Samsung Galaxy mobiles need a redesign to fully embrace Qi2 standard: Report

Samsung

Samsung is finally set to adopt Qi2 magnets in the upcoming Galaxy S26 series, but the company’s current design language could prevent users from enjoying the true benefits of the standard, as per a report by 9to5 Mac.

The Galaxy S25 lineup and Samsung’s latest foldables were only “Qi2 Ready,” meaning the magnets were not built into the devices themselves but instead left to third-party cases. This approach offered little improvement over traditional magnetic cases already available for most Android phones. Full Qi2 support, on the other hand, ensures magnets are built-in and universally aligned with accessories, working seamlessly with or without a case.

While the appeal of magnetic accessories is undeniable, from wireless chargers to wallets, battery packs, and mounts- Samsung’s design creates major obstacles. The corner placement and vertical arrangement of the Galaxy camera lenses leave very little space between the module and the wireless charging coil. That often forces accessories to attach at awkward angles, partially block the cameras, or fail to latch on properly.

Samsung itself seems aware of the issue, having released a magnetic wallet designed to sit lower on the phone to avoid the camera module. But the same fix does not work for all accessories, especially bulkier ones like battery banks. Users of the Galaxy Z Fold series have reported limited compatibility, with most Qi2 battery packs obstructed by the phone’s camera housing.

The real solution would require Samsung to rethink its camera layout. Shifting the charging coil further down would only cause other usability issues, so the only practical path forward is a broader redesign.

Leaks suggest, however, that such changes are not arriving with the Galaxy S26 series. The Pro and Ultra models are expected to retain the same design as their predecessors, while only the Galaxy S26 Edge is tipped to feature a refreshed look. In contrast, Apple’s iPhone 17 lineup and Google’s Pixel phones, with their sectioned-out and bar-style camera designs,  are already better optimised for Qi2 and MagSafe accessories.

Samsung may add magnets to future Galaxy devices, but without a design overhaul, users are unlikely to experience the full potential of Qi2.