We are no longer talking of wireless charging as a future stuff; it is here with us. All that you require is a charging mat beneath your handset. But of course the technology is yet to be rolled out for all the smartphones, for instance, iPhones don’t have wireless charging. However, there are a number of big names that are worth checking.
Wireless charging: What you should know
Two companies are in a tough contest to be the big wig in the wireless charging industry.
The Qi standard that most Android devices use to wirelessly charge is backed by Wireless Power Consortium (WPC). The technology works by taking advantage of magnetic induction, allowing power to be transferred from a mat to a phone’s battery. Qi (pronounced as “chee”) was established in 2008 and handles 206 companies. Some of the big names under its wings are Sony, Microsoft and Samsung.
Power Matters Alliance (PMA) and the Alliance for Wireless Power (A4WP) merged in January 2015 to compete against Qi directly. Similar to Qi standard, the PMA technology makes use of magnetic induction.
Here is a list of the top smartphones with wireless charging technology.
Samsung Galaxy S6
This device seems to have an edge when it comes to wireless charging technology. The phone can use both the Qi and PMA wireless charging technology. Considering its speedy performance, 16-megapixel camera and elegant design, this smartphone proves a worthy competitor in the market. Its edge lights up with a light-blue hue while charging and turns green when fully charged.
Sony Xperia Z3
Sony has also gotten into the wireless-charging trend with the Sony Xperia Z3. Despite its $390 price tag on Amazon when unlocked, the waterproof phone lasts more than 12 hours on a charge; offers great-sounding speakers; and sports a sharp, bright screen. You’ll need the $114.99 Sony Wireless Charging Cover (WCR14) to charge on a plate, though.
Google Nexus 6
This device supports the Qi wireless charging technology, saving the costs of purchasing an extra cover. The price is quite high, about$499 on Amazon but you will love its top notch operating system. Although the Nexus-specific wireless charger is no longer available for purchase, you can use any Qi wireless charger to juice it up.
Samsung Galaxy Note Edge
The phone supports both the PMA and Qi wireless charging technology. Its design is also a major selling factor.
Samsung Galaxy Note 4
Its $199 price is worth it because of the multitasking features, a fast and sharp camera, and a pen you will actually want to use.