How to Use Reverse Wireless Charging on Phones

Updated 14 November 2026 · Standard formula, shown below

Reverse wireless charging lets your phone act as a power bank, topping up earbuds, smartwatches, or another phone by placing them on its back. This guide covers what you need, the exact steps for both Android and iPhone, common mistakes, and fixes when it doesn’t work.

What You’ll Need

A phone that supports reverse wireless charging (most recent Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, Huawei, and iPhone 12 or newer models).
A device that supports Qi wireless charging (earbuds case, smartwatch, or another phone).
Both devices should have enough battery – your phone needs at least 30% to activate the feature.
Remove thick cases (over 3mm) or metal attachments from both devices, as they block the charging field.

Step-by-Step

Check compatibility: Look up your phone’s specs or go to Settings → Battery → Wireless Power Sharing (Samsung) or Settings → Battery → Battery Share (Pixel). If the option exists, your phone supports it.
Turn on reverse wireless charging: On Samsung: Settings → Battery and device care → Battery → Wireless power sharing → toggle on. On Pixel: Settings → Battery → Battery Share → toggle on. On iPhone: just place the device on the back – it works automatically (no toggle).
Place the device correctly: Put the device you want to charge face-up on the back of your phone, centered near the middle. For earbuds cases, align the case’s charging coil with your phone’s coil (usually the center or slightly lower).
Wait for the connection: You should see a charging indicator on your phone’s screen (like a battery icon or a message “Charging connected device”). If nothing appears, adjust the position and try again.
Monitor the charge: Keep the devices still. The phone will show the battery level of the connected device (if supported) or just a notification that it’s charging.
Stop when done: Lift the device off. On Samsung and Pixel, the feature turns off automatically after a few seconds of no contact, but you can also toggle it off manually to save battery.

Common Mistakes

Leaving a thick case on – cases over 3mm or with metal parts (like popsockets or magnetic mounts) block the charging field.
Placing the device off-center – the coils must align; a small misalignment can prevent charging or make it very slow.
Using a device that doesn’t support Qi wireless charging – older earbuds or phones without wireless charging won’t charge.
Forgetting to enable the feature on Android – it’s not on by default on most Samsung and Pixel phones.
Charging your phone while reverse charging – this can cause overheating and slow both charges.

Tips

Keep your phone plugged into a charger while using reverse wireless charging – it will charge the other device faster and preserve your phone’s battery.
Remove any metal or magnetic accessories from both devices before starting.
If you’re charging earbuds, check the case’s LED indicator – it usually lights up when charging starts.
Use reverse charging sparingly – it drains your phone’s battery quickly. It’s best for emergency top-ups, not full charges.
Place both devices on a flat, non-metal surface to avoid heat buildup.

Troubleshooting

Nothing happens when you place the device: Make sure reverse wireless charging is enabled on your phone (Android). Check that the other device supports Qi charging – some older devices don’t. Remove any case or accessory and try again.

Charging is very slow: This is normal – reverse wireless charging is usually limited to 4.5W to 9W, so it’s much slower than a wall charger. Ensure both devices are not in use and are placed correctly. If your phone is low on battery, it may slow down or stop charging.

Phone gets hot: If your phone overheats, it will automatically stop reverse charging to protect itself. Remove the device, let your phone cool down, and try again with both devices on a hard surface.

Charging stops after a few seconds: This often happens if the devices shift slightly. Realign them and keep them still. Also, check that your phone’s battery is above 30% – many phones disable reverse charging below that.

Device charges but not fully: Reverse wireless charging is meant for small top-ups. If you need a full charge, use a cable or a standard wireless charger.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I charge my phone with reverse wireless charging? Yes, if the other phone supports Qi wireless charging. Place it on the back of the phone that’s providing power. The charging speed will be slower than a wired charger, and the provider phone’s battery will drain.

Does reverse wireless charging work with AirPods? Yes, any Qi-compatible earbuds case (including AirPods with wireless charging case) can be charged by placing the case on the back of a phone that supports reverse wireless charging.

Will reverse wireless charging damage my phone’s battery? No, it’s safe. The feature is designed to handle the power output. However, it does drain your battery faster, and frequent use may cause more charge cycles, which slightly affects battery longevity over time.

Can I use my phone while it’s reverse charging another device? Yes, but it’s not recommended. Using the phone will draw power and may slow the charging or cause overheating. It’s best to leave both devices idle.

Why is my iPhone not showing reverse wireless charging? iPhones don’t have a manual toggle – they automatically start reverse charging when you place a compatible device on the back. If it’s not working, ensure the device is Qi-compatible and your iPhone has at least 30% battery.

Can I charge a smartwatch with reverse wireless charging? Yes, most modern smartwatches (like Samsung Galaxy Watch or Apple Watch) support Qi charging, but some use proprietary chargers. Check your watch’s manual – if it charges on any Qi pad, it will work with reverse wireless charging.

Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.