Samsung Galaxy S25 Series Adopts Qi 2.1 Standard for Magnetic Charging

While the Samsung Galaxy S25 series keeps the exact same battery capacity and wired or wireless charging speeds as its predecessors, it brings support for the latest Qi 2.1 wireless charging standard. This updated version of the Qi standard was unveiled at CES 2025 and is Qi2-ready, which brings several new features. The standard notably permits compatibility for magnetic accessories like cases and charging docks, though it lacks the built-in magnets used by Apple’s MagSafe, which comports wireless chargers on supported iPhones.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Series Supports Qi 2.1 Standard for Magnetic Charging and Improved Efficiency

For Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25+, and Galaxy S25 Ultra, the Qi 2.1 standard brings a magnetic charging feature that through accessories–the devices themselves do not have internal magnets to help align with wireless chargers. This feature was enabled by having these magnetic accessory covers, which are offered by Samsung and third-party brands like Spigen. Qi 2.1 will also introduce what’s called an Automatic Alignment Profile (AAP), which makes sure the charger’s transmitter and the phone’s receiver are optimally aligned for the best energy transfer.

It also fixes problems caused by the bumps of smartphone cameras, which are used to create issues when charging wirelessly. Another major update with Qi 2.1 is a more secure connection to compatible vehicles; although, no such vehicles are on the market just yet. Once released, users will be able to magnetically charge their S25 series phone while in their vehicle, further expanding the capabilities of wireless charging.

In comparison, OnePlus offers a magnetic charging solution for the OnePlus 13, but the phone itself is not Qi-compatible, so the case-based charging solution makes more sense. OnePlus also supports faster 50W wireless charging, which adds to the appeal. Looking ahead, the next iteration of Qi, Qi 2.2, could bring faster wireless charging speeds, especially with contributions from Google, whose technology could influence the future direction of wireless charging. For reference, Google’s Pixel 9 Pro XL offers up to 23W fast wireless charging through its Pixel Stand.

FAQs