Samsung is preparing to introduce integrated magnets in the Galaxy S26 series, following a trend already consolidated by Apple with MagSafe and now standardized through the Qi2 protocol. The implementation would allow smartphones to attach directly to magnetic accessories without the need for specific cases, but the practical impact for most users may be more limited than you think. The real innovation lies in the adoption of the standard Qi2.2which promises significantly faster wireless charging speeds than the current generation.
The critical point of the whole issue is represented by the use of protective covers. The moment you place your smartphone in a case, the magnets integrated into the device lose their direct functionalityunless the cover itself incorporates compatible magnetic elements. This solution is already widely available on the market: cases enabled for magnetic accessories have existed for some time and offer a user experience substantially identical to that guaranteed by the phone’s native magnets.
Lo standard Qi2the successor to traditional Qi, is not primarily focused on increasing charging speed, but rather on optimizing the alignment between device and charger. The magnets ensure precise and constant positioning, reducing thermal inefficiencies and improving the stability of the wireless connection. For smartphones without integrated magnets, a quality magnetic cover effectively replicates these benefits, bridging the technology gap at low cost.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra should reach 25W of wireless charging, while the S26 and S26+ would stop at 20W
The real technological evolution comes with the Qi2.2a new generation standard that exceeds the 15W limit imposed by previous implementations. According to rumors, the Galaxy S26 Ultra it could go up to 25W of wireless power, while the S26 and S26+ models would be around 20W. This is an update long awaited by the tech community, considering that Samsung has lagged behind some Chinese competitors who already offer 50W or higher wireless charging.
The speed increase comes directly from the Qi2.2 protocol specifications and by the capacity of the charging management circuits, not by the physical presence of the magnets. The latter facilitate alignment and improve the efficiency of energy transfer, but do not determine the maximum power output. The distinction is important to understand where the actual performance leap lies.
For those who already use flagship devices from the Galaxy range launched in 2025, the magnetic accessory ecosystem is fully accessible through compatible cases. The concrete advantage of integrated magnets manifests itself exclusively for users who prefer to use the smartphone without protection, a legitimate but statistically minority choice considering the repair costs and value of modern flagship devices.
From an engineering point of view, integrating permanent magnets into the frame poses significant design challenges: potential interference with digital compass and magnetic sensors, increase in the thickness or weight of the device, management of the internal space already contested between the battery, cooling system and photographic components. Samsung will have to balance these compromises while maintaining the small dimensions that characterize current designs.
The adoption of integrated magnets however, it represents a step towards the standardization of the accessories ecosystemfacilitating cross-brand compatibility and reducing market fragmentation. With the expansion of Qi2 and the arrival of Qi2.2, magnetic chargers, car holders and power banks will become more and more universal, regardless of the smartphone manufacturer. Implementation by Samsung, the world’s second largest smartphone manufacturer, would significantly accelerate this industrial transition.
