Rumors have suggested Apple is exploring wireless charging as a feature to be included in the 2017 iPhone, and a new report from Taiwanese site Economic Daily News [Google Translate] suggests Apple has begun seeking suppliers for wireless charging components. Apple is said to have asked semiconductor company MediaTek to send chip samples for inclusion in a "dedicated wireless charging back cover."

Based on the wording of the report, it's unclear if Apple is working on wireless charging built into the next-generation iPhone or a wireless charging case that would be used alongside the next-generation iPhone for wireless charging purposes, but DigiTimes says the report refers to "peripherals" like iPhone cases to "try out" wireless charging.

An example of extended-range wireless charging from Energous, a company Apple could potentially be working with

Previous rumors have suggested Apple is exploring long-range wireless charging as a feature that could potentially be included in iPhones as soon as 2017. Long-range wireless charging is superior to many existing wireless charging methods because it does not require devices to be as close to a charging source or mat.

Apple has also been hiring engineers with expertise in wireless charging in recent months, confirming a definite interest in wireless charging technology.

Wireless charging, whether implemented through a case or built directly into the iPhone, is just one of the many impressive features rumored for the 2017 iPhone, which is the 10th anniversary iPhone. The device is expected to feature a complete design overhaul with a glass body and an edge-to-edge display, along with advanced biometric features like iris scanning and an enhanced Taptic engine to make up for the elimination of the Home button.