The Galaxy S25 series is available for pre-order and will officially be released on February 7. While there aren't many new features, Samsung is still introducing a few improvements, including support for Qi 2.1. But be careful, Samsung has chosen a somewhat unusual approach for its Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra...
Qi 2, Qi 2.1, and "Qi2 Ready": a complicated story
To understand, we need to go back to Qi2, the new wireless charging standard launched in 2023 by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC). Inspired by Apple's MagSafe, Qi2 uses magnets to perfectly align the device on the charger, promising faster and more efficient charging. There are some differences in terms of compatibility and magnet layout, but the basic idea is the same and Apple quickly moved to Qi 2. The Cupertino company even offered software updates to bring this compatibility to older models, including the iPhone 12.
On the other hand, the Android universe is dragging its feet to take the plunge and the HMD Skyline is the only Qi2-branded smartphone to have seen the light of day in 2024. At CES 2025, Samsung and Google made announcements mentioning (PDF) the arrival of Qi2-compatible Galaxy devices this year or working on the next Qi2.2 standard in the case of Google. While there is no indication that future Pixels will support the current standard, expectations around the Galaxy S25 were high, and that's where Qi 2.1 comes in.
While the main new feature of Qi 2 is the introduction of the magnet system, the arrival of Qi 2.1 nuances this obligation and brings a lot of flexibility. The Qi 2.1 standard introduces the possibility for manufacturers to offer Qi 2.1 compatible devices without integrating magnets. In this case, magnetic alignment is ensured by the use of a magnetic case. And the best example is Samsung, which has opted for a hybrid solution with its new series.
The Galaxy S25: "Qi2 Ready" but not quite Qi2
The Galaxy S25 are "Qi2 Ready" and require a magnetic case to take full advantage of Qi2 charging. Given the lack of enthusiasm for Qi2 from Android manufacturers, it is likely that the WPC has decided to make concessions to push for the adoption of its standard. However, the measure makes things even more complicated for consumers. As it stands, a Galaxy S25 Ultra (or S25/S25+) can become Qi 2 compatible with a compatible case like the Clear Magnetic Case sold by Samsung.
The result is a smartphone with a style very similar to the iPhone, where the magnets are highlighted. Accessory manufacturers will also be able to sell cases with magnets to allow Galaxy S25 owners to place them on Qi2-certified chargers and accessories. It is also likely that the introduction of "Qi2 Ready" will stimulate the development of accessories for Android smartphones. We then say that all's well that ends well, except that 9to5Google reveals that the position of the induction coil can pose a problem with the Galaxy S25. It is high on the back of the smartphone and an accessory can cover the camera lenses.
A first… and still disappointing charging speeds
Finally, it’s important to note that Qi 2.1 support doesn’t offer faster charging speeds. As Android Police explains, the Galaxy S25 series’ wireless charging experience is the same as the previous generation. The Galaxy S25s aren’t breaking any records when it comes to charging speeds, with the best-case scenario being 45W wired (S25+ and S25 Ultra) and 25W at worst (S25). Despite the change in standard, wireless charging still tops out at 15W on all three models.
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