brands, may incorporate Qi2 support. For those interested in the Qi2 capabilities, the HMD Skyline is the only available option on the Android market at present. Detailed reviews of the HMD Skyline, including a video review, provide further insights into its performance and features.
