Bypassing wireless pads could actually enhance the reliability of this dock.
The Google Store has unveiled a new 3-in-1 Wasserstein dock designed to concurrently charge a Pixel phone, Pixel Buds, and Pixel Watch 4. This dock employs USB-C wired charging for both the phone and earbuds rather than depending solely on Qi wireless pads. A rotating USB-C pedestal aids in aligning the phone correctly even with bulkier or protective cases. The charging station offers up to 36W of wired charging and is currently available on the Google Store in the U.S.
Google has ensured that the Pixel 10 series is Qi2 compatible, which allows it to function with Qi2 wireless chargers and MagSafe-style accessories. This compatibility means that your Pixel can now utilize various charging docks initially designed for the iPhone. However, the Google Store features a new charging dock that provides more than just charging capabilities for a Pixel phone.
As highlighted by 9to5Google, the Google Store now features a new 3-in-1 Wasserstein charging station. This dock is crafted to charge a Pixel smartphone, Pixel Buds, and the Pixel Watch 4 simultaneously.
The overall design is quite minimalistic, showcasing a vertical charging USB-C port at the front, a watch charger located behind it, and what seems to be one of the very first vertical charging stands for the Pixel Buds.
This design is also what makes the dock intriguing. Rather than completely depending on wireless charging pads, the Wasserstein station incorporates wired charging for the phone and Pixel Buds, alongside the charging pins for the Pixel Watch 4.
The phone is placed on a vertical USB-C pedestal at the front, allowing for direct plugging. Although this might feel a bit less convenient compared to traditional Qi pads, it still proves useful in certain configurations. Additionally, a rotating knob at the back enables angle adjustments of the USB-C connector for compatibility with various cases.
The dock is capable of supporting up to 36W wired charging and is currently available via the Google Store in the U.S. An Amazon listing exists as well, but it is presently out of stock there.
Android Central’s Perspective
I appreciate that the new Wasserstein charging station favors wired charging over wireless options. Although the Pixel 10 series is compatible with Qi2 wireless charging, relying on wireless charging daily can still generate additional heat and strain on the battery.
This is why I value the fact that this dock adopts USB-C charging instead. It presents a more pragmatic solution for everyday utilization. Hopefully, more charging docks will begin to embrace a similar design in the future.