Apple is reportedly working on a new version of its long-awaited AirPower product, but the technology behind the device will be “less ambitious” than the original canceled charge pad.
Bloomberg has reported that Apple is actively working on its own branded charging pad set for release this year, though the wireless charger might now only work for iPhones. Apple had previously announced the AirPower back in 2017 alongside the iPhone X, but it was then delayed and subsequently canceled in 2019, leaving technology fans disappointed.
Earlier in the year, reliable insider Ming-Chi Kuo revealed that Apple was working on a new wireless charging pad for iPhone users, and though Kuo had reported that the device would come in the first half of 2019, the coronavirus pandemic undoubtedly caused some delays.
One of the reasons why AirPower was so universally praised because it had a design that allowed users to charge their iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch simultaneously. It’s likely that the next-generation AirPower won’t offer this functionality, as Apple struggled with its charging coils to allow for charging across all devices, leading to dangerous overheating.
Speaking of the new product launch, Bloomberg said: “More than a year after AirPower’s demise, Apple is developing a less ambitious wireless charger for the iPhone. But while the Silicon Valley giant works on that product, Aira Inc., a startup based in Chandler, Arizona, this week is rolling out a technology called FreePower that aims to deliver on the original promise of AirPower, and works for devices from different manufacturers, including those from Google and Samsung Electronics Co. — not just Apple.”
Indeed, for those looking for an alternative to the AirPower, Nomad Base Station Pro is certainly an option worth considering. However, the device does not support Apple Watch.
Would you be here for an Apple-branded charger that only worked for your iPhone and AirPods? Let us know your thoughts and check back soon for more news and rumors.