A recent rumor has emerged suggesting that Apple is considering removing the requirement for wireless chargers to be officially approved before enabling 15W wireless charging capabilities for the highly anticipated iPhone 15 series. Since the introduction of MagSafe alongside the iPhone 12 lineup, Apple’s proprietary technology has been capable of delivering up to 15W wireless charging. However, compatibility with Qi chargers has been limited to a maximum output of 7.5W. This alleged change, as hinted by an anonymous leaker “yeux1122,” has sparked considerable interest among tech enthusiasts and industry insiders alike.
Apple has historically insisted on specific criteria for fast charging, mandating the use of its own power adapter or a “comparable third-party USB-C power adapter that supports USB Power Delivery (USB-PD)” to unlock this feature. This stringent requirement ensures optimal charging performance and maintains a consistent user experience. However, if the latest rumors hold true, Apple may be on the verge of altering this policy, potentially ushering in a new era of wireless charging versatility.
According to “yeux1122,” the forthcoming iPhone 15 series is rumored to support unrestricted 15W wireless fast charging, even with non-certified wireless chargers. The leaker conveyed this information through a blog post, accompanied by an undisclosed screenshot featuring Chinese text. Upon translation, the original source appears to indicate that the news originates from the “charging head network,” which likely pertains to the manufacturing supply chain.
Should this rumor materialize, it could be closely tied to the Qi2 standard, which gained attention earlier this year. In January, Apple disclosed that it had shared its MagSafe specifications with the Wireless Power Consortium, serving as a foundation for the forthcoming updated standard. The Qi2 standard aims to enhance wireless charging capabilities, offering improved speeds and efficiency. Apple’s decision to relax its restrictions on fast charging approval may signify its commitment to driving industry-wide advancements and fostering compatibility across a broader range of charging accessories.
Enabling unrestricted 15W wireless charging for the iPhone 15 series has the potential to significantly enhance the user experience. Apple users would no longer feel compelled to rely solely on Apple-approved chargers, expanding their options to a wider array of Qi-compatible devices. This shift could also foster healthy competition among accessory manufacturers, leading to increased innovation and quality improvements in the wireless charging ecosystem.
However, it is important to approach this rumor with a degree of skepticism until further substantiated information becomes available. Apple has a reputation for meticulously curating its ecosystem to deliver a seamless and reliable user experience. While embracing a more open approach to wireless charging would be a departure from its previous strategies, it could signal a strategic move to adapt to evolving industry standards and consumer demands.
