Google explains why the Pixel 9 doesn’t support Qi2 charging, but we’re not convinced
The Google Pixel 9 is impressive in many ways – it has 12GB of RAM (as much as the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra), offers new Gemini AI tools that look very cool, and the display is vibrant. However, it fails in one area: wireless charging – as it lacks the new Qi2 charging standard, instead using last-generation Qi.
What is Qi2 charging? It’s a third-party wireless charging standard that offers faster wireless charging than Qi and also supports MagSafe technology and accessories due to the magnets used. Proprietary wireless chargers can reach higher speeds – Qi2 maxes out at 15W – but these standards ensure the simplicity and ubiquity of wireless charging. Much like a USB-C cable will charge any USB-C device; some USB-C chargers and devices allow for higher speeds, but there’s always a baseline you can rely on.
When asked by Android Authority why it decided not to adopt the Qi2 charging system, Google replied that Qi-compatible chargers are more readily available and that there are “no tangible benefits” to switching to the new Qi2 system. An answer that doesn’t make much sense.
Qi chargers are probably more readily available given their age, although Qi2 has been on the market since late 2023, so you won’t have any trouble finding a Qi2 charger (though they are a bit more expensive). In addition, Qi2 offers tangible benefits, as its magnet arrangement allows you to attach MagSafe accessories like pop sockets or tripods for camera phones, among others.
The real reason?
Google also had a much safer, more sensible answer than it could have given: Qi2 is too new. Yes, it came out in late 2023, but given how long the Pixel 9 was likely in development, it’s far from impossible that it was too late to add Qi2 by the time the charging technology became available.
Google isn’t the first Android device to abandon Qi2 in 2023, and with a third of the year left, it probably won’t be the last either—we suspect some 2025 devices won’t adopt it either.
That it doesn’t isn’t necessarily a big reason to ignore the Google Pixel 9, either. It’s just a little disappointing to see that some next-gen tech is missing from what seems like a great new phone – especially at a higher price than the last-gen Google Pixel 8.
We’re hoping the Google Pixel 10 will finally adopt Qi2 when it launches next year, but for now, if you want faster wireless charging for your Pixel 9, you’ll need to invest in an official Google Pixel Stand – or make do with a wired USB-C charger.
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