The future of kitchen design may be less about aesthetics and more about seamless power. At , at the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) in Orlando, FreePower demonstrated a significant expansion of its wireless charging technology, now capable of powering not just smartphones, but also laptops and smartwatches. This isn’t a concept for the distant future; the company is already working with retailers nationwide to integrate the technology into kitchen countertops.
FreePower’s system utilizes induction technology – the same principle behind wireless charging pads for phones – to create Qi-enabled charging halos directly on kitchen surfaces. This eliminates the clutter of cords and the competition for outlets that often plagues modern kitchens. The technology isn’t simply slapped onto existing countertops; it’s embedded during the fabrication process, making installation as straightforward as “cutting a sink,” according to representatives from the company.
The core of the system relies on the Qi wireless charging standard, which has become a global benchmark for inductive charging. As explained by FreePower, induction works by transferring energy through magnetic fields. A coil in the charging surface generates a magnetic field when electricity flows through it. When a compatible device – a smartphone, smartwatch, or laptop with a Qi receiver – is placed near this field, it can draw power without a physical connection. This is similar to how some electric toothbrushes charge on their bases.
While FreePower initially focused on charging phones at 25 watts, the company has significantly upped the ante. A new 65-watt version, coupled with a small adapter, now allows for laptop charging. A separate adapter extends the functionality to smartwatches. The user experience is designed to be intuitive: a glowing ring of light, the “charging halo,” illuminates the active charging zone when a hand approaches, indicating where to place a device. During a demonstration at KBIS 2026, a phone began charging within seconds of being placed on the illuminated surface.
The evolution of FreePower’s technology addresses a key limitation of earlier wireless charging solutions. Previously, Qi charging was largely confined to lower-power devices like smartphones. The ability to reliably and efficiently charge laptops wirelessly requires significantly more power and a more robust system. The introduction of the 65-watt version, and the accompanying adapters, represents a substantial engineering achievement.
The implications of this technology extend beyond mere convenience. For builders and designers, FreePower offers a way to differentiate properties and appeal to tech-savvy homeowners. Restaurants and commercial spaces can benefit from decluttered tables and a more streamlined customer experience. The company is actively partnering with businesses across various sectors to integrate its technology into a wider range of surfaces.
However, the widespread adoption of integrated countertop charging isn’t without potential considerations. The initial cost of installing FreePower-enabled countertops is likely to be higher than traditional options. The durability and longevity of the embedded technology will also be important factors for consumers to consider. While the mounting system is designed for easy removal, the long-term impact of embedding electronics into stone surfaces remains to be seen.
FreePower’s technology is compatible with devices from major manufacturers like Apple, Samsung, and Google, ensuring broad usability. The company works with retailers to offer the system as an upgrade option for new countertops, and pricing will vary depending on the material and the retailer. The company’s expansion into laptop and smartwatch charging positions it as a leader in the emerging field of integrated wireless power solutions, potentially reshaping how we interact with our devices in the spaces where we live and work.
The development highlights a broader trend towards seamless integration of technology into everyday objects. As consumers increasingly rely on mobile devices, the demand for convenient and unobtrusive charging solutions will only continue to grow. FreePower’s approach, embedding charging capabilities directly into surfaces, represents a significant step towards a future where power is always available, without the need for cords or adapters.
