Apple to Partner with Broadcom on Wireless Charging Chip: JPMorgan

Apple is reportedly working Broadcom to design a custom wireless charging chip that will be used in future iPhones. However, the silicon may not be ready for this year’s “iPhone 8” model.

According to a report by CNBC, J.P. Morgan analyst Harlan Sur published a research note on Friday which reveals that Apple and Broadcom have been developing the next-generation wireless charging solution for the last two years.

Despite the significant partnership time period, the team’s charging technology might not be ready for a new iPhone which is refresh expected to debut this fall. In particular, Sur believes Apple might delay integration due to concerns related to the recent Samsung Galaxy Note 7 incident. In the report, Sur wrote:

“We believe the glass back cover is conducive to wireless charging as it reduces signal interference versus a metal casing. It is possible for Apple to add proprietary features such as fast charging or extended charging to differentiate itself from the pack and enhance the value of its own hardware ecosystem.”

The report is in line with predictions from well-connected KGI analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Earlier this month, Kuo elaborated on a long-held belief that Apple plans to incorporate wireless charging into its upcoming “iPhone 8” handset. Kuo believes that the handset’s all-glass chassis will make use of a special graphite layer to dissipate resulting heat.

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