Qualcomm's new WiPower technology now allows wireless charging for devices with metal exteriors, a feature that the mobile chip maker giant claims to be a first in the market.
According to Qualcomm, the solution, which is compliant to the Rezence standard, is designed to charge devices through a metal back cover. The techniques for this and the full suite of WiPower reference designs will be provided to WiPower licensees.
Based on Near Field Magnetic Resonance technology, WiPower operates at a frequency that is more tolerant of metal objects that come within the charge field, allowing a wide range of compatible consumer-electronic and handset devices to charge without the need for precise alignment or direct physical contact. This advancement maintains WiPower’s existing ability to charge devices requiring up to 22 watts, at speeds equal to or faster when compared to other wireless charging technologies, said Qualcomm.
Steve Pazol, General Manager, Wireless Charging, Qualcomm Incorporated
Building a wireless charging solution into devices with metal exteriors is a significant step for moving the entire industry forward. Today, more device manufacturers are choosing to utilize metal alloys in their product designs to provide greater structural support and, of course, aesthetics. QTIs engineering advancement eliminates a major obstacle facing wireless power and opens up the continued adoption of this desirable feature to a much wider range of consumer electronics and use cases.
