Qualcomm has made a breakthrough in wireless charging by solving how to support mobile devices with metal cases.
The company's new embedded solution uses WiPower technology, and is compliant with its own Qi rival Rezence.
Until now, wireless charging has only worked with weaker material such as plastic but Rezence's higher frequency means it can pass through metal bodies more easily.
The technology could be a viable solution for Apple's iPhone and many other manufacturers who have avoided sacrificing metal cases for wireless charging so far.
"Today, more device manufacturers are choosing to utilise metal alloys in their product designs to provide greater structural support and, of course, aesthetics," said the company's general manager of wireless charging Steve Pazol.
Qualcomm says it will work with handset makers on their metal back cover design to ensure they meet the power transfer requirements, as well as meeting the requirements to coexist with the other radios in their phones.
