Why don't we use wireless electricity?

Wireless electricity, like the technology behind wireless phone chargers, has limitations that currently prevent its wide adoption for more extensive applications. Here are some key reasons:

1. Efficiency and Distance: Wireless power transfer typically becomes less efficient as the distance increases. Smartphone chargers are designed for very short distances (a few centimeters), but transferring power over larger distances without significant energy loss is challenging.

2. Power Levels: Wireless charging technologies used for phones transfer relatively low power, which is sufficient for small devices but impractical for high-power applications like home appliances, industrial machines, or electric vehicles.

3. Infrastructure: The current power grid and most electrical devices are designed for wired electricity. Transitioning to a widespread wireless system would require massive changes in infrastructure, which are costly and complex.

4. Safety Concerns: High-power wireless transmission can pose safety risks, including potential health impacts from long-term exposure to electromagnetic fields. Ensuring safety standards for widespread use would be a significant hurdle.

5. Interference: Wireless power systems can interfere with other wireless communications and electronic devices. Ensuring that wireless electricity doesn’t disrupt other signals would require rigorous testing and standards.

6. Technological Development: While the technology for wireless power transfer is advancing, it is still in relatively early stages for larger-scale applications. More research and development is needed to make it viable for everyday use.

Despite these challenges, innovations continue. Engineers and scientists are working on improving the efficiency, range, and safety of wireless electricity, potentially paving the way for broader applications in the future.