Belkin says it’s too early to talk about true wireless chargers

Earlier this week, Israeli startup Wi-Charge revealed its plans to launch a true wireless charger that doesn’t require the device to be on a Qi dock.Wi-Charge CEO Ori Mor mentioned that the product could be released as early as this year thanks to a partnership with Belkin, but now the accessory maker says it’s “too early” to talk about it.

Belkin spokesperson Jen Wei confirmed in a statement (via Ars Technica) that the company has been working closely with Wi-Charge on product concepts.Contrary to what the Wi-Charge CEO said, however, the rollout of true wireless chargers could still be years away.
According to Belkin, both companies are committed to researching and developing new technologies to make true wireless charging a reality, but products featuring the technology will not be released until they have undergone numerous tests to confirm their “technical viability.” market.
“Currently, our agreement with Wi-Charge only commits us to R&D on some product concepts, so it is too early to comment on a viable consumer product,” Wei said in an emailed statement to Ars Technica.
“Belkin’s approach is to thoroughly investigate technical feasibility and conduct in-depth user testing before committing to a product concept. At Belkin, we only launch products when we confirm technical feasibility backed by deep consumer insights.”
In other words, it seems unlikely that Belkin will launch a true wireless charger this year.Even so, it’s great that the company is experimenting with the technology.
Wi-Charge technology is based on a transmitter that plugs into a wall socket and converts electrical energy into a safe infrared beam that transmits power wirelessly.Devices surrounding this transmitter can absorb energy within a 40-foot or 12-meter radius.The transmitter can provide up to 1W of power, which is not enough to charge a smartphone, but can be used with accessories like headphones and remote controls.
Since the 2022 deadline has been ruled out, perhaps we’ll see the first products with the technology sometime in 2023.
Filipe Espósito, a Brazilian tech journalist, started covering Apple news on iHelp BR, including some scoops—including the unveiling of the new Apple Watch Series 5 in titanium and ceramic.He joins 9to5Mac to share more tech news from around the world.