Pixel 10 ships with Qi2 charging

Google adds Qi2 wireless charging to the Pixel 10 series but removes reverse wireless charging due to magnetic constraints.

Pixel 10 gains Qi2 charging but loses Battery Share

Google has introduced Qi2 magnetic wireless charging with the Pixel 10, described by the company as delivering more efficient and reliable charging. The move positions the Pixel 10 among the early Android devices to support the standard and is accompanied by a lineup of Qi2 compatible accessories. At the same time, Google confirms Battery Share, its reverse wireless charging feature, is not included in the Pixel 10, a trade-off the company attributes to the magnet array used for Qi2.

Tech outlets noted the omission after reviewing Google’s specifications. Google’s explanation centers on physical limitations created by the Qi2 magnet array, which improves charging alignment but blocks the ability to wirelessly charge other devices from the Pixel 10 itself. The company says Battery Share is not currently available but leaves open the possibility of future innovations.

The Pixel 10 shows how hardware decisions can drive feature sets in ways software alone cannot. Adopting Qi2 offers faster, more reliable charging across compatible devices, but it also narrows what users expect from a flagship handset. That tension between efficiency and flexibility is a real moment for users who relied on reverse charging for accessories or other phones.

Looking ahead, this pattern may become common as more devices adopt Qi2. Manufacturers could prioritize a standardized, magnet-driven charging experience while limiting backward-compatible features. For users, the question is whether speed and ecosystem alignment are worth sacrificing a tool they might have counted on for hands-free charging in daily life.

Highlights

The next move in charging will test how much users value speed over flexibility.