The iPhone 7 Plus, released in 2016, was a game-changer in the world of smartphones. With its powerful dual-camera setup, water-resistant design, and iconic design, it quickly became a top-selling device. However, one feature that many users were eagerly awaiting was wireless charging. As technology continues to advance, one question remains: does the iPhone 7 Plus have wireless charging capabilities?
The Rise of Wireless Charging
Wireless charging, also known as inductive charging, has been around for over a century. However, it wasn’t until the early 2010s that the technology started to gain traction in the consumer electronics industry. The concept is simple: a device is placed on a charging pad or surface, and electricity is transferred wirelessly through electromagnetic fields. This eliminates the need for cables and clutter, making it a convenient and tidy way to keep your devices powered up.
In recent years, wireless charging has become a standard feature in many high-end smartphones. Samsung, Google, and OnePlus are just a few manufacturers that have incorporated wireless charging into their flagship devices. But what about Apple?
The iPhone 7 Plus: A Victim of Timing?
When the iPhone 7 Plus was released, wireless charging was still a relatively new technology. While it was gaining popularity, it wasn’t yet widely adopted. Apple, known for its innovative designs and cutting-edge technology, surprisingly opted not to include wireless charging in the iPhone 7 Plus.
This decision was likely due to a combination of factors. Firstly, the technology was still in its infancy, and Apple may have been hesitant to adopt a feature that wasn’t yet proven. Secondly, the company’s focus was on other innovations, such as the new dual-camera setup and water-resistant design.
However, this doesn’t mean that iPhone 7 Plus users are completely out of luck. While the device itself doesn’t support wireless charging, there are workarounds available.
Third-Party Solutions: A Wireless Charging Loophole
While Apple may not have included wireless charging in the iPhone 7 Plus, third-party manufacturers have stepped in to fill the gap. There are numerous wireless charging cases and adapters available that can enable wireless charging capabilities on the iPhone 7 Plus.
One popular option is the Qi-compatible wireless charging case. These cases contain a built-in Qi receiver, which allows the iPhone 7 Plus to communicate with a wireless charging pad. Simply place the phone in the case, and it can be charged wirelessly.
Another option is a wireless charging adapter, which can be attached to the Lightning port of the iPhone 7 Plus. This adapter allows the phone to receive power wirelessly, without the need for a case.
While these solutions are convenient, they do come with some limitations. For example, the wireless charging case may add bulk to the device, and the adapter may not be as aesthetically pleasing as a native wireless charging solution.
Qi: The Wireless Charging Standard
Qi (pronounced “chee”) is an open wireless charging standard developed by the Wireless Power Consortium. It’s the most widely adopted wireless charging standard, with over 100 companies, including Apple, Samsung, and Google, supporting the technology.
Qi uses a resonant inductive coupling method to transfer energy between a transmitter (the charging pad) and a receiver (the device to be charged). This allows for efficient and safe energy transfer, making it a reliable choice for wireless charging.
When shopping for a wireless charging solution for your iPhone 7 Plus, look for products that are Qi-compatible. This ensures that the product meets the standards set by the Wireless Power Consortium and is compatible with a wide range of devices.
Wireless Charging Speeds: Fast, Faster, and Fastest
Wireless charging speeds have increased significantly over the years. Qi-compatible devices can charge at three different speeds:
- Slow Charging (5W): This is the slowest and most basic form of wireless charging. It’s typically used for low-power devices like wearables and headphones.
- Fast Charging (10W): This is the standard speed for most smartphones, including the iPhone 7 Plus. It’s faster than slow charging but still relatively sluggish.
- Fastest Charging (15W): This is the fastest wireless charging speed available, reserved for high-end devices that support it. It can charge a device from 0% to 80% in around 30 minutes.
Keep in mind that the iPhone 7 Plus only supports slow charging speeds, even with a Qi-compatible wireless charging solution.
The Future of Wireless Charging
Wireless charging is becoming increasingly prevalent in modern devices. Apple, which initially lagged behind in adopting the technology, has finally caught up with its recent iPhone models.
The iPhone 11 series, released in 2019, features native wireless charging capabilities. This means that Apple has finally included the necessary hardware and software to support wireless charging out of the box.
This shift towards wireless charging is driven by consumer demand for convenience and ease of use. As the technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even faster charging speeds, improved efficiency, and new applications for wireless charging.
Conclusion: A Wire-Free Future?
While the iPhone 7 Plus may not have native wireless charging capabilities, there are still ways to enable this feature using third-party solutions. Qi-compatible wireless charging cases and adapters can bridge the gap, providing a convenient and clutter-free charging experience.
As wireless charging technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see widespread adoption across various devices and industries. Apple’s decision to finally include wireless charging in its recent iPhone models is a testament to the growing demand for this feature.
In the end, the question of whether the iPhone 7 Plus has wireless charging capabilities is a resounding “almost.” While it may not have been included out of the box, there are still ways to experience the convenience of wireless charging. And as technology continues to advance, we can expect to see a wire-free future where charging our devices is easier, faster, and more convenient than ever.
Is Wireless Charging Safe for My iPhone 7 Plus?
Wireless charging is a safe and reliable technology that has been widely adopted in many consumer electronics devices. The iPhone 7 Plus, in particular, uses a technology called Qi (pronounced “chee”) which is an industry-standard for wireless charging. This technology has been extensively tested and proven to be safe for use with the iPhone 7 Plus. Moreover, Apple has worked closely with the Wireless Power Consortium, the organization responsible for developing the Qi standard, to ensure that the iPhone 7 Plus meets the highest safety standards for wireless charging.
In fact, wireless charging is often considered safer than traditional wired charging because it eliminates the risk of electrical shock or fire hazards associated with faulty or damaged cables. Additionally, wireless charging pads are designed with safety features such as overheat protection and foreign object detection to prevent accidents. So, rest assured that wireless charging is a safe and convenient way to keep your iPhone 7 Plus powered up.
How Fast Does Wireless Charging Work on the iPhone 7 Plus?
Wireless charging on the iPhone 7 Plus is capable of delivering up to 7.5 watts of power, which is relatively fast compared to other wireless charging technologies. In fact, it’s almost as fast as charging your iPhone 7 Plus using a traditional Lightning cable and a USB power adapter. With wireless charging, you can expect to get up to 50% charge in about 30 minutes, which is more than enough to get you through a busy day.
One thing to note is that the speed of wireless charging may vary depending on the type of wireless charging pad you’re using. Some high-end wireless charging pads may be able to deliver up to 10 watts of power, while others may be limited to 5 watts or less. However, even at the slower speeds, wireless charging is still a convenient and reliable way to keep your iPhone 7 Plus powered up.
Can I Use Any Wireless Charging Pad with My iPhone 7 Plus?
While the iPhone 7 Plus supports the Qi wireless charging standard, not all wireless charging pads are created equal. Apple recommends using a Qi-certified wireless charging pad to ensure compatibility and safety. Qi-certified pads have undergone rigorous testing to ensure that they meet the highest standards for safety, efficiency, and performance.
That being said, there are many third-party wireless charging pads available that are compatible with the iPhone 7 Plus. Look for pads that are specifically designed for the iPhone 7 Plus and have good reviews from other users. It’s also a good idea to check the manufacturer’s website for compatibility and certifications to ensure that you’re getting a high-quality product.
Do I Need to Remove My iPhone 7 Plus Case to Use Wireless Charging?
One of the best things about wireless charging is that you don’t need to remove your iPhone 7 Plus case to use it. In fact, many iPhone 7 Plus cases are specifically designed to be compatible with wireless charging. However, it’s worth noting that some cases may interfere with wireless charging, particularly if they’re made of thick or metallic materials.
If you’re concerned about compatibility, look for cases that are specifically marketed as “wireless charging compatible” or “Qi-compatible.” These cases are designed to work seamlessly with wireless charging pads, so you can keep your case on and still enjoy the convenience of wireless charging.
Can I Wirelessly Charge My iPhone 7 Plus on the Go?
While wireless charging pads are great for home or office use, they’re not always convenient for on-the-go charging. Fortunately, there are many portable wireless charging solutions available that allow you to wirelessly charge your iPhone 7 Plus wherever you go.
Portable wireless charging pads are compact, lightweight, and often come with rechargeable batteries, so you can take them with you on the go. Some popular options include battery cases, wireless charging backpacks, and even car mounts with built-in wireless charging. With these solutions, you can keep your iPhone 7 Plus charged up no matter where you are.
Is Wireless Charging More Expensive Than Traditional Charging?
While wireless charging pads may be more expensive than traditional Lightning cables, they offer a level of convenience and flexibility that’s hard to put a price on. With wireless charging, you don’t need to worry about lost or damaged cables, and you can simply place your iPhone 7 Plus on a pad to charge it.
That being said, wireless charging pads can range in price from under $10 to over $100, depending on the features and quality of the pad. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, you can find a basic wireless charging pad for around $20-$30. However, if you’re looking for a high-end pad with advanced features like fast charging or multi-device support, you may need to pay a premium.
Will Wireless Charging Damage My iPhone 7 Plus Battery?
Wireless charging is a safe and reliable technology that won’t damage your iPhone 7 Plus battery. In fact, wireless charging is designed to be gentler on your battery than traditional charging methods. Because wireless charging uses a lower voltage and current than traditional charging, it reduces wear and tear on your battery over time.
Additionally, many wireless charging pads come with advanced features like overcharge protection, which helps to prevent your battery from becoming overcharged or damaged. So, rest assured that wireless charging is a safe and healthy way to keep your iPhone 7 Plus battery powered up and ready to go.