Apple launched two years ago Apple Watch Series 7 watches added fast charging capabilities, now Apple plans to implement a new requirement for third-party accessory manufacturers later this year to dramatically expand the availability of fast charging on the Apple Watch.
Under Apple’s MFi Accessory Program, Apple Watch accessory manufacturers must use official charging modules provided by Apple itself. Currently, Apple gives these companies two options: an older charging module, which is slower, or a newer charging module, which is capable of fast charging. According to third-party accessory companies that spoke with AppleInsider’s website, Apple will stop offering the older charging module option later this year. The deadline for companies to submit plans to use the slower charging modules is set for August 31, and Apple will officially stop taking orders for the older modules on September 30th.
This change is notable for a couple of different reasons. First, it will significantly increase the number of third-party accessories that can take advantage of the Apple Watch’s fast charging capabilities. Additionally, a potential downside to this is that fast-charging modules cost more for MFi accessory manufacturers. As these companies are required to use fast-charging hardware, accessory manufacturers may have to raise their prices.
The following Apple Watch models support fast charging:
Apple Watch Series 7
Apple Watch Series 8
Apple Watch UltraApple says that with fast charging, the Apple Watch battery can be charged from 0 percent to 80 percent in about 45 minutes. There are only a few accessories on the market that support fast charging on the Apple Watch.
It is noted that Apple’s own MagSafe Duo accessory does not support Apple Watch fast charging, and it’s unclear whether Apple has a new version in development.
