Wireless Charging: Which Apple Devices are Compatible?

The iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and the iPhone X all come with wireless charging technology built-in, so you’ll be able to charge your new phone without ever having to plug it into a wall. The only problem? Wireless charging isn’t compatible with all Apple devices, including the Apple Watch, which means that if you already own a wireless charger you may not be able to use it to power up your latest and greatest gadget—unless you have one of these Apple products.

All iPhones support wireless charging

This list includes all iPhones released since September 2017. All models support wireless charging, with the exception of the iPhone XR, which has a glass back instead of metal. New models will be updated here as they come out:  iPhone XS Max, iPhone XS, iPhone XR, and iPad Pro (2018) are compatible with Qi-certified chargers. Other devices that work with Qi-certified chargers include the AirPods Wireless Charging Case, AirPods (1st generation), AirPods Wireless Charging Case (2nd generation), and some Beats headphones. It’s worth noting that these products only work with the included Qi-certified charger, not other chargers.

iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X (1st generation) only support Qi-certified chargers that support fast charging. The Samsung Wireless Fast Charge Stand, Seneo Fast Wireless Charger, and Mophie Wireless Charging Base all work with these models. To be compatible with fast charging you need to plug your device into a power adapter that supports USB Power Delivery (USB-PD), then plug your power adapter into a compatible wireless charger. All of these products include their own power adapters. All other devices released before September 2017 don’t support wireless charging at all.

All iPads except iPad Pro models charge wirelessly

All of the iPhones except for the iPhone Pro models support wireless charging. All iPad models except for the 12.9-inch iPad Pro support wireless charging as well. However, not all wireless chargers work with all devices that they come in contact with. This is due to varying electromagnetic frequencies and power standards between countries. Make sure you check before purchasing a charger that it’s made for your specific device so that you can get the most out of your purchase!

Wireless charging is also useful for charging your devices when cables aren’t available or feasible, such as at work or school. A wireless charger for iPad allows you to top up your battery without having to deal with messy wires. Since there’s no need to plug anything in, it keeps you from damaging your iPad’s lightning port and cable in case of accidents as well! You can also be on the go with a wireless iPhone charger, which lets you charge your iPhone wirelessly without having to hold it still or find an outlet. This is great for driving, walking, exercising and any other activity where both hands are required. Before buying a wireless charger that supports these devices, make sure that they actually support them!

All Macs support wireless charging

Apple’s wireless charging pads for the iPhone 8, iPhone X, and AirPods include an Apple Watch Series 3 or later charger. If you have a pre-series 3 Apple Watch, you’ll need to purchase a watchband with integrated wireless charging if you want to be able to charge your Apple Watch wirelessly.

The Qi standard can work with some third-party devices like AirPods and iPhones, but this is not as reliable an option because there is no way to ensure that a third-party charger will always be on top of your device. There’s also a risk of induction (heat buildup) which could create unwanted results. For these reasons, it’s recommended that users avoid wireless charging anything other than their Qi-compatible devices where possible.

All Watches can be charged wirelessly

The Apple Watch Series 3 can be charged wirelessly with a charging puck, inductive mat, or the Qi standard. A charger is included in the box of all watches. The cord can be plugged into the back of the watch or simply set on a pad and it will begin to charge automatically.

The first-generation watch does not have wireless charging capability but can be charged with a magnetically clipped-on charger. If you do not have any of these chargers, you may still be able to purchase one from other vendors like Spigen and Otterbox for about $10 or less.

Additionally, if you have an iPhone 8 or newer and a compatible watch band, you can charge your watch wirelessly. The Apple Watch Edition and Hermes bands have ceramic backs which make them incompatible with wireless charging. Some third-party companies have made accessories to add wireless charging functionality to older models.

Most iPhones Can be charged wirelessly as well: You can purchase a thin, black charging pad which plugs into your wall outlet or comes with some car kits to use in your vehicle. This charger will send a magnetic signal to your phone which will allow it to charge without any cords.

AirPods

As part of last year’s AirPod 2 release, Apple also released a standalone wireless charging case. Strangely, the case is backward compatible; it can also charge the first-generation AirPods. In terms of features, this charger does not have the same features as those on the charging case of the AirPod 2 or AirPod Pro as it is only for charging.

The Apple Watch (Series) 4

Apple Watch Series 4 is the first time the product has been offered with a cellular connection and the first watch that can measure your heart rate continuously. With this device, you’ll be able to leave your phone at home more often because it has cellular capabilities, meaning you can still make and receive calls and texts, plus use email on a watch. With wireless charging (which requires an additional accessory), you’ll never have to worry about where to plug in your Watch. Apple Watch wireless charging is supported by all of the watches: the Apple Watch (1st generation), Apple Watch Series 1, Apple Watch Series 2, Apple Watch Series 3, Apple Watch Series 4, and Apple Watch Series 5.

Why the iPad doesn’t support wireless charging?

The iPad doesn’t support wireless charging because its shell is made of aluminum. Air doesn’t conduct electricity well, so the Air would have to have a metal lining in order to work with a wireless charger. The new iPhone 8 and X models do include this type of induction coil, which is why they work with Qi chargers.

If you want to use a charger with your iPad, you can purchase a USB adapter from Apple. The Wall plug that comes with your iPhone will work to charge iPads at a slower rate than iPhones. You can also charge an iPad through one of those extra Lightning ports by buying an appropriate USB-C-to-Lightning cable. If you have an older model iPad, though, it likely doesn’t support fast charging at all.