Charged Up: The Evolution of Samsung’s Wireless Charging Technology

Wireless chargers have in recent years transformed the mobile landscape by making the smartphone charging process more convenient. By simply placing their mobile device on top of an inductive charger, rather than plugging it in, smartphone users can easily charge their battery, without having to mess around with ports or wires. And, if they’re in a rush, can just as quickly grab their phone and be on their way.

Samsung’s Wireless Charger Convertible, which was released with the Galaxy S8 and S8+, features a modern, highly versatile design that beautifully blends into just about any home or workplace environment. While it offers users a more convenient and intuitive means to charge Qi-compatible mobile vices, it’s only the newest of the company’s wireless charging products, which have evolved both in function and form since they were first developed.

Taking Charge of New Tech

In late 2000, Samsung created a special team designed exclusively to focus on wireless charging, and began extensive research and development. The goal was to develop a technology that was convenient and easy to use in order to promote and drive the widespread adoption of wireless technology standards. As they soon learned, several obstacles had to be overcome for wireless charging technology to succeed in the market, most notably the size and price of some of the most crucial components.

Their efforts finally paid off in 2011, when Samsung introduced its first commercial wireless charging pad for Droid Charge (SCH-i510) in the US. Two years later, the company launched a wireless charging cover for the Galaxy S4 as well as the S Charger, another wireless charging device.

The Wireless Charging Era Begins

However, it wasn’t until early 2015 that Samsung embedded a wireless charging integrated circuit (IC) into its Galaxy S6 and S6 edge devices, making wireless charging a basic option for smartphone users.

Unlike previous devices, its new Wireless Charging Pad (EP-PG920) incorporated glass-like materials to match the aesthetics of the phone. It was also circular in shape, which made it easier for consumers to locate the center of the device, the area where the charger connects to the smartphone via an electromagnetic field.

Later that year, the introduction of the Fast Charge Wireless Charging Pad (EP-PN920) enabled consumers to more quickly charge their Galaxy Note5 and S6 edge+, while design enhancements allowed it to better blend into its surroundings.

In 2016, Samsung enhanced the wireless charging experience by presenting the Fast Charge Wireless Charging Stand (EP-NG930), a new, stand-type charger which let consumers more conveniently check their notifications or watch videos while charging their phone. It also featured two embedded coils which permitted the phone to be charged in either a horizontal or vertical position.

A New Design for the Times

Now, Samsung’s iconic circular wireless charger has evolved even further with the fast-charging Wireless Charger Convertible (EP-PG950). Its new, innovative design allows it to function as both a charging pad and stand, depending on the user’s needs. When positioned as a stand, the device allows users to interact with their phone – to, for instance, take a call, find a song or review their notifications – without interrupting its charge. Adjusting the device from stand to pad and vice versa is simple, and it can easily be folded for convenient transport.

With three embedded wireless charging coils, which cover more real estate on the circular pad, the charger offers users more leeway during use, allowing them to position their phone horizontally or even askew while still ensuring a steady charge. Furthermore, the device’s soft contours and premium, leather-like materials make it equally suitable for placement in the office, the living room or on the user’s bedside table.

As wireless charging technology continues to evolve, Samsung hopes to remain at the forefront of the industry, leading mobile innovation through the introduction of products that are accessible and meaningful to all mobile users.