iOS 26 Unlocks 25W Wireless Charging for iPhone 16 Lineup

Apple’s upcoming iOS 26 update, expected to roll out officially in September, brings a significant upgrade for iPhone 16 users: 25W Qi 2.2 wireless charging support.

Until now, iPhone 16 models could only achieve 25W charging speeds using Apple’s proprietary MagSafe charger. Third-party Qi chargers were limited to 15W. With iOS 26, this restriction is lifted—iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max will now support full-speed 25W wireless charging using any Qi 2.2-compliant charger.

This is great news for users who prefer third-party accessories and want faster charging without depending on Apple’s MagSafe ecosystem.

What Else is New in iOS 26?

iOS 26 isn’t just about faster charging. It’s one of Apple’s most ambitious updates in years, delivering a refreshed design, smarter interactions, and deeper integration of Apple Intelligence—Apple’s privacy-focused AI system.

According to Craig Federighi, Apple’s SVP of Software Engineering, iOS 26 “reimagines the iPhone experience,” especially across the Lock Screen, Home Screen, Phone, and Messages apps. The goal? Make the entire system feel more personal, powerful, and intuitive.

Here are some key highlights:

• A visually striking redesign of the entire OS

• Smarter controls and filtering in the Phone and Messages apps

• Updates to CarPlay, Apple Music, Maps, and Wallet

• A brand-new app called Apple Games, which centralizes your entire game library in one place

Why 25W Qi 2.2 Charging Matters

No More Limits on Third-Party Accessories

With iOS 26, Apple has finally removed one of the key barriers to using non-MagSafe accessories. Qi 2.2-certified chargers can now deliver full 25W wireless charging, meaning:

• Faster charge times with more accessory options

• Better compatibility with affordable third-party chargers

• Less reliance on Apple’s MagSafe ecosystem

Charging Freedom, Apple Style

While MagSafe remains a flagship solution, this update offers real flexibility. Users can now experience high-speed wireless charging without being locked into Apple’s own accessories—a move that feels more open and consumer-friendly.

Apple Intelligence: Privacy-Focused AI, Everywhere

iOS 26 is also a major step forward in Apple’s AI strategy. Apple Intelligence is now embedded throughout the operating system, bringing smarter suggestions and contextual features without compromising privacy.

Some standout capabilities include:

• More natural Siri interactions

• AI-driven message and content suggestions

• Enhanced productivity features built right into the OS

Apple emphasizes that all AI features are designed with privacy at the core, meaning no cloud-based data mining.

Introducing Apple Games

The all-new Apple Games app consolidates every game installed on your iPhone into one sleek, easy-to-navigate hub. Beyond simple organization, the app supports:

• Achievement tracking

• Personalized game recommendations

• Friend-based scoreboards and social features

It’s Apple’s clearest signal yet that mobile gaming is a core part of the iPhone ecosystem.

Device Compatibility and Limitations

The new 25W Qi 2.2 wireless charging support is exclusive to the following models:

• iPhone 16

• iPhone 16 Plus

• iPhone 16 Pro

• iPhone 16 Pro Max

Apple has confirmed that the iPhone 16e will not support this feature at launch. It’s unclear whether a future software update will change that.

iOS 26 Release Timeline

Apple is expected to release iOS 26 to the public in September 2025. As with previous rollouts, the update will be available in stages, with priority going to newer iPhone models.

FAQs

Which chargers can deliver 25W wireless charging?
Any charger that is Qi 2.2 certified will work with iPhone 16 models running iOS 26.

Is iOS 26 compatible with older iPhones?
Yes, but some features—including 25W Qi 2.2 support—are exclusive to the iPhone 16 series.

Will Apple Games be available on all iPhones?
Yes, as long as the device supports iOS 26.