Monday, October 29, 2012

Wireless Charging Builds Momentum


The Power Matters Alliance (PMA), which is creating an ecosystem and open standard for smart wireless power, has added AT&T, Google and Starbucks as members. Vint Cerf will serve as honorary chairman of the organization.

"An Internet of 'smart things' is rapidly evolving and most of them are powered electrically. Google cares greatly about a future where power can be wireless, smart and environmental," said Vint Cerf, Chief Internet Evangelist at Google. "The PMA is about doing for power what the Internet did for data.  With the help of Starbucks, AT&T, P&G, Powermat and so many others I believe this goal is finally within reach."


PMA announced the following milestones
  • AT&T has begun selling PMA-compatible wireless power cases and charging surfaces in select markets.
  • Delta airlines installed PMA-compatible Wireless Charging Spots in lounges and gates in leading airports.
  • Duracell has begun a nationwide retail rollout of PMA-compatible wireless charging accessories through its Duracell Powermat joint venture.
  • General Motors – the world's largest automaker – will include PMA-compatible wireless charging for smartphones in upcoming models.
  • Jay Z has installed PMA-compatible Wireless Charging Spots throughout his 40/40 Club in New York.
  • Madison Square Garden, 'The world's most famous arena,' has begun installing hundreds of PMA-compatible Wireless Charging Spots throughout the arena, as has the brand new Barclays Center, in Brooklyn.
  • Powermat Technologies – the world's leader in wireless power – has contributed its core technology to the PMA and has committed that all its products will comply with the PMA specification.
  • Starbucks is testing PMA-compatible Wireless Charging Spots in select Boston stores.
  • Westfield - one of the world's largest shopping center portfolios – has installed PMA-compatible charging spots in Westfield Garden State Plaza Mall.