Can You Charge an iPhone with Another iPhone? (Explained & How-to)

You're out with friends, laughing, snapping photos, and then—uh oh—your iPhone battery is about to die. In that moment, you might be asking yourself: “Can you charge an iPhone with another iPhone?” It sounds pretty handy, right? Imagine if your friend's phone could double as a power bank.

In this guide, we'll break down whether iPhone-to-iPhone charging is actually possible, which models (if any) support it, and the pros and cons you should know. We'll also share smarter alternatives so you never get caught powerless when you're on the go. Let's get started!

Can an iPhone Charge Another iPhone?

Yes, you can charge one iPhone with another iPhone, but only with certain models and using a wired connection. That means you can't charge an iPhone to an iPhone wirelessly.

Apple switched the iPhone 15 and later models from a Lightning port to a USB-C port. This change makes power sharing between two iPhones possible. Once connected, the iPhone with the higher battery percentage will act as the power source, and the one with the lower charge will receive the power.

Which iPhones Support Battery Sharing?

Right now, only the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 series support battery sharing. Thanks to their USB-C ports, these models allow a direct connection so that iPhones can charge each other without the need for bulky accessories. If you and a friend both have one of these devices, you can simply plug them in together and share power on the spot.

Even better, the iPhone 15 and 16 can charge older iPhones with Lightning ports by using a USB-C to Lightning cable. They also work with other gadgets that support USB-C charging, making them surprisingly versatile. With this feature, your iPhone can double as a mini power bank whenever you need a quick boost on the go.

How to Charge an iPhone with an iPhone?

Now you know that with the iPhone 15 and 16 series, you can share battery power directly using a USB-C cable. Let's break down how it works and what you'll need.

Step 1. Check for Compatibility

First, make sure the iPhone you want to use as the charger is an iPhone 15 or newer. These are currently the only models that support reverse charging. Older iPhones with a Lightning port cannot be used as a power bank to charge other devices.

Step 2. Select the Right Cable

If you're charging another iPhone 15 (or later), use a USB-C to USB-C cable. If you're charging an older iPhone with a Lightning port, you'll need a USB-C to Lightning cable instead.

Step 3. Connect the iPhones

Simply connect the two iPhones with the appropriate cable. The charging process will start automatically, no extra settings required. The iPhone with the higher battery percentage will automatically act as the power source, while the other begins charging.

Pros and Cons of iPhone-to-iPhone Charging

While the idea of charging one iPhone with another iPhone sounds convenient, the reality is more complicated. Let's break down the potential benefits and drawbacks of iPhone-to-iPhone charging.

Pros

• Emergency Power: When no other power source is available, you can still use a friend's phone to charge your iPhone. This is especially helpful when you need to make calls or use navigation apps on the go.
• Fewer Accessories: It eliminates the need to carry an external power bank or search for a wall outlet for small power top-ups. You can use an existing device to help another device.
• Universal Compatibility: You can charge not only other iPhones but also a wide range of devices that use a USB-C cable, including many AirPods or Apple Watches.

Cons

• Slow Charging Speed: The limited 4.5-watt charging power is significantly slower than standard fast charging, which can be 20 watts or more. You'll wait a long time to see a noticeable battery boost on the receiving device.
• Limited to New Models: The feature is only available on iPhones with a USB-C port. That is, the iPhone 15 series and later. This limits its use as a universal solution among iPhone users.
• Battery Drain on the Powering Phone: It will drain the battery of the iPhone that is acting as the power source. Using this feature frequently or for extended periods will reduce your own phone's battery life. For example, fully charging an Apple Watch can drain an iPhone's battery by 20-25%.

Better Alternatives to Battery Sharing on iPhone

While iPhones can charge each other, iPhone-to-iPhone charging isn't the most efficient solution. It's slower, drains one device to power another, and isn't always practical on the go. If you're heading out on a trip or just want peace of mind, there are smarter options to keep your iPhone powered. Broadly, you can choose between wireless power banks or compact chargers.

1. Use A MagSafe-Compatible Wireless Power Bank

A reliable power bank is still one of the best ways to keep your iPhone charged. MagSafe-compatible models make the process seamless by using magnetic rings to align perfectly with your phone's charging coil for efficient wireless charging.

One great option is the Anker Nano Power Bank (5K, MagGo, Slim). At just 0.3 inches thick, similar to an Apple Pencil, it's slim enough to slip into your pocket. Despite its size, it supports 15W MagSafe fast charging, getting an iPhone 16 from 0% to 25% in about 42 minutes. Prefer cables? Its USB-C port delivers up to 20W wired output, giving you flexibility and reduced charging time.

2. Use A Compact Charger

If charging speed matters most, a compact charger is an excellent travel companion. Unlike bulky traditional chargers, the Anker Nano Charger (45W) is 33% smaller and includes foldable plugs, making it pocket-friendly at just 2.11 ounces.

Don't be fooled by its size. The Nano Charger can deliver up to 45W output, a huge leap compared to the 4.5W limit of iPhone-to-iPhone charging. With GaN and ActiveShield technology, it not only charges faster but also keeps your device safe by preventing overheating and stress on internal components.

Conclusion

So, can you charge an iPhone with another iPhone? Yes, you can, but you are limited to certain models via the USB-C connection. But if you want more efficient, convenient power solutions, consider reliable alternatives like MagSafe-compatible power banks or a compact charger. Overwhelmed by so many options? Trust Anker, the global leader in mobile charging, to keep your iPhone powered on the go!

FAQs

Can I wirelessly charge my iPhone with another iPhone?

No, iPhones do not support wireless reverse charging at this time. While some Android devices allow wireless phone-to-phone charging, Apple has not enabled this feature.

Currently, iPhone-to-iPhone charging is only possible with a wired USB-C connection on the iPhone 15 series and newer models. Older iPhones with Lightning ports cannot act as a power bank.

How do I turn on battery sharing?

There's no manual setting for battery sharing on iPhones—the feature works automatically. If you connect two devices with a USB-C to USB-C cable (or USB-C to Lightning for older models), the iPhone 15 or later with the higher battery percentage will instantly start charging the other phone without extra steps. It's seamless, quick, and requires no configuration.

Can you plug an iPhone into another iPhone?

Yes, you can directly connect one iPhone to another. Using a USB-C to USB-C cable, two iPhone 15 or newer models can share battery power. If you need to charge an older iPhone with a Lightning port, you'll need a USB-C to Lightning cable instead. Once connected, the charging begins automatically, making the process simple and hassle-free.

Does the iPhone have power sharing?

Yes, but only on the iPhone 15 series and newer models. These devices allow power sharing through their USB-C port, letting you charge another iPhone or compatible device. However, iPhones still do not support wireless reverse charging, so you'll always need a cable.