2026: Time for Smartphone Makers to Embrace Public Fast-Charging Standards

As battery capacities rise, charging experience has become a crucial factor in smartphone user satisfaction. In 2025, the widespread adoption of silicon-carbon anodes, higher cell densities, and 7000–10000mAh batteries made it “the year of energy” for smartphones. But large batteries alone are not enough; fast charging is essential to fully utilize their potential.

More manufacturers are supporting public fast-charging standards such as PPS (Programmable Power Supply) and UFCS. Devices like the Xiaomi 17 series, Redmi K90, and Turbo series now support not only proprietary fast charging (“Surge Charging”) but also USB PD PPS, reaching up to 100W PPS.

PPS offers adaptive charging by dynamically aligning voltage with the battery’s needs, reducing heat and improving stability. Previously capped at 55W, PPS has now reached 100W thanks to dual-cell series designs. It also lowers costs by leveraging standard PD chargers and USB-C 5A cables without additional hardware.

Tests on the Redmi Turbo 5 Max (9000mAh) show that third-party PPS chargers charge nearly as fast as official 100W Xiaomi chargers. While official chargers charge slightly faster initially, PPS maintains steadier power delivery, with overall differences under 10 minutes. Average power reaches 70–80W, comparable to proprietary protocols.

Public fast charging increases cross-brand convenience, avoids extra hardware, and complements proprietary solutions. In 2026, adopting PPS and similar standards will benefit both users and manufacturers in performance, compatibility, and cost-efficiency.

Bottom line: High-power public fast charging is poised to become the new standard for smartphones.