Key takeaways:
- iOS 17.4 update enables faster 15W wireless charging for iPhone 12 models using non-MagSafe Qi2 chargers
- Previously, non-MagSafe chargers were limited to 7.5W charging speeds for iPhone 12
- iPhone 13 and newer models already received Qi2 charging support with iOS 17.2 update
In a surprising turn of events, Apple’s latest iOS 17.4 update has quietly brought a new feature to the iPhone 12 lineup. Users have discovered that their iPhone 12 models can now charge wirelessly at faster 15W speeds using non-MagSafe Qi2 chargers, a capability previously limited to newer iPhone models.
Prior to this update, non-MagSafe wireless chargers could only provide up to 7.5W charging speeds for the iPhone 12 series, while MagSafe-certified chargers could deliver the full 15W. However, with iOS 17.4, it appears that Apple has unlocked the potential for faster wireless charging on these older devices.
Anker MagGo Qi2 Portable Charger
The Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K) is a reliable, power-packed travel companion with a 10,000mAh capacity that allows you to charge your device while recharging the power bank itself. It is compatible with iPhone 12, 13, 14, and 15 series and can deliver power through magnetic cases.
The Qi2 wireless charging standard, a successor to the widely-adopted Qi standard, offers improved efficiency and incorporates magnetic alignment features inspired by Apple’s MagSafe technology. Apple played a significant role in the development of Qi2, sharing its MagSafe specifications with the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC).
Interestingly, while the iPhone 15 series was the first to officially support Qi2, Apple extended this support to the iPhone 13 and 14 lineups with the release of iOS 17.2. Now, with iOS 17.4, it seems that even iPhone 12 owners can benefit from faster wireless charging without the need for MagSafe-certified accessories.
It’s worth noting that Apple hasn’t officially announced this change in the iOS 17.4 release notes, leaving users to discover the enhanced charging capabilities on their own. Additionally, accessory manufacturers appear to have conflicting information regarding iPhone 12’s compatibility with Qi2 chargers, with some including the device in their compatibility lists while others omit it.
As more users update their iPhone 12 models to iOS 17.4 and test various Qi2 chargers, it will become clearer just how widespread and consistent this faster wireless charging support is. For now, iPhone 12 owners can enjoy the unexpected benefit of speedier wireless charging without the need to upgrade their devices or purchase MagSafe-specific accessories.
FAQ
What is Qi2 wireless charging?
Qi2 is the next generation of the Qi wireless charging standard, incorporating magnetic alignment features similar to Apple’s MagSafe technology. It offers improved efficiency and supports faster charging speeds compared to the original Qi standard.
How fast can the iPhone 12 charge wirelessly with Qi2?
With the iOS 17.4 update, the iPhone 12 can now charge wirelessly at up to 15W using Qi2-certified chargers, matching the speeds offered by MagSafe-certified accessories.
Do I need a MagSafe charger to get faster wireless charging on my iPhone 12?
No, with the iOS 17.4 update, you can use any Qi2-certified wireless charger to achieve faster 15W charging speeds on your iPhone 12, without the need for a MagSafe-specific accessory.
Will my existing wireless charger work with the iPhone 12 at faster speeds?
If your existing wireless charger is Qi2-certified, it should be able to provide faster 15W charging for the iPhone 12 after updating to iOS 17.4. However, if your charger is only compatible with the original Qi standard, it will likely remain limited to 7.5W charging speeds.
Why didn’t Apple officially announce this change?
It’s unclear why Apple chose not to mention the improved wireless charging capabilities for iPhone 12 in the iOS 17.4 release notes. It’s possible that the company is waiting for more widespread testing and confirmation before making an official announcement.
