This past week we’ve been enjoying a few more mobile options from the folks atSamsung. We reviewed their new Galaxy S 4 Active, and now we have the wireless charging dock available for some quick hands-on time. Samsung’s charging kit you’re seeing here works with the Qi standard, just like many wireless chargers from Nokia, LG, and even the model for the Nexus 4. Samsung delivers a new battery cover to complete the task, so take a peek below.
Samsung finally unleashed the wireless charging kit on their online store recently, and for those interested we have a few thoughts on the package. The charging dock itself is quite large, much bigger in fact than both the Nexus 4 and LG’s wireless chargers. It has a durable and hefty feel, and a nice rubbery coating to keep the phone safe from any scratching while you toss it on and off for a quick charge.
While Samsung’s Galaxy S4 (now) comes in a wide array of colors, sadly the charging dock only has one option available: grey. Of course anyone should know the dock will be plugged into a nearby outlet using the same micro-USB cord as usual, then you just toss your phone on that charging dock platform for juice. Samsung makes it very apparent on the device with a sticker, that you’ll need to be perfectly aligned. This held true too, slight turns and the phone wouldn’t charge. So long as the middle is centered, you’ll be good though.
Unlike the Nexus 4, DROID DNA and a few others, the Galaxy S4 requires a replacement battery cover to enjoy the wireless charging capability. One which won’t be provided in the box, but a quick $39 will get you the color of your choice. Verizon and most carriers have them in store and online in both white or black. Sadly, you’ll also need to spend $49 for the charging pad, but the convenience may be worth it to some.
Speaking of the replacement battery back. It’s quite thick, and as you can see in the image below there’s a noticeable increase in thickness, but overall nothing to be concerned about. Compared to the Active below, you can see the difference. As a comparison the stock GS4 back is flush or thinner than the camera. Here you can see the lip added with the new back. The GS4 is thin already, so this almost gives it a more premium feel as it adds to the overall feel in your hand. That’s my opinion at least.
Sadly we wish this could have came standard, just like it did with the Nexus 4, HTC DROID DNA, Optimus G, and a few others. However, if you have the LG wireless charging kit, the Nexus 4 charger, or even some 3rd party Energizer models or even one from Nokia, they’ll all work with ease. All you’ll need is that replacement battery cover.
Take a peek at a few more pictures below, then decide if the near $90 price is worth it to you. We love the convenience personally, just wish it would have came standard. Not as an aftermarket purchase.
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