After much fanfare and delay, Apple has reportedly begun production of its ‘AirPower’ charging mat – a device which could wirelessly charge an iPhone and Apple Watch simultaneously.
Several reports [e.g. MacRumours] credit a tweet from Hong Kong-based ChargerLAB, citing a “credible source.”
According to the supply chain source, Chinese manufacturer Luxshare Precision has commenced AirPower production, with release slated sometime soon.
Breaking: AirPower is finally coming. We just learned from credible source in supply chain that the manufacture Luxshare Precision has already started producing Apple AirPower wireless charging pad. Luxshare Precision is also the maker of Apple AirPods and USB-C cables. pic.twitter.com/UqgWIAh3sx
— ChargerLAB (@chargerlab) 12 January 2019
Translated by MacRumours, a screenshot WeChat conversation appears to corroborate claims.
The news comes after renowned Apple analyst, Ming-Chi Kuo, reported in October that the AirPower would launch Q1Y19.
First unveiled in 2017, some commentators claim AirPower delays stemmed from production difficulties.
The device was debuted shortly after the iPhone X launch, with released scheduled for 2018.
Failing to deliver this promise, the Californian giant has remained tight lipped, leading some to speculate its cancellation.
In a follow-up tweet, ChargerLab reports Pegatron will commence AirPower production on January 21.
Both companies are reportedly Apple OEM in Asia, with Luxshare also assembling Apple AirPods.
Apple AirPower: Another source claims Pegatron is set to start mass produce AirPower at Jan 21. Pegatron is also an Apple OEM in Asia. The company employee says AirPower has total three layers of coils in 8-7-7 configuration from bottom to top. pic.twitter.com/xsboO47PGR
— ChargerLAB (@chargerlab) 12 January 2019
