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.

Enhanced Case Lineup Adds Functionality and Personalization

Samsung’s diverse case and cover offerings merge protection and style, adding greater personalization through refined new materials.

The all-new Alcantara Covers are fashioned from genuine Alcantara – a material oft used in the automotive, fashion and design industries for its elegance, comfort and practicality. Alcantara cases offer durable, suede-like looks with a texture that’s soft to the touch. Also new for 2017 are the silky matte Silicone Covers that offer sleek, lightweight protection in several vivid colors that cater to modern millennials’ style preferences.

The Clear View Standing Cover and LED View Cover for the Galaxy S8 are both covers that allow users to swipe to control calls, music and more, without having to open it up. The dedicated set of theme curations and designs, including exclusive backgrounds and apps that come along with the cases, offer further opportunities for users to personalize their phones.

The translucent matte Clear View Standing Cover also doubles as a kickstand that props the device up into a widescreen position, providing optimized content viewing on the go. LED View Cover displays pertinent information through 54, customizable LED notifications, allowing users to get the information they need with just a glance.

Other new covers include the 2Piece Cover and the re-designed Keyboard Cover for the Galaxy S8. The 2Piece Cover accentuates the aesthetic exterior of the Galaxy S8 with its unique, two-piece nature, and also offers better grip and protection. The color options range from bold, dual-color combinations to more minimalistic, single-tone designs. The Keyboard Cover requires no charging and features a detachable QWERTY keyboard that automatically optimizes the screen ratio when snapped on. Powered by Galaxy S8’s extended Infinity display, the Keyboard Cover offers a convenient mobile typing experience.

Design Through Collaboration

Samsung also teamed up with several prominent brands and designers to bring users evermore ways to express their personal style with their phones. A sampling of these collaborations include the Kate Spade NY Liquid Glitter Case, Adidas Performance Arm Band and the TUMI Leather CoMold Case.

The Kate Spade NY Liquid Glitter Case combines unique personal style with a playful sophistication, thanks to the glitter that floats around inside the case, resembling a snow globe. The Adidas Performance Arm Band, with its unique lightweight design, provides adjustable protection for the Galaxy S8 so users can stay focused on their run. The TUMI Leather CoMold Case, available in black and red, features a slim, premium quality coated canvas with raised edges to provide additional drop protection for your S8 or S8+.

Faster Charging on the Move

Crafted from soft, premium materials coupled with a minimalist touch that’s designed to complement its surroundings, Samsung’s Wireless Charger Convertible can do more than simply charge a Qi wireless charging enabled device* on its pad – it also doubles as a convenient stand for the phone so users can comfortably view content on their device while it charges in the background.

Samsung’s new 5100mAh Battery Packs sport a soft exterior texture with round curves, and now feature a convenient finger strap for increased portability. With fast-charge capabilities, a handy indicator light and refined styling, Samsung battery packs are the perfect companion to any smartphone. The packs are compatible with both USB Type-C and micro USB, thanks to its combo-cable companion that comes included.

*Charging your device wirelessly may require the addition of a wireless charging cover (sold separately)

**Accessories made by Samsung can be purchased through on and offline Samsung stores.

***Product availability may vary by each region and market condition.