Tesla today announced the launch of the Tesla Wireless Charging Platform, a $300 wireless charger that can charge up to three Qi devices simultaneously.
The concept is similar to the AirPower that Apple wanted to produce, as the three devices can be placed anywhere on the Tesla charging mat and receive up to 15W of power each. Tesla says the charging mat's angular design was inspired by the look of the Cybertruck. It features an aluminum body with an Alcantara finish and a removable magnetic stand that can be used for flat or angled charging. In the product description is it [called:
Inspired by the Cybertruck's angular design and metallic styling, our wireless charging platform delivers 15W of fast charging power per device for up to three devices simultaneously. The sleek design features an aluminum body, premium Alcantara finish, and a removable magnetic stand that lets you place the charging station flat or angle it for a better view. FreePower(R) technology charges your Qi-enabled devices, such as phones or earbuds, that you place on the surface without any precise alignment.
In September 2017, Apple announced the AirPower, a multi-device charging station that could charge the iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods simultaneously. Apple wanted users to be able to place their devices anywhere on the AirPower to charge them, but the overlapping wireless coils required to do so were problematic: Apple saw thermal management and interference issues that prevented the product from being viable.
New Tesla charging station uses FreePower
The AirPower was supposed to launch in 2018 but was never completed. Apple confirmed in 2019 that it is no longer being produced. Tesla's charging mat uses FreePower, a technology from Aira that is already used in other wireless charging platforms such as Nomad's Base Station Pro. Nomad's Base Station Pro also supported charging from anywhere on the charging platform but proved problematic as it did not work with the iPhone 12 and newer due to a firmware issue. While Tesla's concept is similar to what Apple wanted to achieve with the AirPower, it is limited to Qi-based devices such as the iPhone and AirPods and does not charge the Apple Watch. (Image: Tesla)
