Google Pixel 10 to adopt magnetic charging and standby-style mode from iPhone

Google is preparing the Pixel 10 smartphone series, which, despite a design similar to its predecessors, will feature major internal upgrades. Among the key innovations are support for Qi 2.2 wireless charging with magnets and a new Hub Mode — a counterpart to Apple’s StandBy. According to insider information reported by GSMArena, here’s how Google is borrowing from Apple’s playbook, what else is coming to Pixel 10, and what it means for users.

Magnetic Qi 2.2 Charging and the Pixelsnap Ecosystem

For the first time, Google is integrating Qi 2.2 — a wireless charging standard with magnetic alignment inspired by Apple’s MagSafe — into its smartphones. Magnets embedded in the Pixel 10 body ensure precise alignment on chargers and support for magnetic accessories.

Pixelsnap Ecosystem:

• Google has trademarked the name “Pixelsnap” for a lineup of magnetic accessories, emphasizing their ability to “snap” onto the phone.
• At launch, three accessories are expected:
• Pixelsnap Charger: A magnetic wireless charger similar to Apple’s MagSafe puck.
• Pixelsnap Charger with Stand: A charger with a built-in stand for convenient phone placement.
• Pixelsnap Ring Stand: A non-charging stand accessory to hold the phone in landscape orientation.
• These accessories will be compatible with all Qi2-supported chargers, but optimized for the Pixel 10.

Technical Details:

• Charging is powered by the ConvenientPower CPS4041 chip, which supports up to 60W. However, Google is expected to limit charging speeds to between 25–45W, similar to the Pixel 9 Pro XL (37W).
• The STN4 charger will come in two colors: Rock Candy (black) and Mist (white).

Benefits:

• More reliable connections thanks to magnetic alignment, reducing energy loss.
• Compatibility with magnetic cases, wallets, and tripods — similar to MagSafe.

Drawback: Unlike HMD Skyline, currently the only Android phone with native Qi 2, the Pixel 10 may require a magnetic case for optimal charging, similar to the OnePlus 13.

Context: Apple contributed its MagSafe technology to the Wireless Power Consortium in 2023, but Android manufacturers have been slow to adopt it. The Pixel 10 will be among the first flagship Android phones with full Qi 2.2 support, ahead of the Samsung Galaxy S25, which only supports Qi 2 without magnets.

Hub Mode — Google’s Answer to Apple’s StandBy

Google is developing Hub Mode for the Pixel 10, which transforms the device into a smart display while charging — much like StandBy in iOS 17. The feature activates when the phone is charging in landscape mode on a Qi2 charger.

How Hub Mode Works:

• Displays clocks, weather, notifications, widgets, or photos in full-screen view.
• Supports lock screen widgets coming with Android 16 QPR1 (expected winter 2025).
• Integrates with Google Home for smart home controls (e.g., lights, thermostat).

Similarities to StandBy:

• iPhones in StandBy mode show widgets, clocks, or photos and automatically switch to a red-tinted night mode.
• Hub Mode is expected to offer more customization, including widget choices similar to the StandBy Mode Pro app for Android.

Advantages:

• Turns the phone into a convenient desk or bedside smart display.
• Works with Pixelsnap chargers and any Qi2-compatible charger.

Drawback: Hub Mode requires landscape orientation, necessitating a stand or a ring-equipped case. Without magnets (if charging through a case), convenience may decrease.

Context: Google has previously tested similar functionality on the Pixel Tablet, which turns into a smart display when docked. Expanding this to smartphones is a logical next step given the rise in magnetic charging solutions.

Other Pixel 10 Upgrades

Beyond Qi 2.2 and Hub Mode, the Pixel 10 series will include significant hardware and software improvements:

Tensor G5 Chip:

• Manufactured by TSMC on a 3nm process (not Samsung), offering:
• ~30% performance increase over Tensor G4.
• ~20% reduction in power consumption, improving battery life.
• Enhanced AI capabilities including Gemini Nano and Audio Magic Eraser.

Cameras:

• 50 MP main sensor, 48 MP ultra-wide, and 48 MP periscope (5x zoom).
• 42 MP front camera with autofocus.
• Improved stabilization comparable to a gyroscope for smoother video.

Display:

• 6.3" QHD+ OLED, 120 Hz, LTPO, up to 3000 nits (Pixel 10 Pro).
• Flat screen for better ergonomics.

Battery and Charging:

• 4700 mAh battery, 45W wired and 25W wireless charging.
• Up to 1.5 days of use with moderate usage.

Memory:

• 16 GB RAM and up to 1 TB storage (UFS 4.0).
• Performance rivaling the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra.

Software:

• Ships with Android 16, with 7 years of updates (through 2032).

Expected Announcement Date: August 20, 2025, at the Made by Google event. Pre-orders begin the same day, with retail availability starting August 28.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Qi 2.2 with magnets enhances convenience and expands accessory ecosystem.
• Hub Mode turns the phone into a smart display, rivaling Apple’s StandBy.
• Tensor G5 delivers significant improvements in performance and battery life.
• High-end cameras with advanced stabilization.
• Long software support with clean Android 16.

Cons:

• May require a case for magnetic charging to work properly.
• Charging speeds likely capped below the chip’s full 60W capability.
• High price expected (~₽100,000 for Pixel 10 Pro).
• Design changes are minimal compared to Pixel 9.

Comparison with Competitors

iPhone 16 Pro:

• Features MagSafe (15W), StandBy (iOS 17), and A18 chip.
• Pixel 10 offers more Hub Mode customization and longer update support but lacks Apple’s robust accessory ecosystem.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra:

• Supports Qi 2 without magnets, 45W charging, and One UI 7.
• Pixel 10 leads in magnetic charging and AI features, though Samsung includes the S Pen and a brighter screen.

HMD Skyline:

• The only Android phone with native Qi 2, but has mid-range specs.
• Pixel 10 outperforms in camera, chip, and software experience.

Outlook

Google is taking a step toward building an Apple-like ecosystem with Pixelsnap and Hub Mode. This answers the criticism of Pixel 9’s lack of Qi 2 support. If Google delivers on its promises — especially with built-in magnets instead of relying on cases — the Pixel 10 could become the leading Android flagship of 2025. However, its success will hinge on pricing and the real-world performance of the Tensor G5, which needs to prove its edge over Samsung's processors.