Reverse wireless charging rumored for iPhone 17 Pro models

Reverse Wireless Charging Rumored for iPhone 17 Pro Models: What It Means for Apple Users

Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 Pro models are rumored to feature reverse wireless charging — a long-anticipated functionality that has yet to officially arrive on any iPhone. While Android flagships from Samsung, Huawei, and Google have included this feature for years, Apple has taken a more cautious approach. Now, reports suggest that reverse wireless charging could finally make its debut in 2025, significantly enhancing the iPhone’s versatility and ecosystem synergy.

But what exactly is reverse wireless charging, and why does it matter? More importantly, how would this rumored feature fit into Apple’s broader vision for its devices? Let’s break it down.

What Is Reverse Wireless Charging?

Reverse wireless charging, also known as bilateral wireless charging, allows a smartphone to act as a power source for other devices. Instead of simply receiving a charge from a wireless pad, the phone itself can charge accessories — or even other phones — when placed back-to-back.

Imagine placing your AirPods, Apple Watch, or another iPhone on the back of your iPhone 17 Pro to top up its battery wirelessly. No cables, no docks — just seamless, contact-based energy transfer using the Qi wireless charging standard or Apple’s proprietary MagSafe technology.

The iPhone and Wireless Charging: A Slow Evolution

Apple introduced wireless charging with the iPhone 8 series back in 2017, but the technology has evolved incrementally since then. With the introduction of MagSafe on the iPhone 12, wireless charging became faster, more stable, and smarter through the use of magnets and intelligent alignment. Yet, even as other flagship devices gained the ability to give a wireless charge, iPhones have remained passive receivers.

Interestingly, teardowns and regulatory filings have hinted that some recent iPhone models — such as the iPhone 14 Pro — may already include the hardware necessary for reverse wireless charging. However, Apple has yet to activate it, likely due to concerns over efficiency, heat management, and real-world reliability.

Why Now? Timing and Strategy

So why is Apple rumored to finally introduce this feature with the iPhone 17 Pro lineup?

1. Maturity of Hardware and Efficiency Improvements

Reverse charging can generate excess heat and drain battery life if not optimized properly. With advances in battery technology, improved thermal design, and the new A19 Pro chip expected to power the iPhone 17 Pro models, Apple may now feel confident in enabling this feature without compromising the user experience.

2. Tighter Ecosystem Integration

Apple continues to push for tighter integration between its products. Reverse wireless charging would enhance the value of owning multiple Apple devices. Imagine charging your AirPods Pro or Apple Watch simply by placing them on the back of your iPhone while commuting. This level of convenience reinforces brand loyalty and makes the ecosystem more appealing.

3. MagSafe as a Catalyst

Apple’s MagSafe technology could play a pivotal role in making reverse charging practical and user-friendly. The magnets ensure proper alignment, reducing energy loss and improving charging efficiency. Apple may limit reverse charging to MagSafe-certified accessories to maintain quality control and performance.

4. Competitive Pressure

Apple is often strategic, not always first. Android competitors like Samsung and Huawei have had reverse charging for years. With the industry standardizing around features like USB-C, fast charging, and shared power, Apple may be adding reverse charging simply to stay competitive in the premium market.

Potential Use Cases

If the rumor proves true, reverse wireless charging on the iPhone 17 Pro could support a range of practical uses:

• Topping up AirPods or Apple Watch while on the go

• Charging another iPhone or device in emergencies

• Powering small MagSafe-compatible accessories

• Eliminating the need for separate chargers when traveling

The feature would likely be limited to accessories and lower-wattage charging to avoid excessive heat and battery drain. Still, even limited reverse charging would be a significant convenience upgrade for many users.

Apple’s Possible Limitations

While exciting, Apple may not fully unlock reverse wireless charging from day one. The company is known for gradual feature rollouts. The function might initially be restricted to specific accessories or available only under certain battery thresholds. Apple could also position it as a Pro-exclusive feature, reinforcing the distinction between standard and Pro iPhone models.

Some speculate it may even come disabled by default

Requiring user activation through Settings, to preserve battery longevity. Apple’s focus on battery health and controlled thermal behavior may shape how widely and openly the feature is offered.

Reverse wireless charging has been one of the most requested features among iPhone users, especially those embedded in Apple’s ecosystem. If the rumors about the iPhone 17 Pro are accurate, this feature could mark a new chapter in iPhone functionality — one that emphasizes not just what your phone can do for you, but what it can do for your other devices.

As Apple continues to refine its hardware and deepen integration across its product line, reverse wireless charging would be a logical — and highly useful — addition to the iPhone experience.

With the iPhone 17 Pro expected to launch in September 2025, we won’t have to wait long to see if this feature finally becomes a reality.