The absence of built-in Qi2 magnets in Samsung's new Galaxy S26 series has drawn attention, particularly concerning the device's charging capabilities. Samsung attributes this decision to its focus on producing thinner and lighter designs, which they claim is part of their engineering strategy. While the models support Qi2-compatible cases, users must purchase these separately to utilize the enhanced wireless charging speeds introduced in the Galaxy S26+ and Galaxy S26 Ultra.
Without integrated magnets, customers will struggle to benefit from the 25W charging speed, as the current Qi specification requires magnetic alignment for such rates. This limitation raises questions about user experience, as Samsung's first-party chargers also rely on magnetic alignment, complicating the charging process for those without compatible cases. The shift to "Qi2 Ready" has effectively offloaded the responsibility of magnetic alignment to third-party cases, which may not always include this feature, leading to inconsistency in user experience.
Despite the advancements in design, the reliance on external cases for optimal functionality may hinder the overall appeal of the Galaxy S26 series, as consumers weigh the benefits of sleekness against the practicalities of charging efficiency.