iOS 11 Hidden Features: iOS 11.1 Will Unlock Wireless Charging Functionality In iPhone 8 After Device's Launch

by Robert Rickss / Jul 09, 2017 09:44 AM EDT

A member of the press compares the new iPhone models at the launch of the new Apple iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 plus at the Apple Omotesando store on September 19, 2014 in Tokyo, Japan.

iOS comes with many surprises and hidden features to keep the Apple fans guessing. Recently, Apple claimed that the iOS 11.1 will unlock wireless charging functionality in iPhone 8 after device's launch.

iOS 11.1 Will Unlock Wireless Charging Functionality

Apple's latest iPhone lineup is expected to ship with a mass of latest and innovative features in 2017. The iPhone 8 will most definitely be the focus of that range.

However, Redmound Pie reported the one feature that will standout is set to be included on all three devices is advanced wireless inductive charging. That would mean users don't need to tether an iPhone to a charging cable to charge it.

The feature will surely be greeted by device owners but it's also a double-edged thing due to the fact that Apple is expected to sell a separate accessory to unlock that feature. It's now being suggested that the required accessory will not ship at the same time as the new iPhone range.

According to Follow News, a tweet posted earlier said that a well-placed Apple insider John Gruber has all-but confirmed previous reports that Apple's wireless charging accessory will be a separate purchase. Furthermore, the tweet also suggested that the accessory might be late and Apple might be playing the same type of game as it did with the new Portrait mode on iPhone 7 Plus by waiting until the next release of iOS to actually unlock that option.

iPhone 7 Plus users will always remember that the original Portrait mode wasn't made available until iOS 10.1 dropped for compatible devices. Hence, the use of the word "might" in the tweet means that there is no confirmation on the matter and that Apple's iPhone could still ship with everything needed to take advantage of wireless charging feature.

The fascinating problem around the iPhone lineup is that how Apple actually mixed this wireless charging into the devices. If it comes up with its own proprietary solution then a new accessory will be needed.