Qualcomm, Inc. announced in a blog on its website that it has begun shipping on an evaluation basis the next generation of wireless power to partners via the new WiPower Evaluation Kit. This kit provides developers with certain WiPower documentation and equipment so they can evaluate the potential use of those items to design products that incorporate WiPower technology.
WiPower is designed to permit a third party to develop products that are compatible with the wireless charging specification approved in January 2013, by the Alliance for Wireless Power (A4WP), and provides the ability to charge multiple devices at the same time when they are placed on or in close proximity to a single charging surface; even if they are of different types that require a different power outlay (i.e., you can simultaneously charge your phone and headset). Also, WiPower charging stations can be installed into most existing furniture without the need to cut through the wood. Installation can be as simple as affixing the station under the table with a couple of screws.
The ability to charge through surfaces is a key to wireless power becoming ubiquitous and universally available, and the spatial freedom demonstrated by WiPower and the A4WP is a sure way to get there. Other wireless power technologies require direct contact between the charging surface and the device being charged. This would mean retail establishments wanting to add wireless power need to either install new furniture with the technology pre-installed, or physically alter existing furniture, which can be both costly and messy. WiPower, which can charge through most surfaces up to about 45 millimeters, offers retailers a cleaner, more efficient way to adopt wireless charging.
For wireless power to truly take off, a simple and easy technology is needed at its core. Qualcomm believes WiPower is the answer.
