The recent release of the iOS 17.4 update has brought significant enhancements for iPhone users, including a notable improvement for iPhone 12 owners. The update has secretly increased the wireless charging capability of the iPhone 12, supporting the new Qi2 wireless charging standard that offers faster charging speeds.
15W Wireless Charging with Qi2 Standard on iPhone 12
For those who may be unaware, the iPhone 12 originally allowed for wireless charging at speeds of up to 15W, but this was previously limited to Apple’s own accessories. Third-party chargers were capped at 7.5W. However, the introduction of the Qi2 standard by the Wireless Power Consortium has changed this dynamic. Qi2 is the evolution of the existing Qi standard, inspired by Apple’s MagSafe technology which was first introduced with the iPhone 12 series.
Now, with iOS 17.4 installed, iPhone 12 users can take advantage of full 15W charging speeds by using Qi2-certified chargers, leveling the playing field with Apple’s more recent flagship models. It’s worth noting that this feature enhancement was not strongly highlighted in the update release notes but has been a positive surprise for many users.
Exclusivity of Qi2 Support
The capability for faster wireless charging through Qi2 applies to the iPhone 12 and later models. This is because Qi2 leverages MagSafe technology, which incorporates a series of magnets located behind the phone to securely attach it to accessories and chargers.
Unfortunately, this means that iPhone models prior to the iPhone 12, which lack the MagSafe feature, will not benefit from Qi2’s faster charging capabilities. This update has set a precedent, potentially encouraging Android smartphone manufacturers to consider similar technologies for their devices in the future.
Real-World Implications & Testing
Real-world testing, such as the analysis performed by Macworld, has confirmed that with the iOS 17.4 update, an iPhone 12 can indeed reach the higher 15W charging speeds when paired with a Qi2-certified wireless charger. It is an encouraging development for users who seek quicker charging without having to rely solely on first-party Apple accessories.
Summary
The iOS 17.4 update marks a significant improvement for iPhone 12 users, specifically in the realm of wireless charging. By embracing the Qi2 standard, these devices now benefit from faster charging speeds formerly exclusive to newer models. Users are encouraged to update their devices to take full advantage of these enhancements and enjoy a more efficient wireless charging experience.
