Apple is steadily tapping into the benefits of wireless technology and to make further inroads in this area, the company acquired New Zealand-based startup PowerbyProxi. Apple shared the news on October 25. For the uninitiated, PowerbyProxi specializes in making wireless charging products, which provide charge to devices such as drones, robots, and more.
In September, Apple introduced the iPhone 8 series and its latest smartwatch. The event also saw the company debut a wireless charging pad dubbed The AirPower. The AirPower can simultaneously charge an iPhone, AirPods, and the Apple Watch.
The product complements the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and the iPhone X which come with wireless charging support. This charging pad is an upgrade from the company’s older in-house charging solutions and uses Qi-based technology. The latest iPhone models can also be charged via third-party pads like Belkin and Mophie wireless chargers.
Qi-based solutions from PowerbyProxi
PowerbyProxi is a 10-year-old startup founded in Auckland by Fady Mishriki. Started as a spinoff of a project at Auckland University, the company soon gained worldwide recognition for its wireless charging solutions. The company specializes in developing Qi-based wireless charging solutions. The company's product portfolio includes data and power transfer systems that can be wirelessly used.
It is designed to be used for high power applications and uses a 65mm power coil to deliver charge at about 100 watts to drones, robots, medical equipment, and warehouses. The company also manufactures flexible docking solutions, which are waterproof and sport sleek modular designs.
How much is the deal worth?
Rumors are rife that the PowerbyProxi acquisition was closed at a staggering $100 million.
However, both the companies are staying mum on the monetary details of the transaction. ProxibyPower brings with it an expert team of 50 staff and over 300 patents that are sure to do wonders for Apple's product portfolio in the near future. However, as history shows us, a strong possibility exists that Apple could ask PowerbyProxi to halt its retail operations and work only for Apple and its products.
Why Apple acquired PowerbyProxi
Apple's acquisition of this company comes at a time when it is looking at promoting wireless charging as a primary feature in its iPhones, as well as other products. According to a Tech Crunch report, Apple is also looking to introduce wireless charging functionality for its iPads and MacBooks. It remains to be seen how Apple utilizes the resources offered by the startup in the near future.
