Google unveiled the Pixel 10 series with a groundbreaking addition: Qi2 wireless charging support. This new feature incorporates built-in magnets similar to Apple's MagSafe technology, but it comes at a cost – the removal of a beloved capability. The Pixel 10 phones no longer support reverse wireless charging, known as "Battery Share," in favor of the Qi2 magnetic wireless charging. This decision has sparked discussions among tech enthusiasts.
Before the Pixel 9, the Battery Share feature was automatically enabled when the Pixel was connected to a power source. However, Google eliminated this feature with the Pixel 9 and completely removed reverse wireless charging from the Pixel 10.
In an interesting turn of events, the Pixel 9 specs included the Battery Share functionality, while the Pixel 10 specifications page makes no mention of it. This shift has left users pondering whether the trade-off for Qi2 support was worthwhile.
Exploring the technical aspects, the integration of Qi2 magnets in the Pixel 10 presents a physical impediment to reverse wireless charging. This development aligns with the trend observed in iPhone 17 models, which also lack reverse wireless charging. While the HMD Skyline, another Android device with Qi2 compatibility, supports 5W reverse wireless charging, Google might be utilizing a newer Qi2 standard (Qi 2.1.1) that poses limitations on this feature.
Looking ahead, the possibility of combining reverse wireless charging and Qi2 technology in future iterations of Pixel and iPhone devices remains an intriguing prospect.
