As anticipation builds for the upcoming iPhone 17 series, fresh reports indicate that Apple may finally bring reverse wireless charging to its flagship models. If confirmed, this long-awaited feature would mark a first for iPhone users—and a major leap forward in how we power our Apple peripherals.
What’s the Buzz?
The news comes from a tip on Weibo by the leaker known as Instant Digital, now verified by authoritative outlets like Gadgets 360 and TechRadar. The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are reportedly being tested with 7.5W reverse wireless charging, a significant upgrade that would allow users to wirelessly charge compatible devices like AirPods or Apple Watch—possibly even a future MagSafe Battery Pack—straight from their iPhone.
If true, this would outpace Samsung’s PowerShare featured on the Galaxy S25 Ultra, which offers only 4.5W—making Apple’s Pro models potentially the fastest in the game.
Why It Matters
Reverse wireless charging isn’t new to the Android world. Samsung introduced it as early as 2019, followed closely by other brands like Xiaomi and OnePlus. But for Apple, integrating this feature into the iPhone has been elusive—until now.
Envision a scenario where your AirPods case is dying mid-call, or your Apple Watch runs out of juice during a workout. Instead of scrambling for a charger, you could simply place the accessory on the back of your iPhone to power it up. A small convenience that could make a big impact.
Technical Challenges & Possible Advantages
Two key upgrades may be driving Apple’s ability to support reverse wireless charging:
- Larger Battery – Leaks suggest the iPhone 17 Pro Max will be slightly thicker (8.725mm vs 8.25mm), likely to accommodate a bigger battery.
- Advanced Heat Dissipation – A revamped vapor chamber design could tame the heat generated when the phone acts as a power source.
These internal enhancements signal Apple’s serious move toward building devices capable of sharing power efficiently, boosting longevity without compromising performance.
iPhone Ecosystem Boost
Beyond practicality, reverse wireless charging strengthens Apple’s ecosystem. Imagine docking your AirPods or Apple Watch on your phone without wires or dedicated chargers. Apple tried something similar with the ill-fated AirPower mat and the MagSafe Battery Pack, but those never gained traction.
With reverse wireless charging built into the phone itself, Apple could pull off a seamless user experience—one that competitors already offer but with tighter integration.
A Rumor Worth Watching
While this news is exciting, it’s still speculative. Apple is expected to officially unveil the iPhone 17 lineup in September 2025—likely during an event around September 9. Only then will we know if reverse wireless charging will ditch the rumor mill and enter reality.
Final Thoughts
If Apple delivers reverse wireless charging with the iPhone 17 Pro series, it would significantly elevate the iPhone’s utility and ecosystem integration. From simplifying accessory charging to offering a sleek, cable-free experience, this feature could be a “wow” moment for users.
As always, we’ll be watching closely—just don’t hold your breath until the September reveal.
