Google Pixel 9 Series Supports Qi2 Wireless Charging, But With Caveats

In a surprising turn of events, the Google Pixel 9 series has been found to support the latest wireless charging technology, Qi2, despite initial concerns that it was incompatible. According to a report by Android Authority, the Pixel 9 series supports Qi2 wireless charging, but with some caveats.

The Qi2 charging standard, developed by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) and released in 2023, was thought to require a magnetic ring at the back of devices to attach them to a wireless charger. However, tipster Mishaal Rahman suggested that devices can be compatible with Qi2 without this crucial component.

Google has confirmed to Android Authority that its Pixel 9 devices indeed support Qi2 wireless charging standards. However, users who want to utilize magnetic charging will need to purchase a separate case with a magnetic ring attached to its back. It is unclear whether the Pixel 9 supports all of the Qi2 features, given the lack of the magnetic ring.

Additionally, all Qi2 chargers are backwards compatible with Qi-certified devices, leaving more ambiguity regarding the extent to which Google’s flagship handsets support the latest wireless charging technology.

The Google Pixel 9 series, which debuted on August 13, comprises four models: Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. The smartphones were initially thought to be incompatible with Qi2, but it appears that they are compatible after all.

For users who want to take advantage of Qi2 wireless charging, purchasing a separate case with a magnetic ring may be necessary. However, it remains to be seen whether the Pixel 9 series will support all of the features of the Qi2 charging standard.