The annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas is known for hype, but this year, one company stands out: Willo, a Finnish deep-tech startup, unveiled a wireless power demonstration that could fundamentally change how we charge devices. The company’s technology promises to eliminate charging cables entirely, a goal that has eluded the industry for years.
The Problem with Existing Wireless Charging
Current wireless charging solutions require precise alignment between a device and a charging pad, often making them less convenient than traditional cables. This limitation stems from the physics of inductive charging, which demands close proximity and accurate positioning. Willo claims to have overcome this barrier with a new approach that doesn’t rely on pads, line of sight, or even immediate proximity.
How Willo’s Tech Works
Willo’s system allows devices to charge simply by being within range of a power source, described as a “force field.” In a demo witnessed by reporters at CES 2026, the company demonstrated charging multiple devices simultaneously, even while they were rotated at various angles. The technology is based on over a decade of research led by co-founder and CTO Nam Ha-Van, who claims several world firsts in wireless power transmission.
Real-World Implications
The vision for Willo’s technology extends beyond simple convenience. The company imagines a future where power transmitters are seamlessly integrated into homes and offices, allowing devices to charge passively without user intervention. Imagine a laptop charging while you move freely around a room, or a phone charging in your pocket while you watch TV.
“We want to do to power cables what floppy disks are to us today—remnants of the past.” – Marko Voutilainen, Willo co-founder and President.
Industrialization and Partnerships
Willo is now seeking partnerships to scale its technology. The company is open to adopting a strategy similar to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, implying an open standard rather than a proprietary ecosystem. CEO Hari Santamala states that the technology is “pretty ready” for industrialization, but deployment hinges on partners’ use cases and timelines.
The key takeaway: Willo’s wireless power technology has the potential to disrupt the charging industry, offering a truly cable-free experience that has long been sought after. If successful, this could mark a significant step toward a future where power cords are obsolete.
