Google's Pixel 11 range and other upcoming Android phones are adopting Qi2 25W, an upgraded version of the Qi2 wireless charging standard also known as Qi2.2. The change matters because it significantly boosts charging speed and reduces heat build-up compared with the original Qi2 spec, addressing two of the main drawbacks of wireless charging versus wired alternatives.

The key difference is power output: standard Qi2 tops out at 15 watts, whereas Qi2 25W delivers up to 25 watts. In practical terms, a device on standard Qi2 typically takes 50 to 80 minutes to reach 50% battery from empty, while Qi2 25W can do the same in around half an hour. Qi2.2 also offers improved thermal protection, keeping devices cooler while charging, which can help preserve long-term battery health.