Android users have watched Apple’s MagSafe technology take center stage for a while. With Qi2, the Wireless Power Consortium attempted to bring wireless charging to everyone. This was exciting, especially when the Google Pixel 10 finally included magnets for better charging. Unfortunately, many users quickly noticed a major flaw.
Imagine placing your brand-new Pixel 10 on an older wireless charger, expecting a quick power-up. Instead, you wake up to see only a 34% charge. This isn’t because something is broken; it’s by design. The Pixel 10 is picky about its charging speed, often defaulting to a slower standard.
Why the Pixel 10 Charges Slowly
The Wireless Power Consortium established three power delivery tiers for wireless charging. Here’s a quick look:
- Basic Power Profile (BPP): 5W, for older devices.
- Extended Power Profile (EPP): 10W to 15W, for mid-tier devices.
- Magnetic Power Profile (MPP): 15W to 25W, for newer devices like the Pixel 10 and Qi2.
Ideally, your Pixel 10 should charge at around 12 to 15 watts when using an EPP charger. However, it sometimes falls back to the BPP speed of 5W instead, especially when it can’t negotiate properly. With larger battery capacities today, this slow speed is like trying to fill a pool with a kitchen sink. It’s frustrating.
Impact on Older Models
The charging issues aren’t limited to the Pixel 10. Users of previous models, like the Pixel 9, also feel the pinch. Though many invested in Qi2-certified chargers, the compatibility isn’t as straightforward. The Pixel 9 relies on the older EPP protocol. When it’s paired with a Qi2 charger, it also defaults to the slower BPP speed. This leads to a frustrating experience for those hoping to streamline their charging setup with newer gear.
Problems in the Car
Charging isn’t just a problem at home. In-car wireless charging is a challenge as well. Many vehicles now come with integrated wireless chargers, but these often rely on older standards. When a Pixel 10 is placed on a charging pad in a car, it too defaults to 5W. With features like Android Auto, navigation, and music streaming running, the phone ends up draining more power than it’s receiving.
The Cost of Upgrading
Google’s rollout of Qi2 promised a seamless upgrade, but the reality is costly. To fully benefit from Qi2, you might need to invest in new chargers, cases, and pads, with total expenses exceeding $100. Current chargers that used to provide faster charging now operate at half the speed, or worse.
Environmental Concerns
The irony is stark. While smartphone brands often highlight environmental efforts, the introduction of Qi2 has led to millions of existing chargers becoming outdated. This raises concerns about e-waste, as perfectly functional devices are turned into unnecessary waste simply because they don’t meet the new standards.
Conclusion
Ultimately, while the Pixel 10 boasts impressive features, its wireless charging experience has left many frustrated. Google’s failure to consider the needs of everyday users is evident. Whether you drive a 2023 vehicle or have a specific charging setup, the experience leaves a lot to be desired.
