Three of the Pixel 10 models are using an old Qi2 version, probably for very good reasons

0comments

By Ilia Temelkov

Published: Aug 22, 2025, 5:55 PM

We may earn a commission if you make a purchase from the links on this page.

Three of the Pixel 10 models are using an old Qi2 version, probably for very good reasons

One of the best new features on the Pixel 10 series is the Qi2 support with magnets, but it appears that Google cut some corners on most of the new devices. While the Pixel 10 Pro XL supports 25W wireless charging, the rest of the lineup utilizes an older version of the Qi standard.

Listings on the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) Qi Product Database show that the Pixel 10, 10 Pro, and 10 Pro Fold support a 2023 version of the Qi standard. The three devices have Qi 2.0.1, while the 10 Pro XL uses the latest version – Qi 2.2.0.

$150 off (19%)

The Tensor G5-powered Pixel 10 delivers great performance, excellent camera capabilities, and many AI features. At the moment, Amazon sells select 128GB variants for $150 off.

Buy at Amazon

Looking for a more flagship Pixel 10 experience in a compact form factor? Consider the Pixel 10 Pro! Right now, you can get the phone for $250 off at Amazon, making it a great pick for many. But that's not all! There's a $100 coupon available, bringing your total savings to $350.

Expired

Users after a larger screen and a serious Gemini AI prowess should consider the latest Google Pixel 10 Pro XL. The latest big-sized Google Pixel flagship is now $400 off at Amazon. The promo includes a $300 price cut and a $100 extra discount with a coupon code, which is applied at checkout.

Expired

Users of the Pixel 10 devices with Qi 2.0.1 support shouldn’t be worried. The devices can work with the same chargers and only support up to 15W wireless charging anyway. It is, however, weird that Google doesn’t use the same version of the Qi2 standard, considering it allows for different charging speeds.

As for the charging speed difference, Google has an explanation. The company told Android Authority that it wanted to reduce heat and extend the battery longevity.

Qi2 had a slow start, initially implemented on very few Android devices and all iPhones since the iPhone 12. That changed with the Samsung Galaxy S25 series, which supports Qi 2.1.0 and is “Qi2 Ready”. That means the device doesn’t have built-in magnets, but can use the full Qi2 functionality through magnetic cases.

Unlike Samsung, Google has fully committed to Qi2 and is the first major Android manufacturer to adopt the standard with built-in magnets. The company has also been partnering with the WPC on the development of the Qi 2.2 standard and its ability for faster wireless charging with up to 25W.

The major differences between the Qi2 versions are the following:

Qi 2.0 – Adds Magnetic Power Profile, based on Apple’s MagSafe
Qi 2.1 – Adds support for Magnetic Accessory Covers
Qi 2.2 – Adds support for 25W charging

Do you use wireless charging?

Yes, all the time

50.25%

Yes, but rarely

23.12%

No, but I want to

13.57%

No, and I don’t want to

13.07%

199 Votes

When comparing the slower-charging Pixel 10 models with the competition it becomes clear that the difference is not that significant. The only other major devices that support Qi2 with magnets are Apple’s smartphones, and even the iPhone 16 series works with the 2.0.1 version of the standard.

Wireless charging is an amazing feature, and magnets make it even better. I personally see battery longevity as a priority over fast-charging abilities, so I’m fine with Google’s decision. However, I am curious if Apple will up its game and offer 25W MagSafe on all iPhone 17 models.

Get unlimited talk, text, & data on the T-Mobile 5G Network plus earn cash back for data you don’t use.

Buy at Noble Moblie

Follow us on Google News

View Full Bio

Ilia, a tech journalist at PhoneArena, has been covering the mobile industry since 2011, with experience at outlets like Forbes Bulgaria. Passionate about smartphones, tablets, and consumer tech, he blends deep industry knowledge with a personal fascination that began with his first Nokia and Sony Ericsson devices. Originally from Bulgaria and now based in Lima, Peru, Ilia balances his tech obsessions with walking his dog, training at the gym, and slowly mastering Spanish.

Read the latest from Ilia Temelkov