New images detailing a Samsung Qi2 battery bank, reportedly designed for the upcoming Galaxy S26 series, have surfaced. These developments coincide with conflicting information regarding whether the Galaxy S26 series will feature native Qi2 magnet support, despite earlier indications. The battery bank includes a design element intended to accommodate the larger camera modules of future Galaxy phones.
Samsung's Upcoming Qi2 Battery Bank Revealed
Images, reportedly uncovered by WinFuture, reveal design specifications for an upcoming Samsung Qi2 battery bank. The accessory is described as featuring a plastic or painted metal frame and includes a kickstand. It incorporates a USB-C port on its right side and is expected to be bundled with a color-matched USB-C cable. The power bank is specified to have a 15W output and a 5,000 mAh capacity.
A prominent design feature of the battery bank is a cutout positioned in its top portion.
This design is intended to accommodate the larger camera bumps typically found on Galaxy phones, particularly the upcoming Galaxy S26 series. The purpose of this cutout is to address potential issues of misalignment or camera obstruction that can occur when existing magnetic battery banks are used with Galaxy phones due to the proximity of the Qi charging coil to the camera module.
Conflicting Reports on Galaxy S26 Qi2 Magnet Support
While a December listing had suggested that the new Galaxy S26 smartphones might support native Qi2 magnets, more recent leaks indicate otherwise. Initial reports had pointed towards Samsung integrating Qi2 technology to align with faster wireless charging standards and the development of compatible accessories.
However, a recent leak from Nieuwemobiel displays first-party Samsung cases for the Galaxy S26 series available in both magnetic and non-magnetic variants. The presence of non-magnetic cases suggests that the phones themselves may not feature native Qi2 magnet support. Typically, devices with native Qi2 require magnetic cases to ensure proper adhesion and functionality of magnetic accessories, as standard cases can weaken the magnetic connection.
Samsung has historically utilized official methods for incorporating magnets into phone cases rather than embedding them directly into the devices. The reported absence of native Qi2 magnets is expected to apply across all models in the Galaxy S26 series, including the S26, S26+, and Ultra.
Industry Alignment and Potential User Impact
Native Qi2 magnet support has been a standard feature in iPhones for approximately five years, and Google's Pixel 10 series has also adopted it among Android devices.
The development of Qi2-compatible accessories by Samsung, in conjunction with the reported lack of built-in magnet support in the phones, could necessitate users purchasing specific magnetic cases to ensure accessory functionality.
This situation may lead to customer confusion regarding compatibility and required accessories.