GM has filed a patent application for a vehicle seatback with an integrated wireless device charging pocket. The filing was made under patent number US 2025/0178549 A1 with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), and was submitted on December 4th, 2023. The filing was published on June 5th, 2025, and lists several engineers as the inventors, including Minsu Lee, Jongseong Choi, Dongwon Kim, Heewon Lee, and Jongsuk An.
The patent describes a seatback pocket with wireless charging capabilities that combines a slim compartment, which is traditionally used for storing small items like books or maps, with a built-in wireless charging module that can recharge a user’s electronic device, such as a smartphone or tablet, all without the need for a cable. The system is designed to work using magnetic induction, allowing energy to transfer from the charging module to the device when the device is placed inside the pocket.
This proposed GM system can potentially improve both storage and charging convenience. The charging module is located between the front and rear sections of the seatback, while the pocket is positioned on the rear side of the seat, facing the back seat passenger. This allows a user to place their phone or tablet directly into the pocket, which will automatically allow the device to begin charging wirelessly. Some versions of the design even allow the pocket to move up and down or forward and back to better accommodate the device or improve visibility and access. The pocket can also be made from flexible materials to adjust to various device sizes and may include features like illumination indicators or retaining ledges to keep the device in place.
Compared to current systems, which often require placing a device on a flat charging pad (typically on the center console), this GM seatback solution adds charging functionality to a space that’s already underused, especially in modern cars where map pockets are less needed.
By integrating the charging module into the seatback pocket, the design saves space and adds value without cluttering the cabin. This can be particularly useful for users with children or frequent backseat riders who want to store and charge a device while keeping it easily accessible.
Comments
That feature is very easy to add in any car. Just insert a charging pad into the backs, and string the USB cable to the charge port in the rear console between the front seats. My hybrid Ford has a 120 VAC outlet, too, for the rear passengers who cannot use a wireless charger.
I’m sorry but this just adds to “kids” thinking it’s OK to use a cell phone while inside a vehicle. This type of “training” is why every other person on the road driving is on their phones with people dying every single day from distracted driving. Start young and teach your kids that cell phones in cars is a bad thing. The invention I’d be happy seeing is a cell phone BLOCKER in every single vehicle new or otherwise. There is absolutely NO excuse for propagating a habit that could eventually kill someone. What if it was your kid, wife or loved one who died. Cell phones are a complete plague. They offer absolutely nothing positive to anyone’s life. NOTHING.
Passenger?
What happens when a kid spills the contents of a juice box into the pocket? Won’t that electrocute the driver? Just asking.
Seems to me cars were much more affordable and enjoyable when you drove them yourselves with a dependable power train, ac, power steering/brakes, a good sound system, and needed safety equipment. Now an over complicated and overpriced rolling computer. JMO.