Qi2 wireless charging (pronounced “chee-two”) is the new global standard backed by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC). It’s built on the same magnetic technology that powers Apple’s MagSafe. MagSafe charging has been supported on iPhone dating back to the iPhone 12, and it’s with every model since. As long as your phone has iOS 17.4 or later, it supports Qi2 charging. The only Android phone with built-in Qi2 charging to date is the Google Pixel 10 series devices, which incorporate a feature called Pixelsnap that allows you to attach Qi2 chargers (and other accessories) to the back.
Technically, you can also use Qi2 chargers with Android phones from other brands like Samsung and older-model Google Pixel devices, but this requires a compatible case. But these and other brands are expected to adopt Qi2 in the near future. Qi2 is designed to simplify wireless charging across all your devices. You won’t have to worry about proper alignment nor if you’re getting the best charging speed.
In this guide, we’ll break down what is Qi2 wireless charging, how it compares to Qi and MagSafe, and which Qi2 chargers you can buy right now at Best Buy Canada.
What is Qi2 wireless charging?
Qi2 is the official successor to the widely used Qi standard that many wireless chargers today rely on. It takes the universal compatibility of Qi and supercharges it (literally) by adding a Magnetic Power Profile (MPP), a technology borrowed directly from Apple’s MagSafe system. That means Qi2 wireless chargers use magnets to “snap” your phone into the perfect spot every time. The result? Better alignment, faster power transfer, and less wasted energy.
Qi vs Qi2 vs MagSafe: Why upgrade to Qi2 over Q1 charging?
As you can see in the table below, Qi2 and MagSafe are virtually one in the same in terms of the benefits they provide. But when it comes to Qi2 versus Qi, the differences are worth the upgrade.
| Feature | Qi (old standard) | MagSafe | Qi2 (new standard) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max charging speed | 5–10W (varies) | 15W (iPhone) | 15W (phones, standardized) |
| Magnetic alignment | No | Yes | Yes |
| Compatibility | Wide (Apple + Android) | Apple only (iPhone 12 and up) | Wide (Apple + Android, Qi2 compatible phones) |
| Efficiency | Moderate | High | High |
| Future support | Limited | Apple ecosystem only | Universal, WPC-backed |
Max charging speed is higher
Older Qi chargers typically top out between 5W and 10W, which can feel sluggish, especially if you’re in a rush. Apple’s MagSafe technology raised the bar by delivering 15W speeds for iPhones, but only within its own ecosystem. Qi2 brings that same 15W fast wireless charging to both iPhones and future Android devices, giving you a standardized way to get quick, reliable power without brand limitations.
Magnetic alignment simplified
One of the biggest drawbacks of first-generation Qi pads is that they rely on you to place your phone “just right.” Miss the sweet spot, and your phone charges slowly or worse, not at all. MagSafe solved this with built-in magnets that snap the phone into position, and Qi2 carries that forward as a universal feature. With magnetic alignment standard, Qi2 chargers eliminate the guesswork and make charging far more reliable.
Broad compatibility
Qi has always been known for its wide compatibility across Apple and Android phones. But charging speeds and reliability varied depending on the brand. MagSafe, while excellent in performance, was limited exclusively to iPhone 12 and newer models. Qi2 combines the best of both worlds by offering broad compatibility like Qi, but with the magnetic alignment and higher performance once limited to MagSafe. This means a single Qi2 wireless charger can serve a mixed Apple and Android household with ease.
It’s more efficient
Traditional Qi chargers sometimes waste energy due to imperfect alignment, leading to slower speeds and more heat. MagSafe improved efficiency significantly by locking the device in place, ensuring power transfer was consistent. Qi2 applies this same principle universally, meaning you can count on high efficiency no matter the brand of the phone. Less wasted energy also means less heat and a healthier battery over the long run.
Future-proof support with backwards compatibility
The original Qi standard isn’t going anywhere, but it’s unlikely to see major upgrades as the industry shifts focus. MagSafe will continue within Apple’s ecosystem, but its benefits remain limited to iPhones. By contrast, Qi2 ensures widespread adoption across both Apple and Android devices in the coming years.
The takeaway? Qi2 is the unifying standard. It delivers the speed and convenience of MagSafe while keeping the universal compatibility that made Qi popular.
Highlighting the practical benefits of Qi2 wireless chargers
In terms of specs, it’s worth upgrading to a Qi2 wireless charger. But how does this translate to practical benefits? Here’s the big picture.
Faster, more efficient charging: This means less time tethered to a charger and more time using your phone. Whether you’re giving your battery a quick boost before heading out the door or powering up overnight, Qi2 ensures you’re getting faster, more reliable results every time.
Universal device support: Qi2 works across brands, whether you’re charging the latest iPhone or a future Android flagship. That means you no longer have to worry about buying a charger that’s Apple-only or Android-only. You can invest in a single Qi2 wireless charger and count on it to power multiple devices in your household, regardless of brand.
Safer charging with less heat: Less heat from improper placement prevents a slew of issues beyond slow charging, including potential shortening of your phone’s battery life. Your phone also stays cooler while charging and you can enjoy greater peace of mind. That’s ideal for those who rely on their phones all day and don’t want to worry about unnecessary wear and tear.
Future-proof investment: You don’t have to worry about the charger being outdated in a year. Even if your phone and other wireless devices don’t support Qi2 yet, when you upgrade those, your charger will still work. This will save you money in the long run.
Which devices support Qi2?
The rollout of Qi2 is just getting started, but support is growing quickly:
- Apple iPhone 12 series and up: Qi2 support works with the Apple iPhone 12–14 series via iOS 17.4 update, while the iPhone 15 and newer models come with native Qi2 support out of the box.
- Future Android phones: The Google Pixel 10 series launched as Qi2 compatible phones with built-in magnets. The Samsung Galaxy S25 series are technically Qi2-ready which means you can add a case with a mount or ring and they will charge at the faster rate with these accessories.
- Backward compatibility: Got an older Qi-enabled phone? A Qi2 charger will still work with it. It just won’t charge faster than the device allows.
Best Qi2 chargers you can buy today
Ready to make the switch? Best Buy Canada carries a growing lineup of Qi2 wireless chargers from trusted brands. Here are some top picks to consider:
Belkin BoostCharge Pro Qi2 magnetic wireless charger
Belkin has been one of the first accessory makers to embrace Qi2. This slim, reliable charger delivers full 15W speeds and features strong magnetic alignment for both iPhone 15 and future Android devices. It’s a no-fuss option for your desk or nightstand.
Anker MagGo Qi2 wireless charger
Known for affordable, high-quality charging gear, Anker’s MagGo Qi2 series combines compact design with powerful charging. Look for their stand-style chargers if you like to keep your phone upright while charging.
Apple MagSafe charger (Qi2 certified)
Apple’s classic MagSafe puck has been updated with Qi2 certification, making it officially cross-platform. It’s the perfect choice if you’re in the Apple ecosystem but want future-proof support for Qi2 devices.
OtterBox Qi2 wireless charging pad
If durability matters, OtterBox brings its rugged design philosophy to wireless charging. Their Qi2 pad offers a sturdy build and reliable performance—great for busy households.
Google Pixelsnap Qi2 magnetic charger
Charge up to a speedy 25W. While this accessory launched along the Google Pixel 10 series phones and works seamlessly with them, you can use it with any Qi2-compatible device.
Don’t wait for your next phone upgrade
Wireless charging has always been about convenience—but Qi2 takes it to the next level. By combining the universal support of Qi with the magnetic precision of MagSafe, Qi2 wireless charging is faster, safer, and finally consistent across both iPhone and Android devices.
If you’re looking to upgrade, investing in a Qi2 charger today means you’re ready for the latest iPhones, Google Pixel 10 series phones, upcoming Android flagships, and beyond. Whether you’re after a sleek pad, a charging stand, or a rugged all-purpose option, you’ll find the best Qi2 wireless charger at Best Buy Canada.
This article was drafted using AI technology and then reviewed, fact-checked, and revised by a member of our editorial team.
