Apple’s upcoming iPhone 16 lineup could see a significant boost in charging speeds, potentially doubling the current fast-charging capability to 40W when using a compatible power adapter, according to a recent rumor.
While late-model iPhones are already pretty fast chargers, twice as fast is a serious improvement.
Upcoming iPhone 16 lineup could double fast-charging speeds
Li Nan, founder of the Weibo-based Angry Miao community, says Apple plans to increase the charging potential for the iPhone 16 lineup, as ITHome reported. That suggests a substantial upgrade from the current generation’s capabilities, possibly resulting in twice as fast charging.
ITHome has a mixed track record on feature predictions. It hit the nail on the head with widespread adoption of the 48MP camera in the iPhone 15 lineup. However, its rumormongering typically proves more reliable when it involves supply chain information rather than upcoming features.
Up to double the charging speed
For context, the iPhone 15 series can achieve a 50% charge in about 30 minutes using a 20W or higher adapter. While higher-wattage chargers are compatible, they don’t offer much improvement over the 20W standard.
If the rumored 40W charging becomes a reality, iPhone 16 users could potentially see their devices reach 50% battery capacity in roughly 15 minutes — about half the current time. Of course, it’s worth noting that fast charging is most effective when the battery is depleted. And it typically slows down as the battery fills up.
Also, note that this upgrade would not affect wireless charging, which remains limited to 15W for iPhones using MagSafe and Qi2 chargers and 7.5W for iPhones using non-MagSafe/Qi2 chargers.
Faster iPhone 16 charging: Is speedier always better?
If true, the rumor raises questions about potential trade-offs. Higher wattage charging can generate more heat. That might impact battery longevity and other iPhone 16 elements. Apple would need to balance those factors in an upgrade like this.
As with all prerelease iPhone rumors, we’ll have to see what Apple confirms. The company undoubtedly will unveil its iPhone 16 lineup this fall.
