The Samsung Galaxy S4 will likely have wireless charging capabilities, but customers may need to buy the necessary hardware separately from the phone, according to unnamed sources quoted by DigiTimes.
"Samsung is expected to adopt Qi wireless charging technology run by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) for its next flagship model, the Galaxy S IV, the sources indicated."
"However, the Galaxy S IV may not come with embedded wireless charging capability. Instead, users are required to buy replacement back covers for their smartphone for access to a charging pad, the sources indicated."
This isn't the first time we've heard that the Galaxy S IV could have wireless charging hardware, so that part isn't a shock, but if the gear isn't included, does it even really count? You can buy wireless charging kits for phones like the Galaxy S III right now.
The S IV's charger should be seamlessly integrated, though, not a third-party addendum. And some reports speculate the wireless charging is being left out to keep the Galaxy S IV's profile slim and the cost low. Samsung has already confirmed that the Galaxy S IV will have a plastic body, since that is easier and cheaper to manufacture in large quantities than metal or glass enclosures.
No matter how the Galaxy S IV charges, adoption of the tech by Samsung should bolster efforts to work toward a universal standard for wireless chargers, though that effort could be thwarted by Apple, which has a history of developing its own proprietary technologies.
Instead of the micro-USB connectors used by Android and most other phones, iPhones now use the Lightning connector, a more that ensures accessories can't be used on more than one platform.
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