What is Qi Standard?

Wireless charging is in the very present especially with Apple launching their own Apple’s AirPower pad in September. But how do these pads work? What is Qi Standard?

What is Qi Standard?

Qi Standard was developed by the Wireless Power Consortium which defines a wireless form of transfer of power using inductive charging over very short distances (less than 0.25 inches). Inductive charging works by passing the charge between a transmitter and receiver coil placed closely together, usually only separated by the outer casings of each respective item. To make a proper connection and successfully pass the charge, the coils must be aligned which makes this type of technology ideal for direct-contact applications (i.e. cell phone and charging pad). Some Qi transmitters are built with a multi-coil system which allows a device to charge on the surface without placing the coils exactly on one another.

There’s also a resonant form of charging that differs slightly from induction. Rather, it builds upon inductive charging but allows for much more room between the two devices. The transmitter is designed to sense and charge existing receivers over much greater distances – up to 1.77 inches, to be exact. This allows for wireless charging to be built into atop table tops or desks. Qi Standard is actually built to perform both induction and resonant charging for more versatile use.

What can Qi power?
Qi is able to power an array of devices, from smartphones to cordless kitchen appliances.

What smart devices are able to charge via Qi Standard?
Apple iPhone: 8, 8 Plus, X
Samsung Galaxy: S9, S9+, Note 8, S8, S8+, S7, S7 Edge, Note 5, S6, S6 Edge
LG: V30, G6
Microsoft Lumia: 1520, 1020, 930, 929, 928, 920

What is the output power of Qi? How much power can Qi provide?
The current version of the Qi specification has version number 1.2.4. and it allows for fast charging as well as the possibility for transmitters to deliver up to 15 Watt power and the option for receivers to obtain up to 15 Watt. The earliest version (v 1.0) supplies 5 Watt power into a Qi phone and the choice of transmitter designs include single coil transmitter, coil array transmitter, and moving coil transmitter.

How does Qi Standard affect tech?
At this time, you may have seen some table tops (at Starbucks) already built with Qi charging pads. You just have to bring your own transmitter. If you’ve got it, it makes a world of difference. Soon enough, we will probably see more and more wireless charging pads, hopefully extending from coffee shops to libraries, restaurants, and other public establishments. Also, implementation of wireless charging in headphones (earcup to counter top, perhaps) which would also be phenomenal. Think about it. No more bundles of twisted charging cables in your purse.

Would you be a fan of more available  wireless pads using the Qi Standard? Let us know in the comments section sown below.