Apple recently released iOS 17.4 earlier this month, and the major news surrounding it was its compliance with the new EU Digital Markets Act. However, it seems that wasn’t the only significant update hidden in this release.
The new software has also unlocked support for the Qi2 wireless charging standard. Tests conducted by Macworld show that the iPhone 12 running iOS 17.4 can now wirelessly charge at 15W when connected to a Qi2 charger that is not Apple’s MagSafe.
Previously, wireless charging in this scenario was limited to 7.5W, so the increase to 15W is quite significant. Similar support for the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 was introduced with iOS 17.2 in December, and now the iPhone 12 series can also enjoy this feature.
The Qi2 standard was recently introduced, offering better wireless charging efficiency and magnetic alignment support. Interestingly, Apple is a “steering member” of the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC), which establishes the Qi standards. It’s clear that the Qi2 standard is inspired by Apple’s MagSafe technology.
Now, if you have an iPhone 12 and wish to use a non-MagSafe-certified Qi2 wireless charger, you can charge at 15W, just like with a MagSafe certified one.