The iPhone 17 is generating buzz, with rumors pointing toward a significant upgrade to its wireless charging capabilities. Leaks suggest that Apple's next flagship phone could feature 50W wireless charging through a new and improved MagSafe technology, a considerable leap from the current iPhone 16's 25W limit when paired with a 30W charger.
The foundation of this upgrade lies in the anticipated adoption of the Qi2.2 wireless charging standard. This standard, expected to be formally announced by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) soon, promises advancements in power delivery, magnetic alignment, and charging efficiency. These enhancements are poised to play a crucial role in Apple's evolving wireless charging ecosystem.
Regulatory filings have revealed a pair of new MagSafe chargers, identified by model numbers A3502 and A3503, which appear outwardly similar to existing MagSafe chargers but are built to support the next-generation Qi2.2 standard. The primary distinction between the two models is the length of their braided USB-C cables, offering users a choice between 1-meter and 2-meter options.
The Qi2.2 standard could allow the iPhone 17 series to support wireless charging speeds of up to 50W. While the chargers themselves reportedly have a maximum power output of 45W, this is still a substantial increase compared to the 15W limit of current MagSafe options that are compatible with the Qi2 standard.
One of the key improvements expected with Qi2.2 is enhanced magnetic alignment. This should ensure that the iPhone 17 snaps onto the MagSafe charger more securely and efficiently, minimizing power loss and heat generation during charging. The improved efficiency is also a welcome benefit, potentially leading to faster charging times and reduced energy waste.
Importantly, the new MagSafe chargers are expected to be backward compatible with a range of older iPhone models, reportedly from the iPhone 11 onwards. However, it's the iPhone 17 that is expected to fully leverage the new Qi2.2 features, as existing models do not support the standard. While older iPhones will still be able to charge wirelessly with the new chargers, they will likely be limited to their standard charging speeds.
The potential introduction of 50W wireless charging on the iPhone 17 would bring Apple closer to its Android competitors, who have long offered faster wireless charging capabilities. This advancement promises quicker top-ups, enhanced energy efficiency, and an overall improved user experience.
While the prospect of faster wireless charging is exciting, some reports suggest that the iPhone 17 lineup could also see a price increase, potentially due to ongoing US tariff issues. However, the improved MagSafe charging capabilities, coupled with other rumored upgrades, may make the iPhone 17 a compelling option for users seeking the latest in wireless technology. The iPhone 17 is anticipated to debut sometime between September 11-13, 2025.
