Samsung Galaxy S25 and the Case for Qi2 Wireless Charging
The Samsung Galaxy S25 series officially supports the Qi2 wireless charging standard, but there’s a catch: it doesn’t have built-in magnets. This means you’ll need a special case to use the newer Qi2 magnetic chargers. While this might initially seem like a frustrating extra expense, a closer look reveals some important considerations.
The Unexpected Benefits of a Case
Initially, many felt Samsung’s decision to omit built-in magnets was a ploy to boost case sales. However, using the Galaxy S25 Plus with a case highlighted several unforeseen advantages.
The primary benefit, of course, is protection. High-end smartphones like the Galaxy S25 are expensive. A case dramatically reduces the risk of damage from drops, scratches, and other everyday mishaps. This is especially crucial considering the phone’s potentially slippery design. For instance, one user mentioned their Oura ring was scratching the back of the phone; a case would easily prevent this.
Investing in a quality magnetic case addresses both issues simultaneously: protection and Qi2 compatibility. Many stylish and slim cases, including those from well-regarded brands, offer the magnetic functionality required by Qi2 chargers. These cases usually incorporate a small magnetic ring on the back, akin to Apple’s MagSafe system. The thin design ensures the phone maintains a sleek profile, negating the bulky look of older case designs.
Even if you have no intention of using Qi2 charging, the need for a case for such an expensive device is undeniable. The price for added protection against accidental damage or scratches is a small cost compared to the price paid for the device itself.
A Glimpse into MagSafe-like Functionality: The Motorola Razr
The Motorola Razr Plus offers a different perspective on magnetic charging. While it doesn’t officially advertise Qi2 or built-in magnetic charging, the phone incorporates magnets to keep it closed when folded. This feature unexpectedly enables magnet based accessory use, such as car mounts, without needing a case. This provides a unique user experience.
This shows that integrated magnets could be achieved in different ways and doesn’t require major hardware changes to the body of the phone. Furthermore, the existing magnets in the Razr plus still allows for 15W charging speeds with traditional Qi chargers, showing that the magnetic charging system is not critical for base level wireless charging speeds.
However, it’s essential to note that the Razr’s magnets may not be strong enough to support all accessories reliably; they are primarily for folding closure. Certain accessories with strong magnets work flawlessly, providing a near MagSafe experience.
The implications of the Razr’s design are compelling: it suggests that future flip phones could seamlessly integrate magnetic charging without bulkier designs. This integration would be a significant upgrade, especially considering the thickness often added by cases.
The Case for Cases: Practicality & Market Trends
The practicality of using a phone case cannot be overstated. Numerous surveys consistently show that a significant majority of smartphone users utilize cases, with many opting for third-party options. One survey from 2017 indicated that 79% of respondents used cases, while later research suggests an even higher percentage. These results highlight how much a case impacts user experience.
For those who still prioritize a case-free experience, that’s a personal choice. However, when considering purchasing a premium device like the Galaxy S25, a case, regardless of Qi2 compatibility, should be considered an essential part of the overall cost.
Choosing a magnetic case provides an added benefit of Qi2 compatibility without any significant impact on the phone’s style or functionality. The ability to stick the phone to chargers magnetically is convenient, the additional protection offered by the case far outweighs minor inconvenience. In essence, the increased charging convenience is an added perk — not the primary driver of deciding between using a case or not. The charging speed, whether through a magnetic or non-magnetic Qi charger, will still remain capped at 15W.
