In the era of wireless charging, many Apple enthusiasts wonder if the iPad Pro can wirelessly charge. The short answer is, yes, but there’s a catch. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of wireless charging, explore the iPad Pro’s charging capabilities, and provide a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of this convenient feature.
The Rise of Wireless Charging
Wireless charging has become a staple in modern technology, offering a convenient and hassle-free way to keep our devices powered up. The advent of Qi-compatible devices has made it possible to charge our phones, tablets, and even watches without the need for pesky cables. Apple, too, has joined the wireless charging bandwagon, integrating this feature into their latest iPhone models.
What is Wireless Charging?
Wireless charging, also known as inductive charging, is a method of transferring energy between two devices using an electromagnetic field. This technology relies on a transmitter (the charging base) and a receiver (the device to be charged), which communicate to facilitate the flow of energy.
How Does Wireless Charging Work?
Wireless charging works by creating an electromagnetic field between the transmitter and receiver. When a Qi-compatible device is placed on the charging base, the transmitter coil in the base generates an alternating magnetic field. This field induces an electromotive force (EMF) in the receiver coil within the device, which then converts the EMF into electrical energy. This energy is then used to charge the device’s battery.
iPad Pro and Wireless Charging
Now that we’ve covered the basics of wireless charging, let’s focus on the iPad Pro. Unfortunately, the iPad Pro does not support wireless charging out of the box. Apple has not integrated Qi-compatible wireless charging into the iPad Pro, unlike the iPhone 8 and later models.
Why Doesn’t iPad Pro Support Wireless Charging?
There are a few reasons why Apple might not have included wireless charging in the iPad Pro:
- Size and design constraints: The iPad Pro’s larger size and thinner design might make it more challenging to incorporate Qi-compatible charging technology. The device’s internal components, such as the battery and logic board, take up more space, leaving less room for the necessary wireless charging components.
- Power requirements: The iPad Pro’s more powerful processor and larger battery require more energy to charge. Wireless charging technology might not be able to provide the necessary power to quickly charge the device, leading to slower charging times.
Workarounds for Wireless Charging on iPad Pro
Although the iPad Pro doesn’t support wireless charging natively, there are some workarounds to help you enjoy this convenient feature:
Qi-Capable Cases and Adapters
Several third-party manufacturers offer Qi-capable cases and adapters specifically designed for the iPad Pro. These cases and adapters contain the necessary wireless charging components, allowing you to charge your iPad Pro wirelessly. Some popular options include:
- Logitech Wireless Charging Case: This case provides a sleek and compact design, allowing for wireless charging and protection for your iPad Pro.
- Belkin Boost Up Wireless Charging Pad: This adapter attaches to the back of your iPad Pro, providing Qi-compatible wireless charging capabilities.
Qi-Wireless Charging Hubs
Another option is to use a Qi-wireless charging hub that can charge your iPad Pro and other devices simultaneously. These hubs often feature multiple charging pads, allowing you to charge multiple devices at once. Some popular options include:
- Anker PowerWave 7.5 Pad: This charging hub features two Qi-compatible charging pads, allowing you to charge your iPad Pro and another device simultaneously.
- Samsung Wireless Charger Duo: This charging hub features two charging pads and supports fast wireless charging for compatible devices.
Pros and Cons of Wireless Charging on iPad Pro
When considering wireless charging for your iPad Pro, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons:
Pros:
- Convenience: Wireless charging eliminates the need to deal with tangled cables or misplaced charging adapters.
- Ease of use: Simply place your iPad Pro on the charging pad or adapter, and it will begin charging.
- Reduced wear and tear: Without the constant plugging and unplugging, your device’s charging port and cable will experience less wear and tear.
Cons:
- Speed: Wireless charging is generally slower than traditional wired charging.
- Compatibility issues: Some Qi-compatible devices might not work with certain charging pads or adapters.
- Cost: Wireless charging cases, adapters, and hubs can be more expensive than traditional charging solutions.
Conclusion
While the iPad Pro does not support wireless charging out of the box, there are workarounds available to help you enjoy this convenient feature. By using Qi-capable cases, adapters, or wireless charging hubs, you can charge your iPad Pro wirelessly. However, it’s essential to consider the pros and cons of wireless charging, including speed, compatibility, and cost. As technology continues to evolve, we might see Apple integrate wireless charging into future iPad Pro models. Until then, these workarounds provide a suitable solution for those seeking the convenience of wireless charging.
| Device | Wireless Charging Capability |
|---|---|
| iPad Pro | No (native support) |
| iPhone 8 and later | Yes (native support) |
- Logitech Wireless Charging Case for iPad Pro
- Anker PowerWave 7.5 Pad
Can iPad Pro wirelessly charge?
The iPad Pro does not support wireless charging out of the box. Apple has not integrated wireless charging capabilities into any of its iPad Pro models, including the latest ones. This means you cannot simply place your iPad Pro on a wireless charging pad and expect it to start charging.
However, there are some workarounds and third-party accessories that can enable wireless charging on your iPad Pro. For instance, you can use a wireless charging case or a USB-C wireless charging adapter that can convert your iPad Pro’s USB-C port into a wireless charging receiver.
Why doesn’t iPad Pro support wireless charging?
One reason Apple may not have included wireless charging in the iPad Pro is due to the device’s size and power requirements. The iPad Pro has a larger battery than the iPhone, which means it requires more power to charge. Wireless charging technology currently available may not be able to deliver the necessary power to quickly charge the iPad Pro.
Additionally, Apple may be saving wireless charging as a feature for future iPad Pro models or waiting for the technology to improve before implementing it. This is purely speculative, and only Apple knows the real reason behind the omission of wireless charging in the iPad Pro.
Can I use a wireless charging pad with my iPad Pro?
Unfortunately, no, you cannot use a standard wireless charging pad with your iPad Pro. As mentioned earlier, the iPad Pro does not support wireless charging out of the box. Placing your iPad Pro on a wireless charging pad will not charge the device.
However, you can use a wireless charging pad with a compatible wireless charging case or adapter for the iPad Pro. These cases and adapters have built-in wireless charging receivers that can communicate with the wireless charging pad and charge your iPad Pro.
What are the alternatives to wireless charging for iPad Pro?
If you don’t want to use a wireless charging case or adapter, you can always stick to traditional wired charging using the USB-C charging cable and power adapter that come with your iPad Pro. This is the most reliable and efficient way to charge your device.
You can also consider using a fast-charging USB-C power adapter or a power bank with USB-C output to charge your iPad Pro on the go. These options can charge your device quickly and efficiently, even if you’re away from a power outlet.
Will future iPad Pro models support wireless charging?
There’s no official word from Apple on whether future iPad Pro models will support wireless charging. However, considering the trend of wireless charging adoption in newer devices, it’s possible that Apple may include this feature in future iPad Pro models.
If Apple does decide to add wireless charging to future iPad Pro models, it will likely be using the widely adopted Qi wireless charging standard. This would make it compatible with a wide range of wireless charging pads and accessories available in the market.
How long does it take to charge an iPad Pro using a wireless charging case?
The charging speed of an iPad Pro using a wireless charging case depends on the specific case and the wireless charging pad being used. Generally, wireless charging cases for the iPad Pro can charge the device at a slower rate than traditional wired charging.
On average, it may take around 4-5 hours to fully charge an iPad Pro using a wireless charging case, depending on the capacity of the battery and the power output of the wireless charging pad. This is slower than the 2-3 hours it takes to charge the device using a fast-charging USB-C power adapter.
Are wireless charging cases for iPad Pro worth it?
Whether or not a wireless charging case is worth it for your iPad Pro depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you value convenience and don’t mind slower charging speeds, a wireless charging case can be a great addition to your iPad Pro accessory collection.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more efficient and fast way to charge your device, you may want to stick with traditional wired charging or explore other fast-charging options. Ultimately, the decision to use a wireless charging case for your iPad Pro comes down to your personal preferences and charging habits.