These Wireless Chargers Can Upgrade Your Decor Wireless chargers have been around for years, but a new crop of creators made them more stylish, convenient, and integrated with your workspace.
By Chyelle Dvorak Edited by Frances Dodds
This story appears in the December 2021 issue of BIZ Experiences. Subscribe »
1. The no-plug outlet.
If you're looking to keep your space clean and simply reduce the cords in your office, then the Radiant Wireless Charger by Legrand ($80; legrand.us) will do the job. Just plug this cover into an electrical outlet and charge any compatible device (from manufacturers such as Apple, Samsung, Google, and others). The outlet includes an extra layer of security to prevent electric shock, and special lights indicate when your phone is ready to go.
2. The charging picture frame.
Now you can put something on your desk that you actually want to see: a picture frame — the PowerPic Phone Charger by Twelve South ($40; twelvesouth.com) — containing an image of your family, friends, or new puppy. When your phone needs a charge, just place it in the frame, too. The image in the frame can even be set up to show up on your phone while it charges, making the entire process practically invisible. It works through most phone cases up to three millimeters thick.
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3. The cleanup cup.
Researchers have found that our phones are dirtier than our toilet seats — so why not sanitize them while they're charging? This magical charging cup, the Oblio by Lexon ($80; lexon-design.com), a wireless charging station with a UV sanitizer, kills 99.9 percent of germs on your phone in just 20 minutes and is even lab-tested against harmful viruses. It charges at 10 watts, which is good for a wide variety of phones.
4. The power-up workspace.
When you cover your desk with the Taskpad Full Desk Blotter & Mouse Pad with Wireless Charger by Key Smart ($120; getkeysmart.com), this water-resistant pad can charge your phone, AirPods, or mouse — while still holding your coffee. The pad is designed to add a layer of cushion to your arms while you work., and at roughly 35 by 17 inches, there's plenty of space for you to keep your keyboard and other electronics right at your fingertips. The downside is you can charge only one item at a time.
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5. The invisible option.
If you're looking for a gadget to truly blend in, try attaching the UTS-1 Invisible Wireless Charger by Kew Labs ($150; kewlabstech.com) to the underside of your desk or any work surface (except metal). It uses special Intelligent Power Communication Technology (IPC) to work through surfaces up to one inch thick—even granite countertops. You'll have to figure out when it's done charging because there's no updating light. It installs easily, without any tools.
