Here’s what’s new—and what actually matters—if you’re shopping phone accessories in early 2026.

Qi2 goes faster: 25W wireless charging is official

• The Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) launched “Qi2 25W” (Qi v2.2.1) in July 2025. It boosts maximum certified wireless power by nearly 70% over the original Qi2, and WPC says 0–50% smartphone charges in about 30 minutes are achievable under the spec. Fourteen receivers/chargers were first through certification, with hundreds more queued. (wirelesspowerconsortium.com)
• Certified Qi2 25W products began showing up from late summer 2025 and continue to populate the WPC database into 2026 (for example, 25W magnetic pads and stands from brands like iOttie and others). If you want the promised speed and interoperability, look for the official Qi2 logo and the 25W power profile in listings. (wirelesspowerconsortium.com)
• Beyond speed, WPC is pushing better alignment and automotive use. A “moving coil” concept demonstrated around CES 2025 aims to improve charge stability in cars where phone position shifts while driving—useful for magnetic mounts. (wirelesspowerconsortium.com)

EU’s common-charger rules are now in force (and they affect labels you’ll see worldwide)

• Since December 28, 2024, most new phones, tablets, and similar devices sold in the EU must use USB-C; laptops follow on April 28, 2026. Even if you buy in the U.S., these deadlines influence how global brands design ports and bundles. (commission.europa.eu)
• Fast-charging is being harmonized too. If a device supports higher-than-basic charging, it must implement USB Power Delivery and indicate this on packaging with the text “USB PD fast charging,” along with any other supported protocol. Expect clearer, standardized power info on boxes and spec sheets. (eur-lex.europa.eu)

Cables and chargers: clearer logos for real capabilities

• To cut confusion, USB-IF’s certified logos call out both data speed (e.g., “USB 80Gbps,” “USB 40Gbps”) and power levels up to 240W for USB-C EPR cables/chargers. When you’re pairing a phone with multi-device GaN bricks or high-end cables, these marks help ensure you’re getting the negotiated power you paid for. (usb.org)

A safety reckoning: recent recalls to know about

• Power banks and some wireless accessories have faced stepped-up recalls. In mid-2025, Anker recalled about 1.15 million PowerCore 10000 units (model A1263) in the U.S. after reports of overheating and fires; owners were urged to stop using affected units and seek replacements. (apnews.com)
• ESR’s HaloLock magnetic power banks saw U.S. recalls in August 2025 with an expansion announced October 2025/November 2025–January 2026 to additional models, again over fire and burn hazards. (cpsc.gov)
• Belkin initiated a late-2025 recall of its Auto-Tracking Stand Pro (MMA008) and two 20,000mAh USB-C PD power banks, offering refunds/credit to affected customers. Check Belkin’s official recall portal for model numbers and instructions. (belkin.com)

What this means for your next purchase

• Wireless chargers: If you own a recent flagship or plan to upgrade this year, prioritize Qi2 certification. It buys you better alignment, efficiency, and—where supported—25W speeds. For in-car use, look for magnetic mounts/chargers explicitly listing Qi2 and, ideally, updated designs that maintain coil alignment while driving. (wirelesspowerconsortium.com)
• USB-C wall/car chargers: Favor units that state USB-IF certification and clearly list PD wattage. Thanks to EU rules, more packaging now discloses whether a device supports “USB PD fast charging,” which helps match chargers to phones. For most phones, a 20–45W PD charger is a safe, versatile sweet spot. (eur-lex.europa.eu)
• Cables: For everyday phone charging, a certified 60W USB-C cable is ample; choose 240W EPR only if you also power laptops or big accessories. Rely on the new certified logos and avoid unbranded or ambiguous listings, especially on marketplaces. (businesswire.com)
• Safety: If you use older power banks, especially models named in recalls, stop using them and follow the maker/CPSC guidance. Don’t toss recalled lithium-ion devices in household trash—use proper battery disposal or take-back programs. (apnews.com)

The bottom line

The biggest accessory shift since USB-C’s mainstreaming is underway: Qi2 25W is bringing truly faster, safer, and more interoperable wireless charging, while EU rules are forcing clearer labeling and PD compatibility that benefit buyers everywhere.

Combine Qi2-certified chargers, PD-labeled bricks, and properly certified cables, and your phone—and your peace of mind—will be better off in 2026.