The Wireless Power Consortium (WPC), a collaborative effort of more than 180 companies, is the brand behind the Qi wireless charging standard we've enjoyed on Nokia Lumia Windows Phones since the Lumia 920. Today, the consortium announced a new resonant wireless charging system, which will be demonstrated this week at CES.
According to a press release published today, the new extension will allow further "device placement freedom, multi-device charging and higher efficiency" too boot. The best part about this advancement is that it's completely backwards compatible, meaning you won't have to head to your local store to pick up a new smartphone (unless you wish to take advantage of new features and innovation).
This resonant extension will enable charging with higher efficiency and lower radio frequency interference than typical solutions we have available today. In addition to this, you'll be able to charge multiple devices and at longer distances, all while being compatible with current hardware today (including our beloved Windows Phones).
While wireless charging eliminates the requirement to hunt for the USB charging cable, make sure it's the right way up and then insert the cable into a smartphone, consumers have still had to make sure their devices are sat properly on Qi chargers stations. With this new advancement, there's more room to wiggle and WPC will provide more flexibility when integrating Qi in cars, furniture, chargers and general accessories.
John Perzow, Vice President of Market Development for the Wireless Power Consortium, had the following to add to the announcement:
"Qi is the leading global wireless charging standard because its 190-plus member companies thrive in the WPC’s competitive-and-collaborative environment and are constantly innovating to produce the best wireless charging experience. The WPC has created a standard that ensures safety and compatibility and frees OEMs to differentiate. That’s why Qi is used in more phones, tablets, cars, and products than any other wireless charging solution."
We can't disagree with the above quote, especially when looking at the Windows Phone ecosystem, which is largely dominated by Qi (AT&T is attempting to shake things up with competitor PMA).
Keep an eye out for more details are we cover the remaining days of CES, we'll pop along to the WPC booth to see if we can dig up some juicy bits and pieces for you all.
Source: WPC
