Wireless charging has become very popular in the smartphone space recently, with companies like Nokia, LG and HTC offering handsets that can be wirelessly charged. Recent rumors indicate that iPhones slated for a 2013 launch may also pack in wireless-charging capabilities.

DigiTimes cites industry sources and reports "Apple is likely to adopt the wireless charging technology developed internally, but it remains unknown if the next-generation iPhone will come with built-in wireless charging capability or with other attached accessories, said the sources."

Current handsets capable of wireless charging use Qi Inductive technology; however, Apple may not use the same technology.

Apple Senior VP Phil Schiller modulated the possibility of iPhones using wireless charging: "As for wireless charging, Schiller notes that the wireless charging systems still have to be plugged into the wall, so it's not clear how much convenience they add. The widely-adopted USB cord, meanwhile, can charge in wall outlets, computers and even on airplanes, he said," reported AllThingsD in September 2012.

DigiTimes also reports that the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S4 may also get wireless charging using Qi inductive technology. The Galaxy S4, which is expected to make its appearance on March 14, may not come with embedded wireless charging capability but users may be required to buy replacement back covers for their smartphones for access to a charging pad.

Wireless charging came to light when Nokia announced that its Lumia 920 and Lumia 820 can be charged wirelessly using a charging plate. Similarly, LG Nexus 4 has also got a wireless charging orb to charge the handset.

Wireless charging seems to be one of the key features being adopted by upcoming smartphones and not surprisingly, companies like Samsung and Apple will want to offer the wireless charging feature on its future smartphones to keep pace with the market trends and attract more customers.