The Apple AirPower charging solution skipped the entirety of 2018. It was announced alongside the iPhone X way back in September 2017, but has been highly conspicuous by its absence ever since.
Apple has reportedly been unable to overcome some technical challenges that would enable AirPower to charge an iPhone, AirPods and an Apple Watch simultaneously, wirelessly, safely and efficiently.
US communications giant AT&T could be looking to step into the void with a dual charging solution for the Apple Watch and iPhone handsets. As well as replenishing both devices at the same time, it also features a 3,000mAh battery that can be used to charge devices on the go.
Related: Best wireless charger for iPhone
The Power Drum Wireless Charger & Apple Watch Power Bank has been revealed by an FCC listing in the United States. The device offers support for charging an iPhone at 7.5W. The iPhone sits on top of the drum, while the Apple Watch wraps around it, sitting against a magnetic charging pad.
Here’s the listing for the accessory first spotted by ZNF (via 9to5Mac), which is listed for the price of $99.99:
- Made for: Apple Watch Series 3, Apple Watch Series 2, Apple Watch Series 1, Apple Watch (1st generation)
- 2-in-1 portable charger, charges an Apple Watch and Qi-enabled wireless device simultaneously
3000mAh capacity battery - Built-in magnetic charging module for Apple Watch
- LED charge indicators
- Input: Micro USB
- Output: up to 10W on select wireless charging devices and up to 5W on Apple Watch
Considering the Apple Watch Series 4 isn’t mentioned, we’d assume that AT&T has had this one lined up for a while and it does indeed support the newest version of Apple’s smartwatch.
As for whether we’ll ever see AirPower? Well, we’re well on the way to 18 months since Apple announced it. We’d give it 50/50 at best.
Do you think we’ll ever see the Apple Watch Series 4? Drop us a line @TrustedReviews on Twitter.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.