The iPhone 7 series, released in 2016, was a significant upgrade to Apple’s flagship phone lineup. With its water-resistant design, improved cameras, and quad-speaker setup, it was a massive hit among fans and critics alike. However, one feature that was conspicuously absent was wireless charging. Or was it?
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of wireless charging and explore whether the iPhone 7 series supports this convenient feature. We’ll also discuss the benefits of wireless charging, the different types of wireless charging technologies, and what the future holds for this technology.
What is Wireless Charging?
Wireless charging, also known as inductive charging, is a technology that allows you to charge your device without physically connecting it to a power source using cables. It works by transferring electrical energy from a transmitter to a receiver through an electromagnetic field. The transmitter is usually a charging pad or base, while the receiver is built into the device itself.
Wireless charging has several benefits, including:
- Convenience: No more tangled cords or lost charging cables.
- Ease of use: Simply place your device on the charging pad, and it starts charging.
- Reduced wear and tear: Without the constant plugging and unplugging, your device’s charging port is less prone to damage.
Do iPhone 7s Have Wireless Charging?
The short answer is no, iPhone 7s do not have built-in wireless charging capabilities. Apple did not include wireless charging in the iPhone 7 series, much to the disappointment of many fans. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t charge your iPhone 7 wirelessly.
Third-Party Wireless Charging Options
Several third-party manufacturers offer wireless charging cases and adapters that can enable wireless charging on iPhone 7 devices. These cases and adapters contain the necessary receiver coils that can communicate with a wireless charging transmitter.
Some popular options include:
- Mophie Wireless Charging Case: This sleek case supports Qi-compatible charging pads and is specifically designed for iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus.
- Belkin Boost Up Wireless Charging Pad: This charging pad is compatible with iPhone 7 and other Qi-enabled devices, offering fast and efficient charging.
Keep in mind that these third-party solutions may not be as seamless as built-in wireless charging, and the added bulk of a case or adapter may not appeal to everyone.
Why Didn’t Apple Include Wireless Charging in iPhone 7?
There are several reasons why Apple chose not to include wireless charging in the iPhone 7 series:
Technical Limitations
At the time of the iPhone 7’s release, wireless charging technology was still in its early stages. The Qi (pronounced “chee”) wireless charging standard, which is widely used today, was not yet widely adopted. Apple may have been hesitant to invest in a technology that was not yet mature.
Design Constraints
The iPhone 7’s design was focused on water resistance, with a sealed design that made it difficult to incorporate wireless charging technology. Adding wireless charging would have required significant changes to the phone’s internal architecture.
Prioritizing Other Features
Apple may have prioritized other features, such as the dual-camera setup on the iPhone 7 Plus, over wireless charging. With limited resources and a focus on delivering a well-rounded device, wireless charging may have been sacrificed.
Wireless Charging in Future iPhones
Apple finally introduced wireless charging in the iPhone 8 series, released in 2017. The iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X all support Qi-compatible wireless charging. This move marked a significant shift in Apple’s approach to wireless charging, and subsequent iPhone models have continued to support this feature.
Fast Wireless Charging
iPhone 11 and later models also support fast wireless charging, which can charge your device up to 18W. This is significantly faster than the standard 5W wireless charging speed.
As wireless charging technology continues to improve, we can expect to see even faster and more efficient charging speeds in future iPhone models.
Conclusion
While the iPhone 7 series does not have built-in wireless charging, there are third-party solutions available that can enable this feature. Apple’s decision to exclude wireless charging from the iPhone 7 was likely due to technical limitations, design constraints, and prioritizing other features.
However, with the introduction of wireless charging in the iPhone 8 series, Apple has since embraced this technology and continues to improve it with each new iPhone release. As the world moves towards a more wireless future, it’s exciting to think about what the future holds for this convenient and innovative technology.
| iPhone Model | Wireless Charging |
|---|---|
| iPhone 7 | No |
| iPhone 7 Plus | No |
| iPhone 8 | Yes (Qi-compatible) |
| iPhone 8 Plus | Yes (Qi-compatible) |
| iPhone X | Yes (Qi-compatible) |
| iPhone 11 | Yes (Qi-compatible, up to 18W fast charging) |
| iPhone 11 Pro | Yes (Qi-compatible, up to 18W fast charging) |
| iPhone 11 Pro Max | Yes (Qi-compatible, up to 18W fast charging) |
Note: The table above lists the wireless charging capabilities of different iPhone models. Qi-compatible means the device supports the Qi wireless charging standard.
Is Wireless Charging Available on iPhone 7?
No, wireless charging is not available on the iPhone 7. The iPhone 7 was released in 2016 and did not have wireless charging capabilities built-in. Apple first introduced wireless charging on the iPhone 8, which was released in 2017.
However, it is possible to add wireless charging capabilities to an iPhone 7 using a third-party case or adapter that supports Qi wireless charging. These cases and adapters typically contain a Qi-compatible receiver that connects to the iPhone’s Lightning port, allowing it to charge wirelessly.
Will a Wireless Charger Damage My iPhone 7?
No, using a wireless charger with an iPhone 7 will not damage the device. Since the iPhone 7 does not support wireless charging natively, it’s not possible to use a wireless charger directly with the phone. If you try to use a wireless charger with an iPhone 7, it simply won’t work.
However, if you choose to use a third-party case or adapter to add wireless charging capabilities to your iPhone 7, it’s essential to ensure that the case or adapter is compatible with your phone and the wireless charger. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take necessary precautions to avoid any potential damage to your device.
Is Wireless Charging Slow on iPhone?
Wireless charging can be slower than traditional wired charging, especially when it comes to faster charging speeds. However, the speed of wireless charging depends on the specific charger and device being used. For example, the iPhone 8 and later models support faster wireless charging speeds of up to 7.5W, while some other devices may only support slower speeds of 5W.
It’s essential to note that wireless charging speed may also depend on the capacity of the charger and the device’s battery size. For instance, a higher-capacity charger may charge your device faster wirelessly than a lower-capacity one. Additionally, a larger battery may take longer to charge wirelessly than a smaller one.
Can I Use Any Wireless Charger with My iPhone?
Not all wireless chargers are compatible with all devices, including iPhones. When shopping for a wireless charger, it’s crucial to ensure that it supports the Qi wireless charging standard, which is the same standard used by Apple devices.
Additionally, you should check the charger’s power output and compatibility with your specific iPhone model. For example, if you have an iPhone 12, you may want to look for a charger that supports 15W fast wireless charging. Be sure to read reviews and product descriptions carefully to ensure that the charger is compatible with your device and meets your needs.
Is Wireless Charging Safe for My iPhone’s Battery?
Wireless charging is safe for your iPhone’s battery. In fact, wireless charging can be gentler on your battery than traditional wired charging. This is because wireless charging typically uses a more consistent and controlled power output, which can help reduce wear and tear on the battery over time.
However, it’s still essential to follow proper charging practices, such as avoiding extreme temperatures, keeping your device away from water, and updating your iPhone’s software regularly. By taking these precautions, you can help extend the life of your iPhone’s battery and ensure safe and efficient wireless charging.
Can I Charge My iPhone Wirelessly in My Car?
Yes, you can charge your iPhone wirelessly in your car, but you’ll need a compatible wireless car charger and a phone case or adapter that supports wireless charging. There are many wireless car chargers available on the market, including ones that attach to your air vent or dashboard.
When shopping for a wireless car charger, look for one that is specifically designed for your iPhone model and supports the Qi wireless charging standard. Be sure to read reviews and product descriptions carefully to ensure that the charger is safe, efficient, and easy to use while driving.
Will Wireless Charging Replace Traditional Charging?
Wireless charging is becoming increasingly popular, but it’s unlikely to replace traditional charging entirely. While wireless charging offers convenience and ease of use, there are situations where traditional wired charging may be more practical or necessary.
For example, if you need to charge your iPhone quickly, a wired charger may be a better option. Additionally, wired charging is often more cost-effective and widely available than wireless charging. As technology continues to evolve, we may see a shift towards more widespread adoption of wireless charging, but traditional charging will likely remain a viable option for many users.