According to sources on Weibo, Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 Pro model might introduce reverse wireless charging, allowing the phone to power other Apple devices. While Apple has been testing this feature on its latest high-end smartphones, it remains to be seen whether this technology will be officially launched at the upcoming event.
This marks the second time this year that news has surfaced about the iPhone 17 series being equipped with reverse wireless charging. Back in February, another Weibo tipster Moment Digital revealed that Apple was testing a 7.5W reverse charging feature for the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max, allowing users to charge Apple accessories like AirPods, Apple Watch, and even the upcoming MagSafe external battery.
Apple’s exploration of reverse wireless charging technology dates back to 2021, when the company introduced the MagSafe battery pack compatible with the iPhone 12 and later models. When this battery pack is connected to the iPhone via the Lightning port, the iPhone can supply power to the MagSafe external battery. This marked a pivotal moment as it was the first time an iPhone could transfer power to an accessory.
Nonetheless, in September 2023, Apple ceased production of the MagSafe external battery, coinciding with the launch of the iPhone 15 series, which saw the replacement of Lightning cables with USB-C ports. The iPhone 15 and subsequent models support reverse charging for Apple Watch, AirPods, and other compatible small devices that can handle up to 4.5W Power Delivery through the USB-C port. However, since the discontinuation of the MagSafe battery pack, the wireless reverse charging feature for Apple devices remains disabled.
Supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicted in 2022 that the relaunched MagSafe Battery Pack would eventually transition to a USB-C interface, but that forecast has yet to materialize. Similarly, Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman noted in September 2023 that he remains optimistic about the return of the USB-C version of the MagSafe Battery Pack Final, but he also cautioned everyone Don’t get your hopes up..
According to internal information from a German mobile phone provider, Apple is set to unveil details about the iPhone 17 series at the upcoming launch event. Pre-orders are expected to begin on September 12, with the official release following on September 19. During this time, all the rumors regarding the reverse wireless charging feature will be clarified.
