Apple acquires NZ wireless charging developer PowerbyProxi

Auckland startup PowerbyProxi has been acquired by Apple as the tech giant continues to grow its wireless capabilities.

PowerbyProxi was founded in 2007 as a spin-out of the University of Auckland's wireless power department.

The company designs and develops a range of safe, high efficiency and high-density wireless power products.

The company's name is a play on the words "Power by Proximity" reflecting its vision that surfaces, not sockets will deliver power to all of our digital devices.

Fady Mishriki, PowerbyProxi founder and CEO, says, "The team and I are thrilled to join Apple. There is tremendous alignment with our values, and we are excited to continue our growth in Auckland and contribute to the innovation in wireless charging coming out of New Zealand.

The company is headquartered in Freemans Bay, Auckland, New Zealand.

Dan Riccio, Apple hardware engineering senior vice president, says, "We want to bring truly effortless charging to more places and more customers around the world.

"Our Auckland team will be a great addition as Apple works to create a wireless future.

PowerbyProxi's vision is to create the world's safest and most efficient wireless power solutions and has made significant contributions to the development of the Wireless Power Consortium's future Qi wireless charging standard.

Earlier this year, Apple gave a sneak peek of AirPower, an Apple-designed wireless charging accessory coming in 2018, which offers an active charging area that will allow iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus or iPhone X customers to simultaneously charge up to three devices, including Apple Watch Series 3 and a new optional wireless charging case for AirPods.

The glass back design of iPhone 8 and the upcoming iPhone X will work with Qi wireless chargers found in some hotels, cafés, airports and cars.

Belkin and mophie have also developed two new wireless chargers designed for iPhone 8, available from the Apple store.