IDT and Intel Join Forces to Make Wireless Charging Technology a Reality
Intel has selected Integrated Device Technology (IDT) to develop an integrated transmitter and receiver chipset for the company's Wireless Charging Technology (WCT) based on magnetic resonance technology, it was announced today. In other words, WCT is one step closer to becoming a reality, which is exciting news whether you're hardcore geek or just a fan of gadgets.
Yes, there are wireless charging platforms out there, but as Intel's Dan Snyder explains in his blog post, WCT isn't limited to inductive charging. You won't need to plop your smartphone or other gear on a special charging mat, but you will be able to wirelessly charge your devices from your notebook. No cables, no power cords, no fuss. In addition, magnetic resonance charging is significantly more efficient than previous inductive technologies pioneered for wireless charging and it produces less heat build up in the process.
Image Source: Integrated Device Technologies, Inc.
"Imagine, for example, this wireless charging solution in an Ultrabook of the future. How would it work? You are low on juice on your phone — you simply start the WCT detection software and place the smartphone close to your Ultrabook (about an inch or so)," Intel explains. "Coupling takes place between the two devices and energy begins to seamlessly and wirelessly flow from the Ultrabook to the smartphone. Within an hour, you have recharged your smartphone sufficiently to make it through the afternoon. No more wires or chargers."
This technology won't just be limited to smartphones, either.
"We think the ability to have a wire-free charging experience with a broad ecosystem of devices like keyboards, mice, storage devices, cameras and smartphones will be realized in the near future," said Gary Huang, director of PC Growth and Innovation at Intel.
IDT's role is to set the bar for size and cost reduction, while also simplifying product development and integration. The company will build validated reference designs for OEMs to employ in their Ultrabooks, all-in-one (AIO) PCs, smartphones, and even standalone chargers, IDT said.
Intel didn't say when WCT will appear in shipping products, but promised to update plans and timelines at a later date.
Yes, there are wireless charging platforms out there, but as Intel's Dan Snyder explains in his blog post, WCT isn't limited to inductive charging. You won't need to plop your smartphone or other gear on a special charging mat, but you will be able to wirelessly charge your devices from your notebook. No cables, no power cords, no fuss. In addition, magnetic resonance charging is significantly more efficient than previous inductive technologies pioneered for wireless charging and it produces less heat build up in the process.
Image Source: Integrated Device Technologies, Inc.
This technology won't just be limited to smartphones, either.
"We think the ability to have a wire-free charging experience with a broad ecosystem of devices like keyboards, mice, storage devices, cameras and smartphones will be realized in the near future," said Gary Huang, director of PC Growth and Innovation at Intel.
IDT's role is to set the bar for size and cost reduction, while also simplifying product development and integration. The company will build validated reference designs for OEMs to employ in their Ultrabooks, all-in-one (AIO) PCs, smartphones, and even standalone chargers, IDT said.
Intel didn't say when WCT will appear in shipping products, but promised to update plans and timelines at a later date.
