Apple ‘developing’ wireless-charged smartphone

Taipei - Apple is working with partners in the US and Asia to develop new wireless charging technology that could be deployed on its mobile devices as soon as next year, according to people familiar with the plans.

Apple is exploring cutting-edge technologies that would allow iPhones and iPads to be powered from further away than the charging mats used with current smartphones, the people said, asking not to be identified as the details are private.

The iPhone maker is looking to overcome technical barriers including loss of power over distance with a decision on implementing the technology still being assessed, they said.

With iPhones and iPads generating more than three quarters of Apple’s revenue, new technologies can give its devices an edge and help the company sell products at a premium in a slowing market.

Samsung Electronics, Sony and Google are among rivals that have released wirelessly-charged smartphones that still require proximity to a charging plate.

Efficiency of power transfer decreases as the distance between transmitter and receiver grows, which means batteries take longer to recharge.

Trudy Muller, a spokesperson for Apple, declined to comment when contacted by Bloomberg News.