Video Demonstrates Semi-Functional AirPower Prototype in Action

In August, a video of an AirPower prototype gave us a closer look at Apple's abandoned wireless charging device, but it was not functional. The AirPower prototype can be seen thanks to a collaboration between Apple demo and Unbox Therapy.

AirPower was designed so that an Apple device could be placed on any part of the mat and charged, which meant that multiple charging coils had to be included.

Apple gave Unbox Therapy a rare AirPower prototype with one functioning coil in the bottom right corner of the mat, along with an explicit set of instructions on how to use the device without damaging it or injuring it.

Unbox Therapy uses a MacBook Pro'sUSB-C port to power on the AirPower. Unlike other AirPower prototypes, the unit does not have the white exterior shell that Apple advertised the device with. They received a bad electric shock when they accidentally touched the side of the AirPower that was not marked.

Only Apple devices should be charged on the AirPower according to the Apple demo. The AirPower prototype can't charge newer devices with magnets. Max devices could cause damage if they draw more power.

Apple recommends not to leave the AirPower connected to power for an extended period of time, up to a maximum of one minute, and to leave the unit for five minutes to cool down and prevent damage.

Unbox Therapy places an iPhone X on the corner of the mat in compliance with the instructions and the phone will stay on the mat for a short period of time. A case is placed on the mat that responds to the coil after a time of rest.

Problems with overheating, buggy inter- device communication, and mechanical and interference issues caused Apple to put the project on hold. AirPower was a product of its time and technology has changed since Apple came up with the idea.

Unbox Therapy points out that AirPower is poorly designed for many of the Apple Watch bands that don't lie flat when taken off the wrist and placed down. It's not known if this factored into Apple's reasoning to abandon the AirPower, but it's the main reason why most third-party multi-device wireless chargers come with a raised stand.

Rumors about Apple's work on a smaller wireless charging device may have been related to MagSafe or the MagSafe Duo, rather than another AirPower-like device. According to a report from Mark Gurman, Apple is still looking into AirPower-like charging solutions.