True wireless charging is a pi thing

With the recent introduction of new Apple phones, the concept of wireless charging has been revitalized. The new iPhone 8, 8 Plus and iPhone X integrate inductive wireless charging compatible with the popular Qi system, however, this is not really a wireless charge because, although it is true that the cable between the device and the power supply disappears, the User does not enjoy complete freedom to use their smartphone while it is being charged. Still, the real dream of getting home and having the phone charge as if by magic seems somewhat closer, although not thanks to those on the block.

Real wireless charging is now closer

Let's acknowledge that Apple has done nothing but implement an existing and used technology in its new iPhone. But the true wireless charge, that is, that distance and without cables, without the need for any contact, seems to be a thing of a small startup located in California under the name of Pi.

The Pi charger would end those limitations and extend the distance a device can be charged, wirelessly and without contact. It is a cone-shaped device that you can see on these lines and that, combining Qi inductive charging technology with a certain special algorithm, is capable of creating a certain “energy field that allows charging multiple devices within an approximate radius of 0.3 meters.

Obviously, it is still far from Energous' WattUp technology, capable of reaching 4.5 meters; It is a short distance but still offers more flexibility and freedom than the Qi induction charging that Apple has also now implemented in its new iPhone.

At a TechCrunch event, the company has shown how up to four devices compatible with the Qi charging system can be charged simultaneously while being within the range of Pi. Also, the closer the device is to Pi, the faster it charges, and vice versa.

At the moment the price that the Pi charger will have is unknown, although its development team hopes to be able to set it below $ 200 when, possibly, it will be released sometime in 2018.