Qualcomm and Verizon Wireless joins Qi standard’s board
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Good news for those Windows Phone users who have either wireless charging built in or invested in the charging cases and pads.
The Wireless Power Consortium, who controls the standard, has welcomed Verizon Wireless, already a major booster of the technology, and Qualcomm, who is part of rival Alliance for Wireless Power.
The Qi standard is already well established in the market, but is threatened by A4WP, who has strong backing by companies such as AT&T, Samsung and Starbucks. Qualcomm joining the WPC board opens up the hope of some unification or truce between the two standards.
Over 170 companies now back Qi, and Qi is used to charge devices in more places than any other wireless charging solution.
Qi was also recently selected as the in-car wireless charging standard by a standards association representing Audi, BMW, Daimler, Porsche, and Volkswagen. In addition, Mercedes-Benz has announced it will be introducing Qi-compatibility in its cars starting in 2014. Mercedes joins the Jeep Cherokee, Toyota Avalon, Toyota Prius, and SsangYong Chairman, which all currently feature Qi.
Hopefully the Qi standard has gained enough critical mass to win the battle for adoption decisively, which should allow Qi-enabled phone owners to find even more charging locations in more places.
Via Engadget.com
