Apple is reportedly working with partners in the U.S. and Asia to develop new wireless charging technology that could be deployed on its mobile devices by 2017. Broadcom and Qualcomm are among those who have developed or are developing technology and standards for wireless charging.

Blomberg reports that Apple is exploring new technologies that would allow iPhones and iPads to be powered from further away than the charging mats used with current smartphones. The iPhone maker is looking to overcome technical barriers including loss of power over distance with a decision on implementing the technology still being assessed, Bloomberg's unnamed spurces added.

Samsung Electronics, Sony and Google are among Apple's rivals that have released wirelessly-charged smartphones that still require proximity to a charging plate.

Apple currently uses a technique called induction, to charge its Watch within millimeters of the power source.