iPhone 17 Pro will wirelessly charge your AirPods, Apple Watch
What's the story
Apple's highly-anticipated iPhone 17 Pro models will come with a reverse wireless charging feature, according to leaker Fixed Focus Digital. The feature would allow the new high-end smartphones to charge other Apple devices. However, it remains unclear if this capability will be available out of the box when the devices launch next month.
Feature history
Reverse wireless charging on iPhone 17 Pro, Pro Max
The reverse wireless charging feature has been a long-standing rumor for iPhones. In February, another leaker, Instant Digital, claimed that Apple was testing 7.5W reverse wireless charging on the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max. The feature could potentially be used to charge other Apple accessories such as AirPods or an Apple Watch.
Past innovations
Apple introduced reverse wireless charging in 2021
Apple first introduced reverse wireless charging capabilities in 2021 with the launch of the MagSafe Battery Pack for iPhone 12 and later models. The pack could draw power from an iPhone connected via Lightning cable, marking the first instance of an iPhone powering an accessory device. However, while wireless reverse charging has not been implemented since the discontinuation of the MagSafe Battery Pack in September 2023, reverse charging via USB-C is still available in iPhone 15 and later models.
Current capabilities
iPhone 15 and later models can charge Apple Watch, AirPods
The iPhone 15 and later models do offer some reverse charging capabilities. They can charge smaller devices like Apple Watch and AirPods that support Power Delivery at up to 4.5W via the USB-C port. However, the wireless reverse charging feature for Apple devices has not been implemented since the discontinuation of the MagSafe Battery Pack.
Upcoming launch
iPhone 17 series expected to launch in early September
The iPhone 17 series is expected to be a major milestone for Apple's smartphone lineup. The company is said to be preparing for an early September launch event. The range will likely include the standard iPhone 17, a thinner and lighter iPhone 17 Air, as well as the high-end iPhone 17 Pro and flagship model iPhone 17 Pro Max.