The Qi2 wireless charging standard has been slowly making its way into the market, with one of its key features being the use of magnets. This system, similar to Apple’s MagSafe, helps improve the alignment of devices and ensures better compatibility with accessories.
However, there has been some confusion regarding whether magnets are required for a product to be officially labeled as Qi2. The answer is clear: Yes, Qi2 does require magnets.
The Qi2 standard includes two main profiles: the Magnetic Power Profile (MPP) and the Extended Power Profile (EPP). The MPP, which includes magnets, is what is branded as “Qi2.” This profile is the one that delivers the improved alignment and charging experience that many consumers expect from the Qi2 standard.
On the other hand, the EPP, which does not include magnets, is still considered part of the Qi2 standard but is branded simply as Qi, without the “2” designation. This means that products using the EPP are not considered to be using Qi2, even though they are part of the updated Qi v2.0 standard.
Earlier, some confusion arose when a page on the “Charge with Qi” website suggested that Qi2 could exist without magnets. However, this page was quickly deleted, and the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) reaffirmed that any product using Qi2 must include magnets.
This clarification was made through an official statement, confirming that only devices with the Magnetic Power Profile (MPP) can be branded as Qi2.
Despite the clear requirements, Qi2 adoption has been slow. Currently, only iPhones with MagSafe are certified for Qi2, and the HMD Skyline is the only Android phone that has adopted the standard.
Other major Android devices, such as the OnePlus 13, are skipping Qi2 altogether, while the Galaxy S25 series is expected to include magnetic accessories only through cases, not built-in magnets.
As the Qi2 standard continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how quickly other manufacturers will embrace the full potential of Qi2, particularly with the magnetic charging capabilities it offers.
