Wireless Charging (Qi standard) became mainstream when Apple added it (iPhone 8/X, 2017), following Android years earlier. Promise of cable-free convenience met reality of slower charging, exact placement requirements, and can’t use phone while charging. Useful for overnight/desk charging but not revolutionary. MagSafe (2020) improved alignment. Efficiency loss and e-waste from pads raised environmental concerns.
Sources: Wireless Charging Adoption Data, Energy Efficiency Studies