In the world of smartphones, wireless charging has become a coveted feature. The convenience of simply placing your device on a charging pad to replenish its battery is a luxury many users have grown to appreciate. But, can an iPhone 8 Plus use a wireless charger? In this article, we’ll dive into the world of wireless charging, explore the iPhone 8 Plus’s capabilities, and answer this pressing question.
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 introduction of the Qi (pronounced “chee”) standard in 2009 that wireless charging for consumer devices began to gain traction. Qi is an open standard for wireless power transfer, developed by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC). Today, Qi is the most widely adopted wireless charging standard, supported by hundreds of companies, including Apple.
How Wireless Charging Works
Wireless charging relies on the principle of electromagnetic induction. A coil in the charging base, known as the transmitter, generates an electromagnetic field when an alternating current flows through it. A receiver coil in the device to be charged, such as a phone, detects this field and converts it back into an electrical current, which is then used to charge the device’s battery.
The iPhone 8 Plus and Wireless Charging
Released in 2017, the iPhone 8 Plus was a significant upgrade to Apple’s iPhone lineup. One of the notable features of the iPhone 8 Plus is its glass back, which replaced the aluminum casing of its predecessors. This design change allowed Apple to introduce wireless charging capabilities to the iPhone 8 Plus.
Qi-Compliant Wireless Charging
The iPhone 8 Plus supports Qi-compatible wireless charging, making it compatible with a wide range of wireless charging pads and accessories available on the market. Apple’s own AirPower wireless charging mat, announced in 2018, is also compatible with the iPhone 8 Plus.
Choosing the Right Wireless Charger for Your iPhone 8 Plus
With the iPhone 8 Plus’s wireless charging capabilities, you’ll want to choose a wireless charger that meets your needs. Here are a few factors to consider:
Power Output
When selecting a wireless charger, look for one that outputs at least 5W of power. This is the minimum required to charge an iPhone 8 Plus quickly and efficiently. Some wireless chargers may offer faster charging speeds, up to 10W or more, but these may not be compatible with the iPhone 8 Plus.
Compatibility
As mentioned earlier, the iPhone 8 Plus supports Qi-compatible wireless charging. Make sure the wireless charger you choose is also Qi-compliant to ensure compatibility.
Design and Portability
Consider the design and portability of the wireless charger. Do you need a compact, travel-friendly option or a larger, more stylish charger for your home or office?
| Wireless Charger | Power Output | Qi-Compliance | Design |
|---|---|---|---|
| Belkin Boost Up Wireless Charging Pad | 5W | Yes | Compact, Rubberized Design |
| Anker Wireless Charger | 10W | Yes | Sleek, Modern Design |
Benefits of Wireless Charging for Your iPhone 8 Plus
Wireless charging offers several benefits for iPhone 8 Plus users:
Convenience
Wireless charging eliminates the need to deal with tangled cords and lost charging cables. Simply place your iPhone 8 Plus on a wireless charging pad, and you’re good to go.
Reduced Wear and Tear
By eliminating the need to constantly plug and unplug your iPhone 8 Plus, you reduce the wear and tear on the Lightning port, helping to prolong its lifespan.
Clutter-Free Charging
Wireless charging pads take up minimal space and can be easily integrated into your daily routine, providing a clutter-free charging experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the iPhone 8 Plus is indeed capable of wireless charging, thanks to its Qi-compliant design. When choosing a wireless charger, consider factors such as power output, compatibility, and design. With the right wireless charger, you can enjoy the convenience, reduced wear and tear, and clutter-free charging experience that wireless charging has to offer.
What is wireless charging and how does it work?
Wireless charging is a technology that allows you to charge your device without physically plugging it into a power source. It works by using electromagnetic fields to transfer energy between a transmitter (the charging base) and a receiver (the device to be charged). The transmitter contains a coil that carries an alternating current (AC), which generates a magnetic field. The receiver in the device contains a coil that converts the magnetic field back into an electrical current, which is then used to charge the battery.
In the case of the iPhone 8 Plus, it has a built-in receiver coil that can detect the magnetic field generated by a Qi-compatible charging base. When the iPhone 8 Plus is placed on the charging base, the electromagnetic field induces an electrical current in the receiver coil, which is then used to charge the battery. This eliminates the need for a physical connection between the device and the power source, making it a convenient and clutter-free way to charge your device.
Is wireless charging safe for my iPhone 8 Plus?
Wireless charging is a safe and reliable way to charge your iPhone 8 Plus. The technology has been extensively tested and certified by various organizations, including the Qi Wireless Power Consortium, to ensure that it meets rigorous safety standards. Wireless charging uses low-power electromagnetic fields that are well within safety limits, and it does not pose any health risks to humans or animals.
In addition, wireless charging is designed to prevent overheating, which can be a concern when charging devices. The charging base and the iPhone 8 Plus have built-in safeguards to monitor the charging process and prevent overheating. These safeguards include temperature sensors, voltage regulators, and safety timers that shut off the charging process if the device becomes too hot or if the charging process is interrupted.
Can I use any wireless charging pad with my iPhone 8 Plus?
Not all wireless charging pads are created equal. The iPhone 8 Plus supports the Qi wireless charging standard, which is an industry-standard protocol for wireless charging. To ensure compatibility, look for a charging pad that is Qi-certified and specifically designed for use with the iPhone 8 Plus.
When choosing a wireless charging pad, make sure to check the product description or packaging for compatibility with the iPhone 8 Plus. Some charging pads may be designed for other devices, such as Samsung or Android phones, and may not work with the iPhone 8 Plus. Additionally, some charging pads may not support fast charging, which can affect how quickly your device charges.
How fast does wireless charging work compared to traditional charging?
Wireless charging can be slower than traditional charging, depending on the type of charging pad and the device being charged. The iPhone 8 Plus supports fast wireless charging, which can charge the device at a rate of up to 7.5 watts. This is slower than traditional fast charging, which can charge the device at a rate of up to 18 watts.
However, the convenience and ease of use of wireless charging often outweighs the slower charging speed. With wireless charging, you don’t have to worry about finding a charging cable or dealing with the clutter of cords. Simply place your iPhone 8 Plus on the charging pad and let it charge – it’s that easy.
Can I wirelessly charge my iPhone 8 Plus in a car?
Yes, you can wirelessly charge your iPhone 8 Plus in a car using a wireless charging car mount. These mounts usually come with a built-in Qi-compatible charging coil and a USB port to connect to your car’s power source. They are designed to securely hold your iPhone 8 Plus in place while you drive, allowing you to charge your device on the go.
Wireless charging car mounts are a convenient way to keep your iPhone 8 Plus charged while driving. They are often designed with safety features, such as adjustable arms and grips, to ensure that your device stays in place even on bumpy roads. Look for a car mount that is specifically designed for the iPhone 8 Plus and supports wireless charging.
Is wireless charging more expensive than traditional charging?
Wireless charging pads can be more expensive than traditional charging cables, especially high-quality pads that support fast charging. However, the convenience and ease of use of wireless charging often outweigh the additional cost.
In the long run, wireless charging can also be more cost-effective. With traditional charging cables, you may need to replace them frequently if they become damaged or worn out. Wireless charging pads, on the other hand, are designed to last for a longer period and require minimal maintenance.
Can I wirelessly charge my iPhone 8 Plus with a case on?
It depends on the type of case you have. Some cases, especially thicker ones with metal or other materials, may interfere with wireless charging. However, many cases designed specifically for the iPhone 8 Plus are compatible with wireless charging.
If you plan to use a case with wireless charging, look for a case that is specifically designed for wireless charging and is thin enough not to interfere with the charging process. You can also check the product description or manufacturer’s website to ensure that the case is compatible with wireless charging.