Apple joins Wireless Power Consortium ahead of 'iPhone 8'

By Neil Hughes

With this year's flagship iPhone expected to be the first to boast wireless charging, Apple has officially joined the Wireless Power Consortium, the governing body behind the Qi charging standard.

"iPhone 8" OLED concept via iMore.

Apple was added to the official Wireless Power Consortium website on Sunday, where the iPhone maker is listed as a member of the organization. The news comes as rumors of wireless charging in this year's so-called "iPhone 8" continue to heat up.

Just one day before Apple became listed on the consortium's website, the latest rumor suggested wireless charging with the "iPhone 8" will be made possible with an accessory that could be sold separately.

The latest rumors, combined with Apple joining the consortium, might pour cold water on hopes that Apple could introduce truly wireless charging. The company Energous has been suggesting for months that it is working with Apple on over-the-air charging, but such technology may not be ready for primetime in a flagship iPhone.