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You need this wireless charger with a built-in fan for your iPhone – here’s why and how it works

I’ve become a fan of wireless charging because it’s quick, easy, and far more convenient to place my iPhone on a charging pad than to search for a cable, especially in the dark. However, wireless charging has drawbacks, including the heat generated during the process. This waste heat can lead to erratic charging and battery life degradation.

Also: My new favorite travel accessory is a 3-in-1 MagSafe charger that’s smaller than a cookie

Some manufacturers attempt to mitigate this issue by adding a fan to the wireless charging pad. While this approach helps to dissipate heat, its effectiveness can diminish in warmer weather due to higher ambient temperatures. Additionally, using a case can cause problems because it reduces charging efficiency and traps heat.

Torras has developed a wireless charger that addresses heat concerns using science. 

The charger attaches magnetically to the back of the iPhone with 11 Newtons of clamping force, and as soon as it’s plugged in, the charger springs to life. Not only does it start powering the connected device — whether it’s an iPhone, Android device, or AirPods — but the fan also activates to provide cooling.

The front of the charging puck gets nice and cold!

The front of the charging puck gets nice and cold.

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET

There’s a button on the side of the PolarCircle Qi2 MagSafe Charger

The charger doubles as a stand, with a freewheeling ring that hinges out to hold the phone at a convenient viewing angle — another nice touch from Torras.

has become a favorite device of mine. Even without the cooling feature, it’s a great portable charger, but the cooling capability elevates it to another level. I’ve tested several wireless chargers with built-in cooling fans, and while they were better than those without, the cooling effect was minimal. The TEC adds active cooling, making a tremendous difference. 

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