Google has announced the Pixel 10 phones and one of the big upgrades is the introduction of Qi2 magnetic wireless charging, so that begs the question: do the Pixel 10 phones support MagSafe?
The simple answer is yes, but it’s not simple and there are various things to be aware of when using a MagSafe product with a Pixel 10 phone.
MagSafe vs Qi2: What’s the difference?
First, let’s tackle the slightly complicated situation of MagSafe and Qi2 as they are the sort of both the same and different – it will help you understand the situation.
MagSafe is Apple’s own brand name for its magnetic chargers and other accessories for the iPhone, which is also licensed to third-party accessory makers.
However, the most recent MagSafe charger from Apple is Qi2 certified and the firm is a key part of the Wireless Power Consortium, which sets the standard for Qi2.
This is somewhat confusing because Qi2 is the wider, open standard of the technology, which other companies can use.
So, MagSafe is technically Qi2, but you’ll also find products that are Qi2 but not branded as MagSafe. Make sense?
Does the Pixel 10 support MagSafe?
Onto the main question, then and yes, while the new Google phones have Qi2 built in (no need to add a case to gain the magnets), they still support MagSafe.
Since MagSafe and Qi2 are so closely related, it’s essentially not possible to avoid compatibility. They are magnets that can’t be turned off, after all.
This is why Google is able to say that the Pixel 10 is already compatible with “thousands” of accessories.
Google has confirmed with Tech Advisor that “Yes, Apple MagSafe chargers are compatible with the Pixel 10 series phones.”
However, snapping a MagSafe charger onto your Pixel 10 might seem all well and good at face value, but you might not get the best experience.
Anyron Copeman / Foundry
Anyone using one of the original Apple MagSafe chargers from 2020 with a Pixel 10 will see snail-paced charging at just 5W.
Get the more recent 2024 MagSafe charger and you’ll see charging at 15W. That’s the maximum for three of the Pixel 10 phones, but the Pixel 10 Pro XL is the only Qi2.2 certified model, so can reach 25W.
Apple rates the charger at Qi2 25W for the iPhone 16 phones, but you won’t see it go that fast on an XL.
This is likely to be the same with third-party MagSafe chargers, too. And you should be wary when buying other MagSafe accessories, such as grips and wallets for the Pixel 10. They might work but there’s no guarantee, especially if you want to use one over the top of a case.
Google’s Pixelsnap accessories, as well as certified accessories for the Pixel 10 phones, are your only way to be sure you’re getting devices that work and charge at the maximum speeds.
The Pixelsnap range, at launch, consists of cases, a Pixelsnap Ring Stand, Pixelsnap Charger and a Pixelsnap Modular Stand.
