Reverse wireless charging, also called Battery Share or Wireless PowerShare on different Android phones, is the only documented method to charge one phone wirelessly from another. This feature lets a compatible phone act as a wireless power bank, so you can give another phone a boost without any cables. You can also use a wireless charging case as a method to charge one phone from another wirelessly.
What is reverse wireless charging?
Reverse wireless charging is a feature built into select Android phones that lets them send power to another device wirelessly. Manufacturers give it different names: Samsung calls it Wireless PowerShare, Google uses Battery Share, and other brands may label it reverse wireless charging or similar. The core idea is the same, your phone becomes a wireless charging pad for another phone, earbuds, or smartwatch. This is the only method documented in official manufacturer support pages for charging one phone from another wirelessly. Before you try it, you need to understand your phone wireless charging setup and compatibility, since not every phone can send power this way.
Can an iPhone charge another phone wirelessly?
No. While iPhones have wireless charging for receiving power, they cannot send it wirelessly to another phone. The only documented reverse charging on an iPhone is via a USB-C cable on iPhone 15 and later models, which is wired, not wireless. Rumors about future iPhone models adding this feature exist, but no official support page confirms it today.
How to use reverse wireless charging on Android
Steps vary by phone model and Android version, so check your device’s settings or manual. The general process works like this:
- Open your phone’s Settings app.
- Look for options like Battery, Connected devices, or a dedicated section for reverse charging. On Samsung phones, go to Settings > Battery > Wireless PowerShare. On Google Pixel, go to Settings > Battery > Battery Share.
- Turn on the reverse wireless charging feature. Some phones also offer a quick toggle in the Quick Settings panel.
- Place the two phones back-to-back, aligning their wireless charging coils. The center of each phone’s back is usually the sweet spot.
- Wait for a confirmation, a sound, vibration, or on-screen notification, that charging has started.
You can also use a USB OTG cable as a method to charge one phone from another. Keep both phones still while they are connected. If you are unsure about your device’s capabilities, check it & is your phone qi-enabled by looking up your model’s specifications online or in the manufacturer’s support pages.
Why isn't my phone charging another phone?
Several issues can prevent reverse wireless charging from working. First, confirm that your phone actually supports the feature, not all Android phones do. Second, remove any thick or metal-reinforced cases from both phones, as they can block the wireless signal. Some phone cases are too thick or have metal components that can prevent the charging pad from working efficiently. Finally, understand that reverse wireless charging is slower than plugging into a wall outlet. Wireless charging may take slightly longer compared to traditional wired charging methods. If you are used to standard wireless charger charging times, expect this method to be even slower because the power source is a phone battery, not a wall plug. Using a USB OTG cable may drain the battery of the donor phone more quickly. The amount of power transferred from one phone to another may vary depending on factors like battery capacity and charging efficiency. If everything seems correct but charging still fails, try repositioning the phones or restarting both devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a phone charge another phone wirelessly?
Yes, but only on some Android phones that support reverse wireless charging, Battery Share, or Wireless PowerShare. This is not a standard feature on iPhones according to official documentation. You can also use an app and Bluetooth connection as a method to charge one phone from another wirelessly.
Can an iPhone charge another phone wirelessly?
No.
Do apps or Bluetooth enable phone-to-phone charging?
No. No official manufacturer support pages document an app or Bluetooth connection as a way to transfer charging power between phones. Any app claiming to do this is not supported by phone makers.
Does a wireless charging pad let one phone charge another phone?
No.
What phone charger types and cables work for reverse charging?
Reverse wireless charging does not use cables or traditional chargers, it relies on the phone’s built-in wireless charging coil. For wired reverse charging on iPhones, a USB-C to USB-C cable is needed on iPhone 15 and later.
How can I check if my phone supports wireless charging?
Check your phone's specifications on the manufacturer's official website or support pages to see if Qi wireless charging is listed as a feature.
Do I need any additional accessories to charge my phone wirelessly?
No additional accessories are needed if your phone has built-in Qi wireless charging; simply place it on a compatible wireless charging pad.
Is wireless charging as efficient as charging with a cable?
Wireless charging is generally less efficient than wired charging, resulting in slower charge times and some energy lost as heat.
For the wider topic, see phone wireless charging setup.
