Introduction
The concept of wireless charging has been around for a while, but it seems like we’re still waiting for a mainstream breakthrough. Remember the Apple AirPower charging mat? Announced in 2017, the device was supposed to recharge three devices simultaneously, but Apple never released it, citing engineering issues. Now, Tesla is giving it another shot with the just-announced Wireless Charging Platform.
The Technology Behind the Wireless Charging Platform
Inside the Cybertruck-inspired aluminum casing is a wireless charging platform named FreePower from a startup called Aira. This is the same platform used in other multi-device charging mats like the Nomad Base Station Pro. This technology provides up to 15W of fast charging for up to three devices. Allegedly, users can just toss their devices on the Alcantara surface, and no matter where they land, they’ll get recharged.
The Cost of Convenience
This convenience doesn’t come cheap; the Wireless Charging Platform costs $300. But for those who value the convenience of wireless charging, it might be worth considering.
About Aira: The Company Behind FreePower
Aira, the company that developed the recharging platform, was founded in 2017 and has since raised $16 million to date. Its latest fundraising came by way of angel investors in 2019, primarily led by private investors, including Jawad Ahsan, Lori Greiner, and Robert Herjavec. At the time, the company said the funding was going to be used to reach beyond the consumer market, and allow the company to expand into enterprise, automotive, and hospitality.
The Potential of Wireless Charging in Various Industries
Wireless charging has a lot of potential across various industries, including:
- Consumer Electronics: Wireless charging mats like the one announced by Tesla can revolutionize the way we charge our devices. No more tangled cords or lost chargers.
- Healthcare: Wireless charging can be particularly useful in healthcare settings where patients may need to move around while being charged.
- Automotive: Wireless charging can make electric vehicles (EVs) even more convenient to use.
The Market for Wireless Charging Platforms
The market for wireless charging platforms is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. According to a report by MarketsandMarkets, the global wireless charging market size is projected to reach $27.4 billion by 2025.
Conclusion
Tesla’s Wireless Charging Platform is an exciting development in the world of wireless charging. With its ability to charge up to three devices at once and provide fast charging speeds, it has the potential to revolutionize the way we charge our devices. However, the high price point may be a barrier for some users.
References
- "Tesla Unveils Wireless Charging Platform." TechCrunch.
- "Aira Raises $16 Million in Funding to Expand its Wireless Charging Technology." Aira’s Website.
- "Global Wireless Charging Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report by Component (Transmitter, Receiver), By Application (Consumer Electronics, Healthcare), By End-use Industry (Automotive, Industrial), Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2022 – 2025." MarketsandMarkets.
