It's been almost a full year since Apple first unveiled its AirPower wireless charging mat — a sleek, white pad that can simultaneously charge your AirPods, Apple Watch Series 3, and iPhone — but we still don't have a release date. Early anticipation quickly turned to frustration, especially among AirPod owners, who eagerly awaited the release of the wireless AirPods charging case Apple teased with the initial AirPower announcement.
According to a report from Bloomberg, complicated circuitry and challenges to prevent overheating are to blame for the delay. However, there's a strong chance that Apple will use tomorrow's big event to finally announce an official launch date for the product, alongside its newest iPhone lineup, Watch, and (possibly) AirPods.
Still, if you're sick of waiting — or don't feel the need to own a charger that powers up three devices at once — there are some good-looking alternatives. While these won't solve for the lack of a wireless AirPods charging case (if that's your main concern, try this Kickstarter fix), it will help you power your devices without tangled cords all over your desk.
Native Union's Qi-compatible charger is sleek, but it doesn't have the same multipurpose-functionality Apple's AirPower promises: Its size means you can only charge one device at a time. However, the built-in protection against overheating and speedy charging (up to 10 W) makes it a powerful alternative to other options on the market. The rose gold silicone tread adds a pretty pop of color and ensures your phone won't slip off mid-charge.
Native Union DROP WIRELESS CHARGER, $59.99, available at Native Union
Courant puts a high fashion spin on wireless charging: The leather-covered Catch:3 features a Qi-certified charger on the left-hand side (compatible with the iPhone 8, 8 Plus, and X as well as Samsung's Galaxy S8, S8 Plus, S9, S9 Plus, and Note 8), and a tray on the right-hand side for keys or other accessories. Consider this a charger you'll actually like seeing on your bedside table or desk.
The recent release is currently available for pre-order and is scheduled to ship mid-October.
Courant Catch:3, $175, available at Courant
Samsung's new take on dual charging includes space for your smartphone (it supports iPhone 8, 8 Plus, and X, in addition to Galaxy models), as well as smartwatch. There's a built in fan to protect against overheating, and while the charger isn't as aesthetically pleasing as those offered by Courant or Native Union, it delivers on functionality and is the most comparable to Apple's AirPower.
Samsung Wireless Charger Duo, White, $119.99, available at Samsung
Like the Native Union charger, Belkin's Qi-compatible wireless charging pad can only power one device at a time. However, its low price makes it one of the more affordable options. A useful LED indicator lets you know when your device is on its way to a full charge.
Belkin BOOST↑UP™ Qi™ Wireless Charging Pad (5W), $39.99, available at Belkin
No plug? No problem. Mophie's wireless charger lets you go completely cord-free on-the-go. Simply turn on the charger, place your iPhone 8, 8 Plus, or X (or another Qi-compatible device) on top, and wait for it to power up.
Mophie Charge Stream Powerstation Wireless XL, $99.95, available at Mophie
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