Apple buys out wireless charging firm PowerbyProxi

San Francisco: Apple has bought New Zealand-based firm PowerbyProxi which specialises in wireless charging technologies for an undisclosed amount.

"PowerbyProxi employs about 55 staff and holds more than 300 patents relating to wireless charging," a report published in stuff.co.nz on Wednesday.

Powerbyproxi's team would be "a great addition as Apple works to create a wireless future", said Dan Riccio, Apple's Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering.

Auckland entrepreneur Fady Mishriki had set up PowerbyProxi in 2007 with the aim to help people charge everyday devices such as mobile phones without having to plug them in.

Last month, Apple unveiled its world-class wireless charging solution as it launched iPhone 8, 8 Plus and iPhone X.

Wireless charging works with the established Qi ecosystem, including two new wireless charging mats from Belkin and mophie, available from Apple Authorised Resellers.

Currently, iPhone 8 models can be charged by third-party pads, but transfer power is limited to 5 watts.