Sony has developed new technology that dramatically shortens the time it takes to charge mobile phones wirelessly.
Sony’s charging device uses 10-15 watts, instead of 5, and can push twice the electricity of today’s wireless chargers. According to Sony, cell phones can reach a full charge in one hour instead of two. Sony’s charging device is based on the Qi standard, which is being finalized by the Wireless Power Consortium. Sony’s semiconductor division developed the technology, reports Nikkei. Another company, called Rohm, has developed similar technology also based on the Qi standard. The improved wireless charging technology is expected to reach consumer-grade devices during the second half of 2014.
The WPC’s Qi standard is just one of three competing standards for wirelessly charging devices. Other standards are being finalized by the Power Matters Alliance and the Alliance for Wireless Power.
