We’ve got wireless phones. Wireless internet. Wireless peripherals (keyboard and mouse). There’s even wireless HDMI for transmitting audio/video to a properly equipped TV. But one cord just can’t seem to be cut: the power cord.

Wireless power has been talked (and fantasized) about for decades, but there’s been a lot of hype and very little to show for it. A couple days ago, though, Intel actually demonstrated a working model of a wireless power system. So far, it can transmit 60 watts up to three feet with 75% efficiency. There’s a lot of work to be done before it gets anywhere close to consumer-friendly, but the fact that it has now been seen to be functioning is a huge step.

Imagine how fantastic it will be to buy a new TV or computer and not have to connect a single cable. All-in-one computers like the iMac are already very close — if you use WiFi for your net connection and get a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse, today’s iMac already is down to a single cord. If wireless power one day makes it mainstream, setup of your computer will involve nothing more than just setting it on the table and pressing a button.

More at NY Times.