How to Enable Wireless Charging on iPhone?

Most contemporary smartphones currently have wireless charging as a standard feature, and Apple has made the process extremely user-friendly. In case you are asking yourself how to enable wireless charging on iPhone, the pleasant news is that you do not need any special settings or some hidden menus. Since the iPhone 8 model, Apple has integrated wireless charging via Qi, so that all you need to do to charge your phone is to sit it on a charger made by the same company. 

This step-by-step guide is going to explain which iPhones are compatible with wireless charging, accessories required, how to install it correctly and what to do in the event that your iPhone does not charge wirelessly. We will also discuss the MagSafe technology, Qi2 development, and the most appropriate tips to charge faster and safely.

Which iPhones Support Wireless Charging

Wireless charging was introduced with the iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus, and has since been added to all models. The iPhone 8 to iPhone 16 lineup is compatible with wireless charging using the Qi standard. 

The iPhone 12 series and newer  goes a step further with MagSafe technology, which has magnets that align your iPhone perfectly with the charger allowing it to charge faster and more reliably. Smaller iPhones such as the iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation) also have Qi wireless charging, but no MagSafe magnets are included. 

To check if your model is compatible with wireless charging, you can go to Settings General About Model Name and make sure that it does.

What You Need to Enable Wireless Charging

Wireless charging on iPhone is automatic – however, it requires the proper equipment. Let’s look at the essentials.

Wireless Chargers: Qi vs. MagSafe

Wireless chargers are available in two types. 

Qi chargers are universal and compatible with every iPhone that can be charged wirelessly. They are flat charge pads whereby your phone must be placed in the right orientation to initiate the charging process. 

Instead, MagSafe chargers were launched with the iPhone 12 series. Their magnets help in attaching to the back of your phone so that it fits in place. MagSafe is also capable of faster charging — 15W instead of 510W common on Qi pads.

Power Adapter Requirements

To charge wirelessly, you should have a good power adapter. Apple suggests 20W or more USB-C adapter as the maximum successful use of MagSafe. A low-wattage adapter may slow the charging process or interrupt it every time. 

In case you have a third party Qi charger, it is essential to examine the specifications of that manufacturer. The vast majority of Qi pads are compatible with adapters with a rating of 10W to 15W.

Case Compatibility and Accessories

Wireless signals are blocked by thick or metallic cases, and your iPhone is not able to charge. Always make sure your case is non metallic, thin and preferably MagSafe compatible. 

Do not have any metal plates, magnets, pop sockets, or wallets during the wireless charging process, as they disorient the transfer of power through the coil.

Step-by-Step: How to Enable Wireless Charging on iPhone

The iPhones do not have a special switch to turn wireless charging on or off like certain Android-based devices. The feature is always active. All you have to do is these few steps.

Step 1: Connect the Charger to Power

Insert your Qi or MagSafe charger into a power adapter and plug it into a wall outlet. Allow the charger to initialize after several seconds. The MagSafe chargers will occasionally show a short animation upon readiness.

Step 2: Place Your iPhone on the Charger

Place your iPhone on the charging table. When you have a MagSafe charger, it will automatically fit in the embedded magnets and will attach itself. In the case of Qi pads, make sure that your iPhone is centrally positioned to make sure the charging coils are correctly aligned.

Step 3: Confirm Charging

When the charge is connected, you ought to see the charging icon at the top of your iPhone screen or Lock Screen, a lightning bolt within the battery. This assures that the phone is charging. You may also check the Battery Widget to view real-time battery charging status.

Step 4: Adjust If Needed

When your iPhone is not charging immediately, just adjust it a little until it connects. It is also possible that you will be required to take off thick cases or metal accessories. When the icon appears, you are set to go, wireless charging is now enabled.

Troubleshooting Common Wireless Charging Problems

Although wireless charging is an easy process, minor problems can halt its proper operation. Knowing such issues assists you in rectifying them in a short period.

iPhone Not Charging Wirelessly

When your iPhone is not charging on the pad, ensure that your charger is plugged into a power source. Take all the accessories off the back of your phone, and re-align it. A reboot of your iPhone can also fix small software bugs that can cause charging detection.

Slow Charging Speed

Wireless charging tends to be slower than a Lightning or USB-C cable. But when it seems slower than usual, a poor power adapter, bad cable or a poor fit could be the reason. Charging speed is greatly enhanced with the help of an official MagSafe charger and an Apple-recommended adapter. 

Store your iPhone in a cool place because high temperatures automatically slow the speed of charging the battery to preserve it.

Overheating During Charging

Your iPhone or charger may be slightly warm, but it should not get hot. When it does, turn off charging, take your phone off the pad, and leave it to cool. Do not charge on a soft surface such as a bed or a couch where the heat is confined. Always recharge where there is good ventilation.

Understanding MagSafe vs. Qi Charging

The MagSafe technology of Apple has several benefits over normal Qi wireless charging.

MagSafe Charging

To perfectly fit with the charging coil of your iPhone, MagSafe chargers make use of built-in magnets. This guarantees stable power supply and speed up to 15W. Accidental disconnects and slips are also avoided by the magnetic connection.

Qi Charging

Qi chargers have a more universal design and can be used with all devices that have the Qi standard, and not only iPhones. But they depend on accuracy of placement – when your phone is not centered, charging can be irregular or cease altogether. Qi chargers are relatively cheaper and have lower charging speeds than MagSafe.

The Future of Wireless Charging: Qi2 Technology

The field of wireless charging is developing fast, and the most recent one is Qi2 – an improved standard that was inspired by Apple and MagSafe. 

The Qi2 chargers have magnetic alignment so that your phone is locked in the best position automatically. This eliminates energy wastage, less heat production, and facilitates quicker charging rates. 

Because of the numerous additions of new accessories in 2025 that already support Qi2, it is a smart future purchase in case you want to be compatible with future iPhones.

Choosing the Right Charger for Your iPhone

You should also choose certified and safe wireless chargers.

MagSafe Chargers for iPhone 12 and Newer

The official MagSafe Charger is the most reliable when it comes to iPhones that operate on MagSafe. It provides stable speed and magnetism accuracy.

Qi Chargers for Older iPhones

In case you possess an iPhone 8, X, or 11, a  Qi-certified charging pad  is a perfect fit. It is cheap, compatible and is common.

Multi-Device Wireless Docks

Due to the popularity of Apple products, 3-in-1 wireless docks provide you with the ability to charge your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods at the same time, ideal in minimal configurations.

Conclusion

It is easy to know how to enable wireless charging on iPhone, which simplifies life. It has no complicated devices, no switches, and no applications, just pop your iPhone on a Qi or MagSafe charger and it will charge. 

To experience the maximum, buy a MagSafe or Qi2-certified charger, a proper power adapter and do not wear a thick and metal cover. Not only does wireless charging help keep your workspace free, it also helps lengthen the life of your charging port. 

With Apple still developing its MagSafe and Qi2 technology, the future of charging is indeed wireless – and painless.

FAQs How to Enable Wireless Charging on iPhone