Since Apple’s AirPower wireless charger has been delayed again (some folks are saying it’s delayed forever), it’s time to look at other options. And there are lots of ‘em out there.
One inexpensive one is CANDI. Only $29.99, it offers up to 10W output for express charging on Qi compatible devices, which includes the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone X, iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max all support wireless charging using the Qi standard. (However, their wireless charging is limited to 7.5 watts.)
The Candi is small enough to double as a simple stand; or you can toss it in a backpack or purse to take with you on-the-go. Just place your iPhone on it, and charging starts immediately. An LED Indicator provides an automatic turn off.
The CANDI boasts a non-slip surface to keep your iPhone safely in place. And it will work with most non-metal phone cases.
For optimal charging, you should power the CANDI using a Qualcomm 3.0 fast charge adapter, or your phone’s original adapter, You can also use an adapter or USB port with an output of at least 5V 2A power. Anything less than 5V 2A may cause charging errors.
The CANDI is available in black, blue, and pink (I prefer the black). Its angular design is quite stylish and allows you to charge your iPhone in landscape mode, which is handy for watching a movie while it’s juicing up.
The CANDI isn’t the fastest charger in the world (it took about 30 minutes for my iPhone XS Mac to get 20% of juice) and it can’t charge multiple devices at once, as the AirPower was promised to do. However, the Candi is here now, and we’re still waiting to see if Apple’s wireless charger will materialize or will be as rare as Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster.
Apple World Today Rating (out of 5 stars): ★★★★