IKEA has announced the launch of desks, bedside tables and lamps that will wirelessly charge phones and other devices.
The new collection will use Qi wireless technology to charge devices that are placed on or near the furniture. The range of high-tech furniture is to be released in stores across Europe and North America in April, with a worldwide release set for a later date.
“Through research and home visits, we know that people hate cable mess,” according to IKEA’s business area manager of lighting and wireless charging, Jeanette Skjelmose.
“They worry about not finding the charger and running out of power. Our new innovative solutions, which integrate wireless charging into home furnishings, will make life at home simpler.”
In January IKEA reported annual profits of $3.74bn (3.33bn euros) for 2014 – unchanged from the year before. They are hoping this embrace of the digital-age will increase their reach and profits. IKEA is the world’s largest furniture retailer; employing 147,000 people worldwide.
Here’s some IKEA fun for you while we wait for our phones to charge;
