MWC 2018 Highlight: All major Android phone manufacturers announce new models featuring Qi wireless charging

Qi - the universal standard for wireless charging, continues its rapid growth and steady expansion with many more handsets joining the family.

The top four Android smartphone manufacturers Samsung, Sony, LG and Nokia all announced their new 2018 devices will support Qi wireless charging at MWC 2018 in Barcelona this week.

The hotly-anticipated launch of Samsung’s newest flagship phone, the Galaxy S9 on 25th February 2018 was just the first of several announcements from the world’s largest mobile phone manufacturers. The Galaxy S9 offers an impressive upgrade in camera capabilities and as well as an upgraded chipset while retaining the 3,000 mAh battery and 5.8” super AMOLED display. The S9+ offers even more, with a dual rear facing camera and 6GB RAM. Both devices continue Samsung’s commitment to the Qi wireless charging standard, offered since the launch of the Samsung Galaxy S6 and Note 5.

Following on the heels of Samsung, Sony have announced their first Qi-certified wirelessly charging devices: the flagship Xperia XZ2 and Xperia XZ2 Compact. The Japanese tech giant has also focussed on the camera for their new handset, but the inclusion of Qi wireless charging capability has been welcomed by fans.

LG continues to include Qi wireless charging in their upgrade to the V30: the V30S ThinQ. The devices are stacked with in-built AI features in their dual camera setup as well as up to 6GB RAM as they attempt to go head-to-head with Samsung’s S9 and S9+.

Finally, Nokia has unveiled the Nokia 8 Sirocco, a more than modest upgrade to last year’s Nokia 8. The update pushes the handset firmly into flagship territory, with a premium glass body sporting glossy black edges, waterproofing to IP67 rating and a 5.5” curved OLED display, while the high-capacity 3,260mAh battery is Qi-compatible.

All these devices are fully compatible with Aircharge’s range of wireless chargers, and users will be able to take advantage of over 5,000 public wireless charging locations around the world via the Aircharge app such as cafes, restaurants and hotels, as well as wireless charging solutions in over 90 vehicle brands.