Last updated: October 2026
Flip over almost any wireless charger and you’ll see a small Qi logo. It’s the reason an iPhone, a Samsung phone and a pair of earbuds can all charge on the same pad. Over the past few years, the standard has evolved quickly, and the version on the box now makes a real difference to charging speed.
Where Did Qi Come From?
Qi was introduced by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC), an industry group whose members include phone makers and accessory brands. Before Qi, wireless chargers often only worked with one brand. Qi created a shared standard so any Qi device could charge on any Qi pad.
How Does Qi Charging Work?
A coil in the charger creates an alternating magnetic field. A matching coil in your phone picks it up and converts it back into electricity to charge the battery. The coils have to be close and aligned, which is why position on the pad matters, and why thick cases can get in the way.
If your phone won’t charge on a pad, alignment and cases are the first things to check; our wireless charger troubleshooting guide and our article on whether a phone case affects wireless charging cover both.
How Do Qi, Qi2 and Qi2.2 Differ?
| Version | Magnets | Typical max speed* | What it means for you |
|---|---|---|---|
| Qi (original) | No | Often 5–15W depending on device | Works widely; placement matters |
| Qi2 | Yes (Magnetic Power Profile) | Up to 15W | Snaps into place, faster and more consistent |
| Qi2.2 | Yes | Up to 25W | Fastest certified wireless charging on supported phones |
*Real speeds depend on the phone, charger, adapter and temperature.
Qi2 was built on Apple’s MagSafe magnet design; our explainer on MagSafe vs Qi2 covers how the two relate.
Which Devices Support Qi Charging?
Most modern smartphones support Qi, including iPhone 8 and later and the majority of flagship and many mid-range Android phones. Many earbuds cases, and some smartwatches, also charge on Qi pads. Qi2 and Qi2.2 support depends on the phone model, so check your phone’s specifications.
Is Qi Charging Slower Than Cable Charging?
Usually, yes. Even Qi2.2 at up to 25W tends to trail the fastest USB-C wired charging, and wireless loses some energy as heat. For a side-by-side look, see wireless vs wired charging, and to understand the heat question, read whether wireless charging damages your battery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you pronounce Qi?
Qi is pronounced “chee,” from the Chinese word for energy flow. The name was chosen by the Wireless Power Consortium for its wireless charging standard.
Do all phones support Qi wireless charging?
Most modern smartphones do, including iPhone 8 and later and many Android phones. Some budget models skip wireless charging, so check your phone’s specifications.
Is Qi2 backward compatible with older Qi phones?
Generally yes. Qi2 chargers can charge older Qi phones, but without magnetic alignment and usually at lower speeds. A magnetic case or ring can help with alignment.
What is the difference between Qi2 and Qi2.2?
Both use magnetic alignment. Qi2 certifies charging up to 15W, while Qi2.2 raises the certified maximum to up to 25W on compatible phones, making wireless charging noticeably faster.
Do I need a special adapter for Qi2 chargers?
Often, yes. To reach full speed, Qi2 and Qi2.2 chargers usually need a USB-C Power Delivery adapter of a specific wattage. Check whether one is included or what wattage the charger recommends.
So, Which Qi Version Should You Buy?
For a recent iPhone or Qi2-ready Android phone, choose Qi2 at minimum, and Qi2.2 if you want the fastest wireless charging available. Older Qi pads still work, just slower and with fussier placement. Our best 3-in-1 wireless charging station guide includes both Qi2 and Qi2.2 picks.