July 24, 2025
Tech News
The Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) recently announced the launch of faster Qi2 25W wireless charging, set to enhance charging speeds for iPhones and select Android smartphones. With many devices lining up for certification, this marks a significant upgrade from the previous 15W limit.
Excitingly, the WPC has confirmed that iPhones will support the new Qi2 25W standard, although specific models have not been disclosed. Current iPhone 16 models offer 15W speeds and 25W via MagSafe, raising hopes that these might be updated for the new technology.
In addition to Apple, several “major Android smartphones” are expected to adopt the Qi2 standard, although precise details remain scarce. So far, only the HMD Skyline fully supports Qi2, while a few Samsung models are labeled “Qi2 Ready,” lacking the magnetic technology needed for maximum charging speeds.
In another exciting development, Maingear announced the Retro95, a unique PC that fuses nostalgic ’90s design with modern specs. This prebuilt desktop features the latest technology, including AMD’s Ryzen 7 9800X3D, an RTX 5080, and up to 8TB of NVMe storage, all nestled inside a charming beige case reminiscent of early computing days.
This Retro95 combines aesthetics from the past with high-performance components, catering to those who miss the era of floppy disks and CRT monitors. Although it gives the appearance of traditional floppy drives, modern functionality is preserved with a DVD-R drive and essential USB ports cleverly integrated into its design.
TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 is enhancing its offerings with a new Going Public Stage, aimed at guiding founders through the complexities of building their companies. Featuring industry leaders like Eric Yuan of Zoom, this stage will provide insights on scaling businesses and navigating the path to public markets.
Disrupt’s agenda includes discussions on essential topics, such as the changes faced by startups in today’s financial climate. Top VCs and seasoned entrepreneurs will share strategies on everything from exit planning to adopting AI in go-to-market strategies, making it a must-attend for ambitious founders and startups.
Tech Explained
Qi – Qi is a wireless charging standard developed to facilitate efficient energy transfer over short distances. It utilizes magnetic induction to power devices without physical connectors, allowing for more versatile and convenient charging solutions.
Android – Android is an open-source operating system based on the Linux kernel, designed primarily for touchscreen mobile devices like smartphones and tablets. It offers a platform for app development and a customizable user interface, allowing for a diverse ecosystem of devices.
NVMe – NVMe, or Non-Volatile Memory Express, is a protocol designed to access high-speed storage media. It optimizes the performance of SSDs over traditional interfaces, delivering fast data transfer rates, lower latency, and greater input/output (I/O) operations per second.
IPO – An initial public offering (IPO) is the process through which a private company offers its shares to the public for the first time. This transition helps companies raise capital to grow, while also allowing early investors to realize returns on their investments.
Go-to-market strategy – A go-to-market strategy outlines how a company will reach target customers and achieve competitive advantage in the market. This includes marketing, sales strategies, and distribution methods, focusing on effectively delivering a product or service to consumers.
