Exploring Wireless Charging Capabilities: Does the iPhone 7 Plus Make the Cut?

Introduction

Wireless charging has become a popular feature in smartphones, allowing users to charge their devices without the hassle of cables. With the release of the iPhone 7 Plus, Apple introduced wireless charging capabilities for the first time in their flagship device. In this article, we will explore the wireless charging capabilities of the iPhone 7 Plus and determine if it makes the cut.

What is Wireless Charging?

Wireless charging, also known as inductive charging, is a technology that allows devices to charge without the need for physical connections. Instead of plugging a cable into the device, wireless charging uses electromagnetic fields to transfer energy between a charging pad and the device.

How Does Wireless Charging Work?

Wireless charging works through a process called electromagnetic induction. The charging pad, also known as a charging station, contains a coil that generates an electromagnetic field when connected to a power source. The device being charged, in this case, the iPhone 7 Plus, also contains a coil that is designed to receive the electromagnetic field and convert it back into electrical energy to charge the device’s battery.

Wireless Charging Standards

There are several wireless charging standards available in the market, including Qi, Powermat, and AirFuel. The iPhone 7 Plus supports the Qi wireless charging standard, which is the most widely adopted standard in the industry.

Qi Wireless Charging Standard

The Qi wireless charging standard was developed by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) and is supported by a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and wearables. Qi-enabled devices can be charged using any Qi-compatible charging pad or station.

Wireless Charging Accessories for iPhone 7 Plus

When it comes to wireless charging accessories for the iPhone 7 Plus, there are several options available in the market. Apple offers its own wireless charging pad called the “AirPower,” which is designed to charge multiple devices simultaneously. Additionally, there are several third-party wireless charging pads and stations that are compatible with the iPhone 7 Plus.

Benefits of Wireless Charging

Wireless charging offers several benefits for iPhone 7 Plus users. Firstly, it eliminates the need for cables, making it more convenient to charge the device. Users can simply place their iPhone 7 Plus on a charging pad and it will start charging automatically. Secondly, wireless charging is more efficient compared to traditional wired charging methods, resulting in faster charging times. Lastly, wireless charging pads can also serve as a stand for the iPhone 7 Plus, allowing users to easily view notifications or watch videos while the device is charging.

Limitations of Wireless Charging

While wireless charging offers convenience, it also has some limitations. One of the main limitations is the distance between the charging pad and the device. The iPhone 7 Plus needs to be placed directly on the charging pad for it to charge properly. Additionally, wireless charging is generally slower compared to wired charging methods, although this gap is closing with advancements in technology.

Conclusion

The iPhone 7 Plus introduced wireless charging capabilities to Apple’s flagship device lineup. With support for the Qi wireless charging standard and a range of compatible accessories available, the iPhone 7 Plus makes the cut when it comes to wireless charging capabilities. While there are some limitations to wireless charging, the convenience and efficiency it offers make it a compelling feature for iPhone 7 Plus users.

References

1. Wireless Power Consortium. (n.d.). Qi Wireless Charging. Retrieved from https://www.wirelesspowerconsortium.com/technology/qi-wireless-charging
2. Apple. (n.d.). AirPower. Retrieved from https://www.apple.com/airpower

Table: Comparison of Wireless Charging Standards