Can iPhones Charge Each Other? Here’s the Truth

Explained by Jessica

Hey friends, I’m Jessica, and today we’re diving into one of the most common questions I’ve heard since the launch of newer iPhones — “Can iPhones charge each other?”

It’s such a fun concept, right? Imagine your friend’s iPhone battery dying during a long day out, and you just flip your phone around to give them a quick charge. It sounds futuristic — and honestly, something Apple would totally do. But is it possible today? Let’s break it down clearly, with real facts, Apple’s official stance, and a peek into the future of iPhone-to-iPhone wireless charging.

What People Mean by “iPhones Charging Each Other”

When someone asks this question, they’re usually referring to reverse wireless charging — also known as bilateral wireless charging.

In simple terms, it means one device (like an iPhone) can share its battery power wirelessly with another compatible device — for example:

• Charging another iPhone,
• Powering AirPods or Apple Watch,
• Or even juicing up a wireless charging case.

We already see this technology in some Android phones, like the Samsung Galaxy S24 and Google Pixel 8, which let users place earbuds or another phone on the back of their device for a quick charge.

So, where does Apple stand?

Do Current iPhones Support Reverse Charging?

Here’s the truth — no iPhone currently allows one iPhone to charge another iPhone wirelessly.

Even though the idea has been around for a while, Apple hasn’t officially activated this feature yet.

However, there’s an interesting twist:

1. The Hardware May Already Exist

According to multiple tech experts and teardowns, iPhones since the iPhone 12 series actually have the hardware potential to do reverse wireless charging.
That’s right — the coils used for MagSafe charging can technically support power output, not just input.

But Apple hasn’t enabled it through software (yet).

2. Apple’s Focus on MagSafe Ecosystem

Instead of enabling iPhone-to-iPhone charging, Apple has focused on developing its MagSafe accessory lineup — chargers, battery packs, wallets, and more.

In fact, MagSafe Battery Pack — released by Apple — uses a similar principle: it magnetically attaches to your iPhone and charges it wirelessly.
So yes, the feature already exists in part — but only through accessories, not directly between iPhones.

MagSafe Battery Pack and Reverse Charging — The Hidden Hint

Here’s something interesting for fellow Apple fans like me:

When you connect your iPhone 12 or newer to a MagSafe Battery Pack with a Lightning cable, your iPhone can actually charge the battery pack — not the other way around.

This means that reverse charging is already built-in, but only works when the iPhone is plugged in and with that specific accessory.

It’s like Apple is slowly preparing the ecosystem for something bigger — maybe iPhone-to-iPhone wireless charging in the near future.

Can You Charge Another iPhone Using a Cable?

Technically, yes — but not directly iPhone-to-iPhone.

Here’s what’s possible:

1. You can use a USB-C to Lightning cable (or USB-C to USB-C for newer iPhones) and connect one iPhone to a MacBook or power bank to share power indirectly.
2. The new iPhone 15 series, which finally uses USB-C ports, allows limited power delivery to smaller accessories (like AirPods or Apple Watch).

However, iPhone 15 can’t yet send power to another iPhone through USB-C — but it can receive charge from other devices like an iPad or MacBook.

So again, the potential is there… but not fully unlocked for iPhone-to-iPhone power sharing yet.

What About AirPods and Apple Watch Charging?

Even though iPhones can’t charge each other, you might be wondering — can my iPhone at least charge my AirPods or Apple Watch wirelessly?

Unfortunately, not directly.
The current iPhone models can receive wireless power but can’t send it wirelessly — except in specific conditions with Apple’s accessories.

However, Apple’s MagSafe technology continues to evolve, and rumor has it that future iPhones (possibly iPhone 18 or 19) may bring true reverse wireless charging for all small Apple devices.

Why Hasn’t Apple Released iPhone-to-iPhone Charging Yet?

There are a few reasons why Apple might be holding back this feature:

1. Battery Efficiency Concerns

Wireless charging is convenient but not very efficient. It loses more energy as heat, meaning your iPhone would drain faster if used to charge another phone.

Apple is all about battery optimization, so they may be waiting until the technology becomes more efficient before rolling it out.

2. Thermal Management

When two devices charge wirelessly, both generate heat.
Apple is known for strict temperature management — so they may still be perfecting heat control to prevent overheating or battery damage.

3. User Experience & Safety

Apple rarely introduces a feature until it works seamlessly.
They’re likely fine-tuning the process so that when reverse charging finally comes, it feels effortless and safe — without users worrying about power loss or temperature spikes.

Possible Future — iPhone-to-iPhone Charging

According to industry leaks and patents, Apple has been experimenting with bilateral charging technology since at least 2019.

Future iPhones could allow:

• Wireless charging of another iPhone,
• Powering AirPods directly from your iPhone’s back,
• Charging Apple Watch when you forget your dock,
• Or even sharing power with other MagSafe-compatible devices.

Imagine being able to help your friend out with 10% extra juice before a long drive — just by placing your iPhones together.
That’s the kind of Apple innovation people would love to see soon!

Workarounds Until Then — How to Share Power Between iPhones

If you need to charge another iPhone but can’t do it wirelessly yet, here are your best alternatives:

1. Use a MagSafe Battery Pack

Attach it to either phone and share it between devices. It’s portable and recharges quickly.

2. Carry a USB-C to Lightning Cable

If one iPhone is newer (USB-C) and the other is older (Lightning), you can use a laptop or power bank to quickly charge the weaker one.

3. Try a Power Bank with Dual Outputs

Many modern power banks have dual USB outputs, so you can charge two iPhones at once — perfect for families or couples like me who are always on the go!

Jessica’s Personal Take

As a mom and tech lover who uses iPhones for everything from work calls to taking pictures of my kids, I’ve often wished I could share a little charge with my husband when his phone dies mid-trip.

That’s why I’m so hopeful that Apple will bring this feature soon — it’s practical, energy-efficient, and fits their “ecosystem” philosophy perfectly.

Until then, I keep a small MagSafe battery pack in my purse — it’s sleek, magnetic, and honestly a lifesaver during travel or busy weekends.

Final Thoughts — Can iPhones Charge Each Other?

✅ Right now: No, iPhones cannot directly charge each other wirelessly or via cable.
⚙️ However: The hardware and potential exist.
🔮 In the future: We’ll likely see true reverse wireless charging in upcoming iPhones.

Apple has already hinted at it through patents and accessories like the MagSafe Battery Pack. When it finally arrives, it’ll make the iPhone even more self-sufficient — and more helpful to others.

So, while you can’t share charge just yet, you can stay prepared with smart accessories and a reliable power bank — until Apple flips that magical software switch!