Since iOS 17.4, you can charge the iPhone 12 (Pro) not only magnetically and wirelessly via MagSafe, but also via Qi2. Like MagSafe, it has a charging power of up to 15 W. The first generation of Qi was limited to 10 W and for iPhone this was even limited to 7.5 W.
In addition, you can also attach the chargers and accessories magnetically with the magnetic ring. However, there are differences between the MagSafe and Qi2 to report, although the end result is the same. We explain how it works.
Qi2: wireless charging standard
Before we list the differences between Qi2 and MagSafe, it is useful to know what the new wireless charging standard exactly entails. Qi2 refers to the second generation of the wireless charging standard for electronic devices. As with the first generation, it uses inductive energy transfer to wirelessly supply power to compatible devices such as iPhone and other smartphones. This was previously 7.5 W or 10 W, but has now been increased to the faster 15 W.
In contrast to the first generation of Qi, Wireless Power Consortium (WPC), the organization behind the wireless protocol, has imposed additional conditions on the second generation. For example, just like with MagSafe, manufacturers must use a sturdy magnetic ring so that devices are magnetically attached to the charger and remain properly positioned.
Differences between MagSafe and Qi2
Qi2 and MagSafe offer the same benefits: wireless fast charging with 15 W and magnetic snapping, so that the device remains properly positioned. It is good to know that the magnetic ring of MagSafe and Qi2 are the same. However, there are two important differences to report: NFC chip and components.
MagSafe also includes a special NFC chip in the accessory so it can communicate with the iPhone. This allows a MagSafe battery to report its status and the iPhone can remember which standby function you used with a MagSafe holder.
In addition, manufacturers must purchase MagSafe components from Apple and the accessory must be approved before they can use the MagSafe logo. On this page from Apple you can check whether a manufacturer and accessory meet the requirements and can use the official mfi (Made For iPhone) logo.
Because both charging methods are the same, it probably makes little difference to consumers which charger they choose. So you can go for a MagSafe solution or Qi2, in both cases you benefit from fast charging and easy positioning. MagSafe does contain an NFC chip for extra information, but that is less interesting. In addition, an additional inspection by Apple is mandatory for manufacturers, which means that the purchase price is higher than Qi2 in most cases.