Android 15 introduces NFC wireless charging: What it means for you

Google’s upcoming Android 15 is gearing up to revolutionize the way we charge our devices by offering new wireless charging capabilities via near field communication (NFC). This innovation aims to extend the convenience of wireless charging to small devices such as trackers, styluses and wireless headphones.

Transition from Qi standard to NFC

Generally, wireless charging has become synonymous with the Qi standard.However, Android 15’s support for NFC wireless charging reportedly offers a new alternative that’s particularly beneficial for space-constrained devices that might struggle to accommodate larger charging coils Android Authority.

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NFC wireless charging: a closer look

The NFC Wireless Charging (WLC) specification launched by the NFC Forum in 2020 paves the way for power transfer through compact antennas. The latest findings in Android 15 Beta 1 reveal Google’s active integration efforts, with specific code referencing “NfcCharging.” Although it’s not yet fully integrated into the Android Open Source Project (AOSP), there are signs that Google is serious about incorporating NFC wireless charging into its ecosystem.

Limitations of NFC wireless charging

While the concept is promising, NFC wireless charging does have its limitations. The technology can only transfer up to 1W of power, which is far less than the slowest Qi chargers available. This limitation does call into question its usefulness for larger devices that require more power.

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Ideal for compact accessories

The true potential of NFC wireless charging becomes apparent when smaller devices are considered. The NFC Forum initially proposed applying the technology to a variety of compact devices, including smartwatches, fitness trackers, wireless earbuds and digital pens. By sidestepping the need for larger charging coils, these devices may become more streamlined and efficient.

What does this mean for Android users?

With native NFC wireless charging support in Android 15, we’re likely to see an influx of innovative accessories tailored to take advantage of the technology. While specific applications and accessory ecosystems have yet to be fully explored, the launch of this feature certainly marks a new frontier for mobile device charging.

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