Long-range wireless charging enables devices to charge several feet or meters using radio frequency (RF) systems and resonant inductive coupling. This technology offers convenience by eliminating cables, enhances safety, and reduces clutter.
Long-range wireless charging has applications in consumer electronics, medical devices, and automotive sectors. Ongoing advancements promise significant market growth, particularly in industrial automation, where remote charging can improve efficiency and safety. According to BIS Research, the long-range wireless charging market is projected to reach $3.27 billion by 2035.
This article explains the top 5 popular developments driving the $130 million long-range wireless charging market.
1. Aalto University's Breakthrough in Long-Distance Charging Efficiency
Researchers at Aalto University have developed a new wireless charging technique that significantly increases efficiency over longer distances, making open-air charging more practical.
The engineers balance power transfer with radiation loss by using a system with two loop antennas, each about 7.2 cm wide. This adjustment increased the efficiency of wireless power transfer to over 80%, even at a distance.
This breakthrough could enable future devices to charge wirelessly without needing to be placed on a pad. This innovation has potential applications in various fields, including biomedical implants and consumer electronics.
2. FCC Approval of WattUp Long-Range Wireless Charging
Energous Corporation has received U.S. FCC approval for its WattUp, 900MHz 1W Active Energy Harvesting transmitter technology, allowing unlimited wireless charging distance. This complements an earlier European approval, enabling wireless power solutions for IoT devices to expand.
The technology supports simultaneous charging of multiple devices at any distance, enhancing IoT deployment in sectors like retail, industrial, and smart homes.
This development is expected to accelerate the adoption of battery-less BLE beacons and improve the range of IoT sensors.
3. Xiaomi's Mi Air Charge Technology
Xiaomi introduced "Mi Air Charge Technology," a wireless charging system capable of charging devices within a radius of several meters at 5W, even with physical obstacles. It can charge multiple devices simultaneously, including smartwatches and fitness bracelets, and aims to power smart home devices like speakers and lamps remotely.
The technology uses space positioning and energy transmission, with a charging pile containing phase interference antennas to locate devices and beamform millimeter waves to them.
4. Powercast's Demonstrations at CES 2024
Powercast showcased its broad applications of wireless power at CES 2024, highlighting solutions that range from short to long distances and varying power levels. This demonstration included systems capable of charging various devices, emphasizing the versatility and potential of wireless power technology in different scenarios, from consumer electronics to industrial applications.
In 2023, Powercast collaborated with Nichicon to integrate radio frequency (RF) charging into Nichicon's new minor lithium titanate oxide rechargeable batteries. This partnership aims to create compact, eco-friendly devices that reduce e-waste and maintenance costs.
Combining Powercast's RF wireless charging with Nichicon's batteries enables over-the-air charging for small devices such as styluses, wireless thermometers, medical devices, and IoT sensors.
Moreover, Powercast and Powermat joined forces to offer comprehensive wireless power solutions. This collaboration leverages Powercast's RF expertise and Powermat's SmartInductive technology to provide short- and long-range wireless power solutions.
5. DARPA's Long-Range Wireless Charging for Military Vehicles
DARPA is advancing far-field wireless power transfer technology to enable mid-flight drone charging, led by Dr. Ifana Mahbub from the University of Texas. This project uses phased-array antennas to direct electromagnetic beams, minimizing power loss over long distances and enhancing drone efficiency and mission capability. Potential applications extend beyond drones, including wireless charging for electric vehicles and medical implants.
In parallel, DARPA is developing the POWER (Persistent Optical Wireless Energy Relay) system, which aims to wirelessly transmit 10 kW of electrical power over 200 km using lasers.
This system targets military applications, such as powering aircraft and vehicles from great distances, potentially eliminating the need for mid-air refueling. The POWER system overcomes the limitations of traditional wireless charging, which relies on proximity and low power transfer, by using lasers to ensure continuous operation if there is a line of sight.
A key challenge is maintaining this line of sight to minimize energy loss, which DARPA plans to address with a network of relays in the upper atmosphere. This technology also has potential civilian applications, like space-based solar power stations transmitting energy to Earth.
The Road Ahead
The future of the long-range wireless charging market looks promising, driven by advancements in technology and increasing demand for convenient, cable-free power solutions.
Innovations in resonance and RF-based charging are extending the effective range, making it feasible for applications in consumer electronics, electric vehicles, and IoT devices. Integration with smart home ecosystems and public infrastructure is expected to accelerate adoption.
As standards evolve and efficiency improves, the market is poised for significant growth. Key players are investing in R&D to enhance power transfer efficiency and safety, making long-range wireless charging a cornerstone of the next generation of connected, smart devices.
About the Publisher: BIS Research is a global market intelligence, research and advisory company that focuses on emerging technology trends that are likely to disrupt the market. Its team includes industry veterans, experts, and analysts with diverse backgrounds in consulting, investment banking, government, and academia.
