Wireless charging tech could expand to laptops

The wireless technology that lets people power up their smartphones and tablets is now being envisioned for laptops.

The Alliance for Wireless Power says it is introducing a new version of its Rezence charging technology that would let people power devices from 20 to 50 watts, including laptops, Ultrabooks and small appliances, without a cord.

The nonprofit alliance has also taken on a new member. Dell becomes the first major PC manufacturer to join the wireless power standards initiative.

It’s a coup for the alliance, which last week reached an agreement with the Power Matters Alliance so that both would work jointly to accelerate growth of the wireless charging market.