Qi (pronounced “chi”) is the dominant international wireless charging standard. It was developed in 2008 by the Wireless Power Consortium for power transfer over short distances (up to 4 cm or 1.6 inches). It’s the technology standard used in BEZALEL’s Prelude wireless charger. “Chi” is a Chinese term that translates roughly to mean “natural energy” or “energy flow.”

Charging cords are a hassle, but they remain an unfortunate fact of life for most smartphone, tablet and wearable device users (a situation BEZALEL is determined to change). Wireless charging allows you to ditch the cables and eliminate the need to plug into a power source. In addition to offering great products like the Prelude, BEZALEL is also working to make wireless charging as omnipresent as wifi hotspots, so you’ll be able to power up wirelessly at a growing number of public spaces.

Imagine sitting down for a cup of coffee and being able to charge your smartphone automatically simply by placing it on the table at your office or any airport or hotel, not to mention your favorite café. While we’re at it, let’s add your car, as well as trains, planes and other forms of mass transit. The benefits of wireless charging in terms of convenience and productivity are immense. It also results in less e-waste and wear-and-tear on mobile devices.

Wireless charging (also known as inductive charging) is a convenient, hassle-free way to power up mobile devices. It uses an electromagnetic field instead of a cord to transfer power between charging station and device, thereby eliminating the need for wires. It’s a proven concept that has been used for many years in wirelessly charged household appliances such as electric toothbrushes (that are recharged via a wireless docking station).

BEZALEL’s Prelude uses the global Qi wireless charging standard compatible with most current mobile devices. All that’s required for wireless charging is the Prelude and a Qi-enabled smartphone, smartwatch or tablet. Non Qi-equipped devices (such as the current iPhone) can be made compatible via a Qi receiver patch.

It’s normal for a device to get slightly warm during wireless charging. Keep in mind that most conventional plug-in chargers also feel warm to the touch while charging.