Five years after Apple introduced MagSafe, Google finally has an answer—and it’s called Pixelsnap. Debuting with the Pixel 10 series, Pixelsnap brings magnetic wireless charging and accessory support to Android in a way that’s native, fast, and cross-compatible.
At its core, Pixelsnap is Google’s implementation of the Qi2 and Qi2.2 wireless charging standards. That means:
- Pixel 10, 10 Pro, and 10 Pro Fold support up to 15W magnetic wireless charging.
- Pixel 10 Pro XL goes further with 25W Qi2.2 charging—currently the fastest magnetic wireless charging on any mainstream phone.
The magnets are built into the phone’s back panel, so no special case is required. Just snap on a charger or accessory, and it aligns automatically.
What Pixelsnap Can Do and Its Accessories
Pixelsnap is more than just a convenient way to charge your phone; it opens up a world of new functionality. The magnetic ring on the back of the Pixel 10 series allows you to “snap” on a variety of accessories for different purposes. Some of the official Pixelsnap accessories include the Pixelsnap Charger, the Pixelsnap Charger with Stand, and the Pixelsnap Ring Stand.
Beyond Google’s official products, the technology is an open standard, meaning a wide array of third-party accessories are already available from brands like Dbrand and others, including magnetic wallets, car mounts, and battery packs.
How Pixelsnap Stacks Up Against MagSafe
While both systems rely on magnets, Pixelsnap and MagSafe are fundamentally different in their approach. MagSafe is a proprietary Apple technology, which has created a closed ecosystem for accessories and charging. In contrast, Pixelsnap is Google’s implementation of the open Qi2 wireless charging standard, which was developed in collaboration with Apple. This open approach is a game-changer for consumers, as it allows Pixel users to tap into a massive, mature market of existing MagSafe accessories.
In terms of charging speed, both systems are now on equal footing. The new iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro models can charge wirelessly at up to 25W with a new MagSafe charger. Similarly, the top-tier Pixel 10 Pro XL also supports 25W wireless charging with a certified Qi2 accessory, bringing it in line with its biggest competitor. This makes the choice between the two less about charging speed and more about which ecosystem you prefer.
