Wireless charging has long been convenient, but not always particularly fast. That is about to change. With Qi2 25W, also known as Qi2.2, wireless charging becomes significantly faster and, in many situations, a more realistic alternative to plugging in a cable.
At the same time, a lot of questions come up. What exactly is Qi2? Is it the same as MagSafe? Which iPhone models can charge at 25 watts, and do you need to buy a new charger? Here, we go through everything you need to know, without technical jargon.
What is Qi2 25W?
Qi2 is the latest generation of the international wireless charging standard developed by the Wireless Power Consortium. A major update is that the standard is based on Apple's magnetic technology from MagSafe, which means the phone automatically aligns correctly on the charger.
In the past, many Qi chargers lost efficiency if the phone was placed just a few millimeters off. With magnetic alignment, charging becomes both more stable and more efficient. The new Qi2.2 version also raises the maximum power from 15W to 25W, which is why Qi2 25W has attracted so much attention.
Why Qi2 matters right now
The reason Qi2 25W has suddenly become such a hot topic is iOS 26. Apple is now enabling up to 25W wireless charging through certified Qi2 chargers as well, not just MagSafe.
For users, that means more choice. You are no longer tied to one specific type of charger, but can choose from more products that follow the same standard. At the same time, you still get the magnetic alignment that makes charging both easier and faster.
How much difference does 25 watts make?
The difference is most noticeable when you charge your phone for shorter periods. If you place your phone on the charger while you have lunch or work at your desk, the battery can fill much more than before.
Actual charging time varies depending on the model, battery temperature, and how much the phone is being used at the same time. But compared with older 15W Qi chargers, 25W is a clear step forward and makes wireless charging a more practical option, even for those who want to charge quickly.
Which iPhone models can use Qi2 25W?
Installing iOS 26 alone is not enough. The phone must also support the higher charging power and be charged with a certified Qi2 charger.
In practice, it is the newer iPhone models that can take advantage of the technology. Exact compatibility may vary between models, but Apple has gradually expanded support in the latest generations. To get maximum speed, you also need a sufficiently powerful USB-C power adapter together with the charger.
Qi2 or MagSafe - what is the difference?
It is easy to think that Qi2 and MagSafe are two completely different technologies, but they actually have a lot in common. MagSafe introduced the magnetic ring that keeps the phone perfectly centered on the charger.
When the Wireless Power Consortium developed Qi2, the same basic idea was used as the foundation for the new standard. The result is that more manufacturers can now offer magnetic chargers that work in a similar way, while still following a common standard. For you as a user, that means a wider selection and better compatibility between different products.
What do you need to get 25W?
The most important thing is that the entire chain supports the higher power. If even one part lacks support, charging will happen at a lower speed.
To use Qi2 25W, you need:
- A compatible iPhone with support for 25W wireless charging
- iOS 26 or later
- A certified Qi2 charger
- A sufficiently powerful USB-C power adapter
Qi2 chargers that fit everyday life
For many people, the choice is not just about charging speed, but also about how the charger is used every day. A traveler may want a compact foldable charger that fits in a bag, while someone with a home office may prefer a fixed charging station on the desk.
One example is Twelve South butterFly SE, which is designed for travel and can charge both iPhone and Apple Watch at the same time in a very compact format. For a desk or bedside table, Twelve South HiRise 2 Deluxe is a better fit, offering an elegant solution for several Apple devices at once.
FAQ
What is Qi2 25W?
Qi2 25W is the latest generation of the Qi wireless charging standard. It uses magnetic alignment and can deliver up to 25 watts of charging on compatible devices.
Is Qi2 the same as MagSafe?
No. Qi2 is based on the same magnetic principle as MagSafe, but it is an open standard used by several manufacturers.
Do I need to buy a new charger?
If you want to charge at up to 25W, you need a certified Qi2 charger. Older Qi chargers still work, but at lower power.
Which iPhones support Qi2 25W?
The latest compatible iPhone models together with iOS 26 can take advantage of the higher charging power. Always check Apple's specifications for your exact model.
Is 25W as fast as a cable?
A cable is still the fastest option in many situations, but Qi2 25W narrows the gap significantly and makes wireless charging much more practical in everyday use.
