Edible Apple

Wireless charging isn’t exactly knew – anyone out there remember the Palm Pre? But according to a recent report in Digitimes, both Samsung and Apple may be implementing wireless charging technology into their flagship smartphone models later in 2013.

While the report pegs Samsung as opting for Qi wireless charging technology for its upcoming Galaxy S IV, it points out that it won’t come with this capability right out of the box. Rather, users will be given the option to purchase a replacement back cover that will be able to access a charging pad.

As for Apple, shockingly, they may be going about things on their own.

Apple is likely to adopt the wireless charging technology developed internally, but it remains unknown if the next-generation iPhone will come with built-in wireless charging capability or with other attached accessories, said the sources.

Digitimes has a spotty track record when it comes to predicting features on upcoming Apple products, so certainly take this with a grain of salt. It’s also worth looking back at a Phil Schiller quote from a 2012 interview with All Things D where Apple’s Senior VP of Marketing explained why he wasn’t keen on wireless charging.

As for wireless charging, Schiller notes that the wireless charging systems still have to be plugged into the wall, so it’s not clear how much convenience they add. The widely-adopted USB cord, meanwhile, can charge in wall outlets, computers and even on airplanes, he said.

“Having to create another device you have to plug into the wall is actually, for most situations, more complicated,” Schiller said.

At the same time, it’s not as if Apple ever tips its hand and praises a new technology that it hasn’t yet implemented into its own products yet. Still, I’d be skeptical that wireless charging is on the way. The next iPhone, the iPhone 5S, will for the most part feature upgraded internals such as a superior camera. Aside from that, there are strong rumors that the next iPhone will come with a fingerprint authorization sensor. As for wireless charging? Color me skeptical