Apple patents wireless chargers that pause data to save power
Apple has secured a patent for a method where wireless chargers and devices pause their data connections during specific quiet periods. The system uses the power coil to detect these silent windows and automatically turns off communication hardware to reduce energy use.
In the filing’s own words
A wireless power system may include a power transmitting device for transmitting wireless power to a power receiving device that receives the wireless power. The power transmitting device can include data communications facilities for sending and receiving data packets. The power transmitting device can selectively turn off its data communications facilities. The power receiving device can include data communications facilities for sending and receiving data packets. The power receiving device can selectively turn off its data communications facilities.
What exactly they claim (claim 1)
1. A method of operating an electronic device, comprising: with a wireless power transfer coil, transmitting wireless power to a power receiving device; with a data receiver coupled to the wireless power transfer coil, obtaining a packet transmitted from the power receiving device; determining whether the packet has an associated silent period; and in response to determining that the packet has an associated silent period, deactivating one or more communications components of the electronic device during at least a portion the silent period.
Facts
- Company
- Apple (Apple Inc.)
- Official title
- Communications operations in wireless power systems
- Patent number
- US12749929B2
- Application number
- 18937480
- Filed
- Nov 5, 2024
- Granted
- Sep 29, 2026
- Inventors
- 3
- Claims
- 20
Classified under
H02J 50/80 Electricity & electronicsH02J 50/10 Electricity & electronicsH04L 27/06 Electricity & electronicsMore from Apple in Batteries & energy
- Apple patents phone method to wake up only when needed to save battery Sep 29, 2026
- Apple patents system to notify users when cheap energy windows start Oct 6, 2026
- Apple patents wireless charger that briefly pauses to check connection Oct 20, 2026
- Apple patents wireless charging that picks frequencies based on location Sep 3, 2026
- Apple patents wireless charging safety check for metal objects Sep 10, 2026
Summaries are simplified from the filing’s own abstract and first claim. A patent filing is not a product announcement.
Patent data and drawings: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Nebula is not affiliated with or endorsed by the USPTO.