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The Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) recently gained a new member—Apple Inc.
The WPC is a group of companies from different industries that aims to promote wireless charging. It created Qi [chee], a technology that embodies the group’s idea of wireless power transfer. This technology is a charger pad with coils that produce a magnetic field, allowing the transfer of power or electric current to a mobile device without the use of cords.
Although some companies have been cautious about this technology, Apple Inc. officially joined the WPC in February. This action sparked rumors that the next iPhone will feature the Qi technology. However, the company did not confirm if these rumors are true. Instead, Apple Inc. said in an official statement that it joined the WPC in order to join discussions related to the development of wireless charging technology.
Other companies who are also members of the WPC include LG, Nokia, Sony Corporation, and Samsung Electro-Mechanics. Aside from Apple Inc., the WPC also recently added De’Longhi Group, an Italian appliance company, to its member list.
Wireless charging has become popular because of the numerous benefits it provides. One example is having no need to deal with tangled power cords that can get busted because of regular use. It also allows charging of multiple devices. If a charger pad is large enough, one or two devices that are Qi-capable can be charged simultaneously. Qi technology may also be used in a lot of locations, such as in airports, hotels, and restaurants, to allow quick and convenient charging.