iPhone XI and second-gen iPhone XR to feature new batteries for device-to-device wireless charging
Apple’s range of next-generation iPhone models will all feature larger batteries to allow for device-to-device two-way charging, according to leading industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo who shared within a research note sent to investors today.
Kuo claims Apple will follow in the footsteps of Samsung’s 2019 Galaxy smartphones by allowing two-way wireless charging, bilateral charging, which allows users to rest a Qi-based device or accessory on top of their phone and transfer power from one device to another.
The update would mean a user could wirelessly charge their second-generation AirPods on the go by transferring power from their iPhone to the new Wireless Charging Case by resting them on the back of the iPhone, or by powering a second iPhone using the same method. – The update would mean your iPhone essentially becomes a wireless charging mat.
According to Kuo, suppliers such as Compeq (will supply battery boards) and STMicro (will supply two-way wireless charging controller) will massively benefit from the 2019 iPhone models, with the battery boards included in the next-generation devices expected to increase in size, as will battery pack capacity.
We expect the new 2H19 iPhone models will support two-way wireless charging. Though the iPhone is not the first high-end smartphone to be equipped with two-way wireless charging, this new function could make it more convenient for users to charge the new AirPods and create a better integrated user experience of the iPhone and AirPods.
The early report suggests battery capacities for the 6.5-inch iPhone XS Max successor could increase by 10 to 15 percent, while the battery capacity of the 5.8-inch OLED iPhone XS successor could grow by 20 to 25 percent. Kuo claims the successor to the iPhone XR will gain two-way charging support, but the battery will hardly increase in size.