Many iPhone users ask a simple but important question: can an iPhone charge another iPhone? Apple has added new charging technologies over the years, but the answer depends on the iPhone model, the method used, and the accessories available.
This guide explains every possible way, what works, what does not, and what Apple officially supports.
Can an iPhone Charge Another iPhone Directly?
An iPhone cannot directly charge another iPhone using a cable like Android phones do. Apple does not allow reverse wired charging between iPhones.
However, some newer iPhones can share power wirelessly in limited situations.
Which iPhones Support Reverse Charging?
Apple introduced limited reverse charging with iPhone 15 and newer models.
Supported models include:
- iPhone 15
- iPhone 15 Plus
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
These devices use the USB-C port, which enables basic power output to small accessories.
Can an iPhone Charge Another iPhone With a Cable?
Short Answer
No. iPhones do not support wired reverse charging between iPhones.
Why It Does Not Work
- Apple restricts power output to accessories only
- iPhones prioritize receiving power, not sending it
- iOS does not include reverse charging controls
Even with a USB-C to USB-C cable, one iPhone will not meaningfully charge another.
Can an iPhone Charge Another iPhone Wirelessly?
Yes, But With Major Limits
Newer iPhones can wirelessly share battery power using MagSafe or Qi technology.
How Wireless Power Sharing Works
- One iPhone acts as a power source
- The second iPhone receives power through wireless charging
- The charging speed remains very slow
Apple designed this feature mainly for:
- AirPods
- Apple Watch
Charging another iPhone works unofficially and inefficiently.
How to Wirelessly Charge Another iPhone Using Your iPhone
Follow these steps:
- Place both iPhones face down
- Align the charging coils carefully
- Keep both devices still
- Ensure the source iPhone has enough battery
Charging starts automatically if the alignment works.
Does iOS Have a Reverse Charging Setting?
No. iOS does not include a manual reverse charging toggle.
The system:
- Automatically decides when to send power
- Stops charging if battery drops too fast
- Prioritizes system stability
Users cannot force the feature on or off.
Charging Speed: What to Expect
Wireless reverse charging remains very slow.
| Method | Approximate Speed |
|---|---|
| Wired charging | Not supported |
| Wireless reverse charging | Extremely slow |
| Power bank | Fast and reliable |
Charging another iPhone may only add 5–10% battery in 30 minutes.
Battery Drain Risks
Using one iPhone to charge another causes:
- Rapid battery drain
- Increased heat
- Faster battery aging
Apple limits power output to protect battery health.
Better Alternatives to Charge Another iPhone
If you need emergency power, use these options instead:
1. MagSafe Power Bank
- Portable
- Fast
- Safe
2. USB-C Power Bank
- Works with all iPhones
- Delivers higher output
3. Wall Charger
- Most reliable solution
- Preserves battery health
Can Older iPhones Charge Another iPhone?
No. Older models:
- Use Lightning ports
- Lack reverse charging hardware
- Do not support power sharing
Only USB-C iPhones offer limited reverse charging.
Apple’s Official Position
Apple does not advertise iPhone-to-iPhone charging as a main feature.
Apple focuses on:
- Accessory charging
- Battery protection
- Energy efficiency
Future iPhones may improve this feature.
Common Myths About iPhone Reverse Charging
Myth 1: A USB-C cable enables full charging
This is false.
Myth 2: iPhones charge each other like Android
This is false.
Myth 3: Software updates unlock faster reverse charging
This is false.
Hardware limits power sharing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an iPhone charge another iPhone in an emergency?
Yes, but only wirelessly and very slowly.
Can I use MagSafe for iPhone-to-iPhone charging?
Yes, if alignment works correctly.
Will Apple improve reverse charging?
Apple may expand this feature in future models.
Bottom Line
If you are learning how to charge your phone with another phone wirelessly, remember that Apple allows it—but does not optimize it for daily use. iPhone reverse wireless charging works best as a backup, not a replacement for proper chargers.