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How does wireless charging work?

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Quick answer

Wireless charging works through electromagnetic induction. A coil in the charging pad creates a changing magnetic field, which induces an electric current in a matching coil inside your device — transferring energy across a small gap without a cable. A coil in the pad creates a changing magnetic field.

Step by step

  1. A coil in the pad creates a changing magnetic field.
  2. That field induces a current in your device's coil.
  3. Energy crosses a small gap without wires.
  4. Devices must be aligned and close for it to work.

People also ask

How does wireless charging work?
A charging pad's coil creates a magnetic field that induces current in a coil inside your device.
Why does wireless charging need the phone aligned?
The coils must be close and lined up for the magnetic field to transfer energy efficiently.
Is wireless charging slower than wired?
Often slightly slower and less efficient, as some energy is lost as heat during transfer.