The Wireless Power Consortium today announced a new partnership with Ikea, which will see wireless charging capabilities added to Ikea's furniture. Ikea will add Qi-based wireless chargers to bedside tables, desks, floor and table lamps, and desks into charging platforms. Ikea said some of the furniture pieces will be designed by David Wahl. By adding wireless charging to furniture, the WPC and Ikea hope to make it easier for consumers to charge their mobile phones and tablets without the typical mess of wires that accompany many such devices. Ikea expects to sell Qi-compatlbe furniture throughout Europe and North America beginning in April. The companies will show off the new designs closer to launch. Qi is one of two major competing standards for wireless charging. The other is run by the Power Matters Alliance and Alliance 4 Wireless Power, which are in the process of merging. Ikea didn't say if it will eventually support the PMA/A4WP spec.


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