How to use a wireless charger?

Tired of plugging and unplugging charging cables? Worried about wearing out your phone’s charging port? Wireless charging offers a super simple, convenient way to power up your compatible devices without the fuss.

Simply plug your wireless charging pad or stand into a power source, like a wall adapter. Then, place your compatible smartphone or device flat onto the center of the charger. Look for a charging confirmation (like an icon) on your device’s screen.

It really is almost that simple! As someone who’s overseen the production of countless chargers here at FUMEI, I know the technology might seem complex, but using it day-to-day is designed to be effortless. It takes the hassle out of staying powered up. Let’s break down exactly what you need to get started and the simple steps involved.

What do I need to start wireless charging?

Unsure what gear you actually need to ditch the cable? Worried about buying incompatible parts or missing something crucial? Getting set up for wireless charging is easier than you think with just a few key items.

You need three main things: a device compatible with wireless charging (like most modern smartphones), a wireless charger itself (pad or stand), and a suitable power adapter to plug the charger into the wall socket.

Getting these three pieces right ensures a smooth, efficient charging experience. It prevents the frustration of slow charging or finding out your new gadget isn’t compatible. Let’s look closer at each component.

Your Device: Is it Compatible?

The most important piece is having a device built for wireless charging. Most modern smartphones from major brands (Apple iPhones 8/X and newer, Samsung Galaxy S/Note series from S6/Note5 onwards, Google Pixel 3 and newer, etc.) support the Qi (pronounced "chee") standard¹. This is the universal standard, meaning a Qi-certified charger should work with any Qi-enabled device. Some newer iPhones (12 and later) also feature MagSafe, Apple’s magnetic system that aligns perfectly with MagSafe chargers for potentially faster speeds (up to 15W vs. Qi’s typical 7.5W/10W). Always check your device manufacturer’s specifications to confirm Qi or MagSafe compatibility.

The Charger: Pad or Stand?

Wireless chargers mainly come in two forms:

• Pads: Flat surfaces you lay your device on. Great for nightstands or unobtrusive desk charging.
• Stands: Hold your device upright, making it easy to see notifications or use Face ID while charging. Ideal for desks or kitchen counters.
  Regardless of style, always look for Qi Certification. This logo means the charger has been tested for safety, interoperability, and energy efficiency. At FUMEI, ensuring our chargers meet these standards is paramount for reliable quality. MagSafe² chargers are specific to compatible iPhones and offer that magnetic ‘snap’.

The Power Source: Don’t Forget the Adapter!

The wireless charger itself needs power. Most come with a USB cable but often not the wall adapter (power brick). Crucially, the adapter’s output determines charging speed. Using an old 5W phone adapter will result in slow wireless charging, even if the pad and phone support faster speeds. For optimal performance (e.g., 7.5W/10W Qi or 15W MagSafe), you’ll likely need a USB Power Delivery (PD) adapter³ with sufficient wattage (e.g., 18W or 20W+). Check the wireless charger’s requirements.

What’s the actual process of wireless charging?

Got your compatible phone, Qi-certified charger, and the right power adapter? Feeling hesitant about the exact steps? Worried you’ll place the phone wrong or it won’t charge correctly? Following these simple steps ensures it works perfectly every time.

First, connect your wireless charger to its power adapter and plug that into a wall socket. Place your compatible device flat onto the charging surface, aiming for the center charging coil area. Look or listen for confirmation (screen icon, sound) that charging has started.

It’s designed to be intuitive, but proper placement and avoiding interference are key for efficiency and safety. Here’s a slightly more detailed breakdown:

Step 1: Power Up the Charger

Connect the USB cable securely to the wireless charging pad/stand and then plug the other end into your power adapter. Plug the adapter into a working wall outlet. Many chargers have an indicator light to show they are receiving power. Make sure connections are snug – a loose cable can interrupt charging, a common issue David (my target user) would want to avoid.

Step 2: Place Your Device Correctly

This is the most crucial step for standard Qi charging. Gently place your phone or other Qi-enabled device flat onto the charging surface.

• Alignment: Try to align the center of your phone’s back with the center of the charging pad/stand. This is where the receiving coil usually is. Misalignment (being off-center) is the most common reason for slow or failed wireless charging because the energy transfer is less efficient. You might need to adjust slightly to find the "sweet spot."
• MagSafe: If using an iPhone 12 or newer with a MagSafe charger, the magnets will automatically snap it into the perfect alignment – a major convenience benefit.

Step 3: Check for Confirmation

Once properly placed, your device should indicate that it’s charging. This is usually:

• A charging icon (like a lightning bolt) appearing in the status bar.
• A brief sound or vibration.
• The screen lighting up to show the charging status.
  If you don’t see or hear confirmation within a few seconds, lift the device and try repositioning it slightly.

Things to Avoid for Best Results

• Thick Cases: Very bulky cases (over 3-5mm typically) or those with metal components (kickstands, grip rings, magnetic plates for car mounts) can block or interfere with charging. Pop sockets can also prevent close contact. Remove the case if you suspect issues.
• Metal Objects: Never place keys, coins, credit cards, or other metal objects between the phone and the charger. This can interfere with charging and potentially damage the objects or charger due to heat. Many chargers have Foreign Object Detection (FOD) to prevent this, but it’s best practice to keep the surface clear.
• Heat: Avoid charging in direct sunlight or near heat sources. Wireless charging generates some heat naturally; excessive ambient heat can cause the phone or charger to temporarily stop charging for safety.

Quick Troubleshooting

If charging doesn’t start or stops unexpectedly:

1. Reposition the phone on the charger.
2. Remove the phone case.
3. Ensure the charger is properly plugged in with the correct power adapter.
4. Restart your phone.

Following these steps makes wireless charging a reliable and hassle-free experience, just like we aim for with FUMEI products.

Conclusion

Wireless charging is simple: connect the charger to power, place your compatible device on top (centered is key!), and check for the charging confirmation. It’s a convenient, cable-free way to keep powered up.