Apple’s upcoming iOS 26 update is more than just a routine software release. While it continues the tradition of performance tweaks and security patches, it also introduces a significant hardware-related upgrade: faster wireless charging for the iPhone 16 series. With iOS 26, the iPhone 16 lineup gains support for 25W wireless charging speeds through third-party Qi2-certified chargers, closing the gap between Apple’s proprietary MagSafe accessories and the broader wireless charging ecosystem.
This marks a strategic move by Apple to broaden accessory compatibility and provide iPhone owners with greater flexibility when choosing charging solutions.
The Evolution of iPhone Wireless Charging
Apple first introduced wireless charging to the iPhone lineup with the iPhone 8 and iPhone X in 2017. At that time, speeds were capped at 7.5W on Qi chargers. Fast forward to 2020, and Apple unveiled MagSafe, a proprietary charging system capable of delivering 15W charging speeds, while also ensuring perfect alignment with magnetic accessories.
The iPhone 16 series, launched in September 2024, pushed this limit further, enabling up to 25W charging but initially, this higher speed was restricted to Apple’s MagSafe chargers. Third-party Qi chargers were capped at 15W, even though the hardware was capable of handling more.
That limitation is now being lifted with iOS 26, which unlocks the full capabilities of the Qi2 wireless charging standard.
Summary Table
Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
Software Update |
iOS 26 |
Key Upgrade |
Unlocks Qi2 wireless charging speeds up to 25W |
Supported iPhones |
iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max |
Excluded Model |
iPhone 16e (no Qi2 or MagSafe support) |
Charging Speed |
0-50% in about 30 minutes |
Third-Party Charger Example |
Belkin UltraCharge series (25W Qi2 certified) |
Expected Rollout |
September 2025 |
Future Implication |
iPhone 17 may feature up to 50W MagSafe charging |
Official Apple Source |
Qi2 Standard and Why It Matters
Qi2 is the latest generation of the Wireless Power Consortium’s global charging standard. It introduces improved magnetic alignment similar to Apple’s MagSafe, but within an open standard that works across a variety of devices.
Key benefits of Qi2 include:
-
Higher charging power – up to 25W, compared to the previous 15W cap.
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Universal compatibility – works across different brands and devices.
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Improved efficiency – reduced heat generation during charging.
By enabling Qi2’s full potential through iOS 26, Apple has effectively democratized fast wireless charging for iPhone 16 users, allowing them to enjoy speeds that were previously exclusive to MagSafe accessories.
Supported iPhone Models
With the rollout of iOS 26, the following iPhone models gain 25W Qi2 charging support:
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iPhone 16
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iPhone 16 Plus
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iPhone 16 Pro
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iPhone 16 Pro Max
It is worth noting that the iPhone 16e is excluded from this upgrade. The budget-friendly variant lacks the necessary hardware to support Qi2 or MagSafe charging.
Charging Performance and Speed Gains
Apple’s official figures suggest that with a 25W MagSafe charger, an iPhone 16 can go from 0 to 50 percent battery in around 30 minutes. With iOS 26 extending 25W speeds to Qi2 chargers, users can now achieve the same performance on third-party accessories.
This improvement not only cuts down charging times but also makes third-party solutions more appealing, especially as many of them come at lower price points than Apple’s MagSafe lineup.
Belkin Leads the Way with Qi2 Accessories
Accessory maker Belkin has been quick to embrace the change. The company announced three new Qi2-certified chargers designed to take full advantage of iPhone 16’s upgraded charging capabilities:
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UltraCharge Pro 3-in-1 Magnetic Charging Dock – A premium charging hub priced at around $129.99.
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UltraCharge 3-in-1 Foldable Magnetic Charger – A travel-friendly solution priced at $99.99.
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UltraCharge 2-in-1 Foldable Magnetic Charger – A compact and affordable option priced at $59.99.
All three accessories include a 45W USB-C power adapter and support full 25W Qi2 wireless charging.
Implications for the iPhone 17
This update also sets the stage for Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 series. Industry leaks suggest that while the iPhone 16 benefits from Qi2’s 25W ceiling, the iPhone 17 Pro models could see MagSafe charging speeds increase dramatically, possibly reaching 50W.
If true, Apple would once again maintain a performance advantage with its own accessories while still supporting an open standard for wider compatibility.
iOS 26 Release Timeline
iOS 26 is currently in beta testing, with developers and early adopters putting it through its paces. The final version of the software is expected to roll out in September 2025, likely alongside the official unveiling of the iPhone 17.
This means that iPhone 16 users can expect to access these faster wireless charging speeds within just a few weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Does the iPhone 16e support Qi2 or 25W charging?
A. No. The iPhone 16e does not support Qi2 or MagSafe charging due to hardware limitations.
Q2. Will I need a new power adapter to benefit from 25W Qi2 charging?
A. Yes. A compatible Qi2 charger paired with a high-wattage USB-C adapter (around 30W or more) is required for maximum performance.
Q3. Are there Qi2 chargers available now?
A. Yes. Belkin has already launched a range of Qi2 chargers designed to deliver 25W charging speeds for the iPhone 16 lineup.
Q4. When will iOS 26 be available to all users?
A. The final version of iOS 26 is expected to roll out in September 2025, alongside the launch of the iPhone 17 series.
Q5. Is MagSafe still faster than third-party Qi2 chargers?
A. Currently, MagSafe and Qi2 both max out at 25W for the iPhone 16. However, leaks suggest that the iPhone 17 Pro may push MagSafe speeds up to 50W.
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