The Pixel 7a brings a few key upgrades over the Pixel 6a, but does this include wireless charging support? Google has loaded the Pixel 7a with several premium features, reducing the gap with the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro. The mid-range smartphone features a 90Hz display, a big boost from the Pixel 6a's 60Hz screen. In addition, it's powered by the same Google Tensor G2 chipset as the Pixel 7 phones. Other key features borrowed from the Pixel 7 lineup include Face Unlock, free access to the Google One VPN, and advanced photo editing tools like Photo Unblur.

Fortunately, the Pixel 7a also features wireless charging support. This is the first time Google has introduced wireless charging on a cheaper Pixel a-series phone, and it's a big deal. Google has made some downgrades in this regard though, since the Pixel 7a charges at 7.5W wirelessly. In comparison, the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro can charge at 23W wirelessly using the Pixel Stand 2. Either way, it's a nice upgrade to have, and means users can place the Pixel 7a on any Qi wireless charger to charge its 4,385mAh battery.

Related: Does The Pixel 7a Have A Headphone Jack? What You Need To Know

Pixel 7a Charging Options

Pixel 7a on the Pixel Stand 2

Unlike the Pixel 7 series, the Pixel 7a doesn't support reverse wireless charging, which means users can't reverse-charge other Qi-compatible accessories like the Pixel Buds Pro. Reverse wireless charging tends to be reserved for flagship phones, so this doesn't come as a surprise. Even the iPhone doesn't support reverse wireless charging yet.

As for the wired charging options, Pixel 7a users can charge their phone at up to 18W speeds. This is the same charging speed as the Pixel 6a, but lower than the Pixel 7's 21W and Pixel 7 Pro's 23W speeds. Google doesn't include a charger in the box, but a USB-C to USB-C cable is provided. Users can buy Google's 30W adapter to charge the Pixel 7a. Since it's a USB PD charger, the Pixel 7a charges only at 18W. Third-party chargers rated 18W or above will also do the job.

For those who prefer to charge wirelessly, Google sells the Pixel Stand 2 for $79. Since the Pixel Stand 2 doesn't fast charge the Pixel 7a, users can pick up a cheaper third-party option from Amazon. Brands like Belkin, Anker, Nanami, Baseus, and others sell wireless chargers for as little as $15, making them a much cheaper investment for Pixel 7a users. The first-gen Pixel Stand is also available on Amazon for between $20 and $40, making it a great choice for Pixel 7a users who want a Google wireless charger.

Source: Google 1, 2