what is qi wireless charging

Qi wireless charging is an interface standard for wireless power transfer using inductive charging. It allows compatible devices, such as smartphones, to charge their batteries when placed on a Qi charging pad, which can be effective over distances up to four cm (1.6 in) . Qi was first released in 2008 and is developed by the Wireless Power Consortium. It is an open, universal charging standard that is able to connect to Qi chargers from any manufacturer. As of February 2020, there are 488 manufacturers working with the standard including Apple, Asus, Google, Huawei, LG Electronics, Samsung, Xiaomi, and Sony. Qi wireless charging is based on "closely coupled" electromagnetic induction that requires the device to be aligned on top of the coil on the charging pad. Qi is the only wireless charging standard currently adopted by most major phone manufacturers.