Qi Donuts: A Tasty Treat for Energy and Wellness
▼ Summary
– Ikea is expanding its consumer electronics line with three new wireless chargers that prioritize home decor aesthetics over traditional tech accessory looks.
– The new chargers are limited to 15W Qi2.0 charging speeds but are positioned as well-priced options.
– The standout product is the $9.99 Västmärke, a donut-shaped silicone charger that can hide its cable and double as a magnetic grip for phones.
– A $24.99 Västmärke charging stand features a cork base, making it aesthetically pleasing and potentially functional for holding notes.
– The most practical model is a $24.99 Västmärke charging bowl with a built-in nightlight, designed to hold daily items like keys while charging a phone.
Ikea continues to surprise with its expanding line of consumer electronics, moving beyond furniture into cleverly designed tech accessories. The latest offerings are three new wireless chargers that prioritize style and practicality, all featuring the latest Qi2.0 charging standard at 15W. While not the fastest available, their affordable pricing and home decor-friendly designs make them compelling additions to any room.
The clear star of the show is the $9.99 Västmärke wireless charger, which sports a playful, donut-shaped design made from soft silicone. Its clever form allows you to wrap and conceal the built-in USB-C cable for a clean look. This charger works perfectly on a desk or nightstand, but its real trick is magnetic compatibility. It supports Apple’s MagSafe and Google’s Pixelsnap, letting it double as a handy grip for one-handed phone use, much like a PopSocket.
For those wanting a more stationary option, the $24.99 Västmärke wireless charging stand offers a stable base crafted from sustainable cork. This material gives it a warm, natural aesthetic that blends seamlessly with home decor, and its surface can even function as a small bulletin board for notes. While the charging technology here is straightforward, the design focus is on being a discreet and attractive accessory.
Perhaps the most versatile model is the other $24.99 Västmärke option, which includes integrated lighting. This piece takes the form of a large translucent bowl, creating a dedicated spot to drop your daily essentials like keys, wallet, or sunglasses. A Qi charging puck is nestled in the center for your phone. A gentle press on this puck activates a soft, diffused LED light from beneath the bowl, transforming the unit into a practical nightlight for a bedroom or entryway. This combination of utility, charging, and ambient lighting encapsulates Ikea’s approach to making technology feel less intrusive and more a part of everyday living.
(Source: The Verge)
